Arizona driver license and state ID — guide for immigrants

Arizona requires federally authorized presence and a Social Security number for a driver license or ID card, and it has no program for undocumented residents. But lawfully present non-citizens — green-card holders, EAD/work-authorized, students, and others — can get an Arizona license or ID, issued to expire with their immigration document. Here is exactly who qualifies, what to bring, and what it costs.

Quick answer

  • Undocumented DL access: NO — authorized presence + SSN required
  • Lawfully present non-citizens: YES — credential expires with your immigration document
  • Standard ID card fee: $12 (free 65+ / SSI) · Standard DL: $10–$25 by age
  • Travel ID (REAL ID): $25 — required at TSA since May 7, 2025
  • Agency: Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division (MVD)
  • Website: azdot.gov/mvd · Phone: 602-255-0072

Which non-citizens can get an Arizona license or ID

Only non-citizens who can prove federally authorized presence are eligible — this is why Arizona has no undocumented program. Common qualifying documents are an Employment Authorization Card (EAD), a USCIS Form I-94, or a Permanent Resident (Green) Card. F-1 and J-1 students must also present Form I-20 or DS-2019. A Social Security number is required (for an ID or Travel ID, no SSN document is needed but the complete number must be provided; EAD holders must provide their SSN or card).

How long the credential lasts

A non-citizen’s credential expires on the same date as the authorized-presence document, and renewal requires updated immigration documents. A Travel ID for a non-citizen is limited to the immigration document’s expiration, not to exceed eight years (five years for drivers 60 or older).

Travel ID vs standard

  • A Travel ID is Arizona’s REAL ID. Since May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant credential, passport, or other federally approved ID is required at TSA airport checkpoints. It needs one proof of identity, your SSN, and two proofs of Arizona residency.
  • A standard (non-Travel) Arizona license or ID card is still available but is not valid for federal air travel.

How to apply

  1. Gather your authorized-presence document (EAD, I-94, green card; F-1/J-1 add I-20/DS-2019) and your Social Security number.
  2. Bring proof of identity and two proofs of Arizona residency (for a Travel ID).
  3. Schedule an appointment at AZMVDNow.gov (walk-ins are also welcome) at an MVD or authorized third-party office.
  4. Pay the fee — $12 standard ID, $10–$25 standard DL by age, or $25 for a Travel credential.

If you are undocumented or cannot prove authorized presence

Arizona has no driver-privilege card for undocumented residents. Practical alternatives:

  • Use your foreign passport as primary ID for banking, employment (with an EAD), and federal flights.
  • Get a matrícula consular from your home-country consulate (see Consulates in Arizona).
  • Use an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in your home country before travel — valid short-term for visitors.
  • Open an ITIN-friendly bank account to bank without an SSN.
  • Consider an AB60-equivalent state if you must drive regularly (for example California, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, or Washington).

Last verified: 2026-06-28. Sources: Arizona MVD — Foreign Applicants, Proof of Identification, Age and Authorized Presence, and Driver License Fees.

General procedural information. MVD policies, fees, and document requirements change frequently — verify with the Arizona MVD before visiting. Not legal or immigration advice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.