Arizona drivers have long enjoyed some of the most relaxed license renewal requirements in the nation, but recent changes and growing public safety concerns have brought this system under new scrutiny. Here’s what you need to know about the current—and evolving—rules for renewing your driver’s license in Arizona.
How Arizona’s Renewal System Works
Arizona’s driver’s license renewal process is unique. For decades, standard driver’s licenses issued to adults under 65 were valid until the driver turned 65, with no need for renewal in between. After age 65, drivers are required to renew every five years, and this process includes a vision test at each renewal.
For those under 65, the only mandatory update is a new photo every 12 years. If you fail to update your photo, your license remains valid, but you cannot replace a lost ID or access certain services until you do.
Travel ID Exception
Arizona also issues the Travel ID (REAL ID-compliant license), which must be renewed every eight years, regardless of age. This federal requirement supersedes state law for those who choose the Travel ID.
Renewal Requirements: What You Need
To renew your driver’s license in Arizona, you must:
- Complete a driver license application
- Have a new photo taken (if required)
- Pass a vision test (mandatory for drivers over 65)
- Pay the renewal fee ($10 for a standard license, $25 for Travel ID)
You’ll also need to bring:
- One document proving citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
- Two documents proving your mailing address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
Testing and Re-Examination
While a vision test is required at every renewal for those over 65, a written or road test is generally not required unless there is a specific concern about your driving ability. However, the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) can require a re-examination if your application or driving record raises red flags, or if a family member, medical professional, or law enforcement officer reports concerns about your fitness to drive.
A re-examination may include:
- Evaluation by an MVD Driver Safety hearing officer
- Vision test
- Written test
- Road test
If you fail a required re-examination, your license may be restricted, suspended, or revoked.
Penalties for Driving on an Expired License
Arizona does not offer a grace period for expired licenses. If you are caught driving with an expired license, you could face:
- A traffic ticket (minimum $120 fine)
- Up to a Class 2 misdemeanor charge, which carries a maximum of four months in jail, a $750 fine, and up to two years of probation
Public Safety Concerns and Calls for Change
Arizona’s decades-long renewal intervals have sparked concern among safety advocates and the public. Critics argue that drivers can go decades without being retested on road rules or vision, potentially increasing risks on the road—especially as people age. Some driving instructors and transportation experts are calling for more frequent renewals and periodic testing to ensure drivers remain competent and up-to-date on traffic laws.
“I believe that every so often, people should be retested,” said Holly Thompson, a Valley Lyft driver. “No one seems to know the rules of the road. I feel very unsafe.”
Despite these concerns, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) maintains that it must follow current state law, and any changes would require legislative action.
What’s Next for Arizona Drivers?
While there is growing momentum for reform, no legislative changes have been enacted as of May 2025. For now, Arizona drivers should be aware of the current requirements and ensure they renew their licenses on time—especially if they are approaching age 65 or plan to use their license for federal identification purposes after May 7, 2025, when only the Travel ID, U.S. passport, or other federally approved IDs will be accepted for certain uses.
Key Takeaways
- Most drivers under 65 only need to update their photo every 12 years; full renewal is required at 65.
- After 65, renew every five years with a vision test.
- Travel ID (REAL ID) must be renewed every eight years.
- No grace period for expired licenses—penalties can be severe.
- Calls for more frequent renewals and testing are increasing, but changes would require new legislation.
Stay informed and proactive to avoid penalties and help keep Arizona’s roads safe.
Sources:
- https://azdot.gov/mvd/services/driver-services/driver-license-information/renew-your-license
- https://www.abc15.com/news/operation-safe-roads/drivers-concerned-arizona-licenses-dont-expire-for-decades
- https://www.lawforseniors.org/topics/civil-law/civil-traffic/senior-driver-license
- https://zutobi.com/us/az-car/driver-guides/arizona-drivers-license-renewal
- https://azdot.gov/mvd/services/driver-services/driver-license-application
