Driver License Renewal in Arizona for Older Adults
In Arizona, when a person over the age of 60 successfully applies for or renews their driver license, it will be valid for 5 years. For those under the age of 60, a driver’s license is valid until they turn 65 years of age. Arizona drivers over the age of 65 must apply for a duplicate license every five years. A vision exam is required at each reapplication. A.R.S § 28-3171
How far in advance can I renew my driver license?
Where do I renew my driver license?
Arizona drivers over the age of 65 must apply for a duplicate license every five years. A vision exam is required at each reapplication.
What do I need to bring with me to renew my driver license?
To renew a driver license, bring:
- 1 document that proves citizenship, and
- 2 documents to prove the mailing address.
These documents may be:
- Birth certificate,
- Passport or passport card,
- Social Security card
- Green card,
- Current driver license,
- Voter registration card,
- Water or utility bill,
- Bank statement, etc.
What do I need to complete to renew my license?
To renew a driver license, you must;
- Complete a driver license application
- Have a picture taken
- Pay the required fee
- Pass an eye test A.R.S. § 28-3158
Can I wear my glasses or contacts for the eye test?
Yes. The vision test may be taken wearing glasses or contacts. If the applicant forgets their glasses they may still take the eye test, but if they do not pass the test, they may:
- Be asked to come back another day with their glasses,
- Have their license may say that they need to wear glasses or contacts when driving, or
- Have their license restricted, suspended, or revoked. A.A.C. R17-4-503
Do I have to pay to renew my license?
Yes, there is a fee. The fee for a traditional driver license is $10.00. The fee for a Travel ID driver license is $25.00. All Arizona MVD offices accept credit cards, cash, or money orders. A.R.S. § 28-3002
Do I have to retake a driving test?
Maybe. An MVD employee may require the driver to complete a driving test. This may happen because of information provided in the renewal application or because of a driving record.
They may also request a re-examination if a family member, emergency medical technician, or police officer informs them that the driver’s ability to drive is in question due to their physical or medical condition. A.R.S. § 28-3171
What does a re-examination look like?
The re-examination may involve:
- An evaluation by a MVD Driver Safety hearing officer,
- A vision test,
- A written test, and
- A driving test.
If a driver is asked to complete a written test or a road test, that person may enroll in a driver’s education program or driving school before taking the MVD’s tests.
If the driver does not successfully complete the re-examination, the MVD can restrict, suspend, or revoke (take away) the person’s driving privileges. A.A.C. R17-4-502
Can I upgrade my old driver license to a Travel ID driver license?
Yes. When checking in at the MVD, let the employee know if a traditional or Travel ID driver license is needed. There is a different fee for the Travel ID license.
What happens if I drive on an expired license?
Driving on an expired license is a class 2 misdemeanor. A.R.S. § 28-3478 A person found guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor may receive:
- A fine up to $750,
- Up to 4 months in jail,
- Up to 2 years of probation,
- Community service. (AOC Criminal Sentencing Chart 2023-2024)
