How to Get Your Driver's License in Arizona
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Arizona. Arizona uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 16.5.
GDL Stages in Arizona
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat
Intermediate License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 5 months
- Pass road skills test
- Complete 30 hours of supervised driving including 10 at night
Restrictions
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for first 6 months
- No more than 1 passenger under 18 who is not immediate family
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold intermediate license for 6 months with no at-fault accidents or violations
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first 6 months unless traveling for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 passenger under 18 who is not an immediate family member is allowed during the intermediate period.
How restrictions lift: Night and passenger restrictions lift after 6 months of violation-free driving or when the driver turns 18.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older bypass the GDL program and can apply for a full Class D license after passing written and road tests.
Arizona-Specific Information
Arizona issues a graduated license that does not expire until the driver turns 65, one of the longest license validity periods in the nation. The GDL passenger restriction specifically targets non-family passengers under 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 16.5 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Arizona.
Arizona uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first 6 months unless traveling for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 passenger under 18 who is not an immediate family member is allowed during the intermediate period.
Adults age 18 and older in Arizona can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older bypass the GDL program and can apply for a full Class D license after passing written and road tests.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Arizona learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Arizona.
Arizona drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) website for the most current information.