Arizona graduated driver licence stages

By the end of this topic you can

• You can name the three stages of Arizona's graduated licensing system.
• You can state the minimum ages for the permit and the Class G license.
• You can explain who may supervise you while you hold a permit.
• You can list the limits that apply during the first six months of a Class G license.
• You can explain how adults 18 and over move through the system differently.

What you need to know and understand

• You can apply for an instruction permit at 15 years and 6 months.
• The instruction permit is valid for 12 months.
• A permit driver must have a licensed driver aged 21 or over (Class A, B, C or D) in the seat beside them.
• Teens must hold the permit for at least six months before applying for a Class G license, which is available from age 16.
• The six-month clock starts when the permit is issued in an office, not when you pass the test.
• Class G limits on night driving, passengers and phones apply for the first six months and end at 18.

Stage one: the instruction permit

The permit lets you learn on public roads under supervision. Your supervisor must be at least 21, hold a Class A, B, C or D license and sit next to you. You must carry the permit whenever you drive.

Permit holders may not use a phone or other wireless device while driving, except in an emergency when stopping would be unsafe.

Stage two: the Class G license

Once you are 16, have held your permit for six months and have met a driving practice or driver education option, you can apply for a Class G license. For the first six months you face three limits.

• No driving between midnight and 5 a.m., unless a parent or legal guardian with a Class A, B, C or D license sits beside you, or you are driving directly to or from school activities, work, religious activities or a family emergency.
• No more than one passenger under 18, unless they are your brothers or sisters, or a parent or guardian with a license sits beside you.
• No use of a wireless device while driving, except in an emergency or for audible turn-by-turn navigation that you set up before moving.

Stage three: the full Class D license

At 18 the Class G limits end. ADOT says you do not have to visit an office to switch to Class D: ordering a replacement license through AZ MVD Now changes the class.

Adults learning for the first time must pass the same knowledge test before booking a road test. They can practice on an operator permit with a supervisor aged 21 or over, and the six-month holding period does not apply to them. Our guide to getting a first license as an adult covers this in more depth.

What happens if you break a Class G limit

Police cannot stop you only for a Class G limit; they need another reason. If you are cited, a first violation can bring a civil penalty of up to $75 and adds 30 days to your restrictions. A second adds 60 days, and a third leads to a 30-day suspension.

Common mistakes

• Assuming the six months start when you pass the knowledge test. They start when the permit is issued in an office.
• Driving with an 18-year-old friend as supervisor. The supervisor must be at least 21 and fully licensed.
• Giving lifts to several school friends in the first six months of a Class G license. Only one passenger under 18 is allowed unless they are siblings.
• Letting a permit expire. It lasts 12 months, so plan your practice and road test in time.

Test yourself: Arizona graduated driver licence stages

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

Go deeper

• Arizona Class G License Restrictions
• Arizona Permit Test
• Arizona Permit Practice Test