Getting your Arizona learner permit

By the end of this topic you can

• You can check whether you are old enough to apply.
• You can gather the documents MVD asks for.
• You can explain how parent or guardian consent works for under-18 applicants.
• You can describe the vision standard and what happens if you need glasses.
• You can choose between taking the knowledge test at home or in an office.

What you need to know and understand

• The minimum age is 15 years and 6 months.
• The permit fee on ADOT's fee page is $7; always check current fees before you go.
• Under-18 applicants need a parent or guardian's signature, witnessed by an MVD agent or a notary public.
• The vision screening and photo must be done in an MVD office or Authorized Third Party office.
• Uncorrected vision of 20/40 or better in at least one eye is needed for a license without a glasses restriction.
• The permit is valid for 12 months.
• Permit holders may not use a wireless device while driving, except in an emergency.

Documents to bring

Every applicant must prove identity and that their presence in the United States is authorized under federal law, and must show proof of Arizona residency. If you want a Travel ID (Arizona's REAL ID-compliant card), you need two residency documents. MVD's online document guide lists what is accepted.

Parent or guardian consent

If you are under 18, an adult with legal responsibility for you must sign the application. Who signs depends on custody: one parent if your parents are married, both if they are unmarried with joint custody, or a legal guardian where neither parent has custody. The signature must be witnessed by MVD staff or notarized, and it will be needed again when you apply for your license.

Step by step to your permit

1. Study the Arizona Driver License Manual and try ADOT's online practice tests.
2. Take the knowledge test. Teens under 18 can take it at home through a parent's AZ MVD Now account or a participating driving school, with the parent supervising.
3. Visit an MVD office or Authorized Third Party office with your documents and the signed consent.
4. Pass the vision screening and have your photo taken.
5. Pay the fee and receive your permit. Your six-month holding period starts now.

If you need glasses

If you cannot read the chart to the 20/40 standard without glasses or contact lenses, you can still be licensed, but your card will carry a restriction meaning you must wear them whenever you drive.

Common mistakes

• Bringing photocopies instead of the original documents MVD asks for. Check the document list first.
• Turning up without the parent who needs to sign, or without a notarized signature.
• Forgetting your glasses or contacts for the vision screening if you normally wear them.
• Thinking the at-home test gives you a permit. You still have to visit an office for the vision check, photo and permit.

Test yourself: Getting your Arizona learner permit

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Getting Your First Arizona Driver’s License as an Adult
• Arizona Permit Test
• Arizona Permit Practice Test