Arizona imposes specific rules and procedures for driver license renewal for seniors aged 65 and older. Below is a comprehensive guide to help navigate the process.
Renewal Frequency
- Drivers aged 65 and older must renew their licenses every five years. This is shorter than the 12-year renewal period for younger drivers or the 8-year period for Travel IDs (REAL ID licenses).
In-Person Requirement
- Seniors aged 65 and older must renew their licenses in person at an Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office or a third-party license location. Online renewal is not permitted for this age group.
Vision Test
- A vision test is mandatory at every renewal for seniors. This test can be conducted at the MVD or by an external ophthalmologist/optometrist using a Vision Examination Report completed within three months of renewal.
Required Documents
To renew a driver’s license, seniors must bring:
- Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, passport, green card, Social Security card).
- Two documents proving mailing address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement, voter registration card).
Fees
- The renewal fee is $10 for a traditional driver’s license and $25 for a Travel ID (REAL ID)1.
Driving Test
- While most seniors do not need to retake a driving test, the MVD may require one if:
- A medical condition affecting driving ability is reported.
- Concerns about driving safety are raised by family members, medical professionals, or law enforcement.
License Restrictions
- Based on vision or medical evaluations, the MVD may impose restrictions such as requiring corrective lenses or limiting driving to daylight hours.
Penalties for Driving on an Expired License
- Arizona does not have a grace period for expired licenses. Driving with an expired license can result in penalties ranging from traffic tickets ($120) to Class 2 misdemeanor charges, which may include fines up to $750, jail time up to four months, and probation.
Travel ID Option
- Seniors can upgrade their traditional license to a Travel ID (REAL ID), valid for eight years instead of five. This requires additional documentation and a higher fee.
By adhering to these guidelines, seniors can ensure compliance with Arizona’s licensing regulations while maintaining their driving privileges.
Sources
- https://www.lawforseniors.org/topics/civil-law/civil-traffic/senior-driver-license
- https://azdot.gov/adot-blog/director-extending-driver-license-renewals-older-adults
- https://zutobi.com/us/az-car/driver-guides/arizona-drivers-license-renewal
- https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-rules-seniors/
- https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table