Welcome to the Grand Canyon State. You have officially moved here.
Arizona law requires you to transfer your driver’s license immediately upon establishing residency (e.g., accepting a job, enrolling kids in school, or registering to vote).
Unlike other states that give you 30 days, Arizona expects you to visit the MVD as soon as possible. The good news? You likely won’t need to take a driving test.
This guide explains the choice between the Standard License (which lasts for decades) and the Travel ID (which you need to fly), and how to verify your documents before you go.
Arizona Standard License vs Travel ID: Lifetime Until 65 vs 8-Year Real ID
Before you visit the office, you must choose your card type. This affects your documents and your expiration date.
Option A: The Arizona Travel ID (Gold Star)
- Best For: People who fly domestically or visit military bases.
- Expiration: Valid for 8 Years.
- Deadline: Mandatory for flying after May 7, 2025.
- Cost: $25.00.
Option B: The Standard Arizona License
- Best For: People who have a Passport for flying and want a license that lasts forever.
- Expiration: Valid until Age 65. (You only need to update your photo every 12 years).
- Cost: $10–$25 (Based on age).
- Restriction: Says “NOT FOR FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION.”
Step-by-Step Arizona Out-of-State License Transfer (AZ MVD Now + Vision Test)
Step 1: Start Online (AZ MVD Now) Save 20 minutes by filling out the Driver License Application online at AZ MVD Now before you leave your house.
Step 2: Visit an Office
- State-Run MVD: Lower fees, longer lines. We strongly recommend booking a slot using our Arizona MVD appointment guide.
- Authorized Third Party (ATP): Fast service, but they charge a “Convenience Fee” (usually $20–$50 extra).
Step 3: The Vision Test You will not need to take a written or road test if your out-of-state license is valid. However, you must pass a vision screening (20/40 acuity required). Bring your glasses!
Step 4: Surrender Your Old Card Arizona does not allow you to hold two licenses. The agent will punch a hole in your old card and return it to you (or take it entirely).
Arizona License Transfer Documents: Identity, SSN, Residency Proof Checklist
You cannot do this online. You must visit an MVD or Authorized Third Party office.
For a Travel ID (Real ID), bring:
- Proof of Identity: (One document: Birth Certificate or Unexpired Passport).
- Proof of SSN: (One document: Social Security Card or W-2 form).
- Proof of Residency: (Two documents: Utility bill, Bank statement, or Lease agreement with your AZ address).
- Note: If you recently changed your Arizona address, ensure your documents match the new one.
For a Standard License, bring:
- Proof of Identity: (Birth Certificate/Passport).
- Proof of SSN: (Social Security Card).
- One Proof of Residency.
Tip: Do not rely on digital copies. Bring physical, printed papers.
Arizona License Fee Schedule 2026
Arizona fees are based on your age, unless you choose the Travel ID (which is a flat fee).
| Age Group | Standard License Fee | Travel ID Fee |
| 16 – 39 | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| 40 – 44 | $20.00 | $25.00 |
| 45 – 49 | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| 50+ | $10.00 | $25.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It is illegal to hold valid licenses from two states simultaneously.
Arizona will not issue you a license. You must clear the hold in your previous state first. See our guide on reinstating a suspended license for how to check your status on the national registry.
Yes. You usually have 15 days to register your car. If you don’t have plates yet, you might need an Arizona Temporary Tag to drive legally while you wait for your title transfer.
Yes. Arizona is part of the “Driver License Compact.” If you had points or a DUI in your old state, they may transfer over. You can check your Arizona license points a few weeks after the transfer to see if anything carried over.
Conclusion
The process is simple: Documents + Vision Test = New License. The hardest part is deciding between the Standard License (lasts forever, but can’t fly) and the Travel ID (expires in 8 years, but flies). If you have a passport, save money and get the Standard License—it’s one of the few licenses in America that won’t expire until you retire.
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