If you have a foreign driver license and need an Arizona driver license or ID card, 1 Stop Motor Vehicle can help eligible foreign applicants navigate the Arizona MVD process. Whether you’re applying for an Arizona driver license with a foreign license, need an Arizona ID for a non-U.S. citizen or want to understand the identification, residency and testing requirements for foreign applicants, knowing what documents to bring can make the process much easier. At participating 1 Stop Motor Vehicle locations, we provide eligible driver license and identification services as an Authorized Third Party MVD provider.
Can I Drive in Arizona With a Foreign Driver License?
If you are visiting Arizona temporarily, you may legally drive with a valid driver license issued by another country. Arizona does not require an International Driving Permit, although MVD recommends one because it can provide an English-language version of your driving information. Arizona Department of Transportation
However, the requirements change if you become an Arizona resident.
Arizona generally requires you to obtain an Arizona driver license if you work in the state, remain in Arizona for seven months or more during a calendar year, operate certain businesses in the state or meet other residency requirements. Arizona Department of Transportation
Can a Foreign Applicant Get an Arizona Driver License?
Yes. Foreign applicants who meet Arizona’s requirements can apply for an Arizona driver license or identification card.
Applicants must provide documentation establishing that their presence in the United States is authorized under federal law as well as proof of Arizona residency. The exact documents required can depend on your immigration status and the type of Arizona credential you’re applying for. Arizona Department of Transportation
What Documents Do Foreign Applicants Need?
Documentation is especially important when applying for an Arizona credential as a foreign applicant.
Depending on your situation, documents may include:
- Proof of authorized presence in the United States
- Proof of Arizona residency
- Social Security number, when required
- Current foreign driver license
- Immigration documentation applicable to your status
- Documentation showing a legal name change, when applicable
Examples of authorized-presence documents can include a Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Document or qualifying I-94 documentation. Students with certain F-1 or J-1 classifications may also need an I-20 or DS-2019. Arizona Department of Transportation
Because requirements vary by applicant, go to Arizona MVD’s foreign-applicant requirements to verify specific documents before visiting.
Will I Need to Take an Arizona Driver License Test?
It depends on the country that issued your current driver license.
Arizona currently has testing reciprocity for valid licenses from Canada, Germany, South Korea and Taiwan, meaning qualifying applicants may be exempt from the written and road tests. Other foreign-license applicants generally must complete both tests when applying for a new Arizona driver license. Arizona Department of Transportation
If testing is required, read our Arizona Driver License Testing: What to Expect and How to Prepare guide for more information about the knowledge and road tests.
What Should I Expect When Applying?
Depending on your situation, the Arizona driver license application process can include document verification, a vision screening, written knowledge testing, a road skills test, a photograph and signature and payment of applicable fees. Arizona Department of Transportation
Applicants with a qualifying foreign license may be exempt from some testing requirements.
Preparing your documents before your visit is particularly important. Missing or unacceptable documentation can prevent the transaction from being completed.
Can Foreign Applicants Get an Arizona Travel ID?
Eligible non-U.S. citizens with authorized legal presence may be able to obtain an Arizona Travel ID, which is Arizona’s REAL ID-compliant credential.
Travel ID applicants have additional documentation requirements, including proof of Arizona residency. For non-U.S. citizens with authorized legal presence, the expiration of a Travel ID is tied to the immigration documents presented and cannot exceed eight years. Arizona Department of Transportation
For the full requirements, read our Arizona Travel ID and REAL ID: What You Need to Know guide.
How Long Will My Arizona Driver License Be Valid?
For foreign applicants with temporary authorized presence, the expiration of an Arizona driver license can be tied to the expiration date of the applicant’s authorized-presence documentation. Updated immigration documentation may therefore be necessary when renewing the credential. Arizona Department of Transportation
Because individual circumstances vary, confirm your specific expiration and renewal requirements when applying.
Can I Get an Arizona Driver License at a Third Party MVD?
Arizona Authorized Third Party providers can perform eligible driver license transactions as an alternative to visiting a state MVD office. These providers operate under contract with MVD and have trained staff who must follow MVD policies and requirements. Arizona Department of Transportation
1 Stop Motor Vehicle is listed by ADOT among Arizona’s Authorized Third Party driver license providers. Arizona Department of Transportation
Not every transaction or applicant situation can necessarily be completed at every location, so we recommend confirming service availability before visiting.
Get Help With Your Arizona Driver License at 1 Stop Motor Vehicle
If you’re applying for an Arizona driver license or identification card with a foreign license or foreign identification documents, preparing ahead can make the process much smoother.
At participating 1 Stop Motor Vehicle locations, our team can assist eligible foreign applicants with Arizona driver license and ID services.
Before visiting, gather your identification, authorized-presence and Arizona residency documents and confirm whether driver license testing will be required.
Find a 1 Stop Motor Vehicle location near you to get started.