What to Bring to the Arizona DMV for Your Permit Test
Don't get sent home. Here's the complete checklist — documents, fees, forms, and what to leave at home.
Before You Go
- →Make an appointment online to skip the long lines
- →Fill out the application form online or print it ahead of time
- →Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in
- →Bring your study guide or practice test questions to review while waiting
- →Double-check that all documents are originals, not photocopies
- →Make sure your eyes are rested before the vision test
- →Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
Required Documents
Proof of Identity (Primary Document)
- ✓U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- ✓Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
- ✓Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- ✓Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- ✓Valid Foreign Passport with I-94
You must bring the original document; photocopies are not accepted. If you want a REAL ID, make sure your birth certificate or passport is current and unaltered.
Proof of Social Security Number
- ✓Social Security Card
- ✓W-2 Form with full SSN
- ✓Paystub with full SSN
- ✓SSA-1099 Form
- ✓Non-SSA-1099 Form
Arizona requires proof of your SSN. If you don't have a card, bring a W-2 or paystub. If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are ineligible.
Proof of Arizona Residency
Bring 2 of these:
- ✓Utility bill (electric, water, gas) in your name or parent's name
- ✓Bank statement
- ✓Arizona vehicle registration
- ✓Arizona vehicle title
- ✓Rental or lease agreement
- ✓School transcript or report card
For a standard license, one document is usually enough, but for a REAL ID, you typically need two different documents showing your Arizona address. The address must match exactly.
Parental / Guardian Consent (applicants under 18)
- ✓Parent or legal guardian must sign the application in person at the MVD office
- ✓If a parent cannot appear, a notarized Form 96-0236 (Affidavit of Identity) may be required in specific cases
- ✓Legal guardians must bring court documents proving guardianship
- ✓Foster parents must bring specific agency documentation
One parent or guardian must be present to sign. If you are a foster child, the agency representative must sign. Single parents just need to show up; no extra forms are needed unless there is a custody dispute.
Fees & Payment
$25
This fee covers the learner's permit. It is valid for 12 months. If you fail the vision or written test, there is a small re-test fee, but you don't pay the full $25 again immediately.
Accepted payment:
Forms
Application for Driver License or Identification Card (Form 96-0236)
Available at: Arizona MVD office or downloadable from azdot.gov
Do not sign this form until you are standing in front of the MVD agent. If you sign it at home, they will make you sign it again anyway.
What NOT to Bring
- ✗Your cell phone (you'll be asked to turn it off or put it away during the test)
- ✗Large bags or backpacks (storage is limited)
- ✗Friends or siblings (they can't wait inside with you)
- ✗Food or drinks
- ✗Your own pen (use the one provided)
- ✗Expensive jewelry or electronics
- ✗Pets (unless they are service animals)
At the Office
- →The written test is computer-based and multiple choice
- →You get 3 attempts to pass the written test; if you fail, you must wait 24 hours to try again
- →You will take a vision screening right at the counter
- →Once you pass, you'll get an interim permit valid for 12 months
- →Your official plastic card will arrive by mail in about 2-3 weeks
Official Arizona Motor Vehicle Division info: azdot.gov/motor-vehicles
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