FAQ - Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Maintain Your CDL: Avoid Delays and Fees

How often am I required to renew my CDL?

CDLs generally expire every 8 years, but it can be less than 8 years based on your Authorized Presence dates (e.g. Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Document).

What documents are required to renew my CDL?

You will need your current credential and a valid primary document (i.e. Birth Certificate or valid passport). CDL document requirements

• If you have changed your address since you last renewed, or need to change your address, bring proof of address. CDL document requirements
• If you changed your name, bring proof of the name change.
• If your Medical Exam Certificate is expiring, bring a valid one with you, or submit it on AZMVDNow.gov. You can check your MEC expiration date here AZ MVD Now.

Do I need to provide proof of my address when I change my address on my CDL?

No, proof of address is not needed to update/change your address on your CDL until you renew your CDL.

Can I have an out of state address on my CDL?

No, all Arizona CDL holders must maintain a residence in AZ and have an AZ residential address on their CDL credential.

Do I have to have my fingerprints taken every time I renew my TSA background check?

Fingerprints are required at the discretion of TSA. Contact TSA for requirements.

Do I have to retake my HAZMAT endorsement knowledge test when I renew my TSA background check?

No, TSA and the Hazmat endorsement run separately from each other.

The TSA background check is every five years and must be submitted electronically by TSA to the MVD. It is recommended that the customers apply for the TSA background check 45 days prior to the expiration date.

Hazmat endorsement (HME) retesting is required in a few situations:

• Renewing CDL or upgrading to a Travel ID and the last passing HME score was over 12 months.
• Out of state CDL transfer.
• Re-adding the HME and the last passing score was over 12 months.

What happens if I do not renew my TSA background check?

If you do not renew your TSA background check, all of your driving privileges are canceled (commercial and personal).

How long does it take for my TSA background check to be approved?

Expect about 30-45 days for the TSA to approve your background check TSA.gov.

Can my TWIC card be used to renew my TSA requirement?

No, MVD requires the TSA background check.

How often am I required to renew my CDL Medical Exam Certificate (MEC)?

A MEC may be good for up to two years, however expiration timelines vary depending on the physician’s determination of results. See expiration date on MEC or log into your AZ MVD Now account.

What happens when I do not renew my CDL MEC on time?

If your MEC card expires, your commercial driving privilege will be suspended and revoked.

You must either:

1. Reinstate your CDL by submitting a valid MEC and pay reinstatement fee at AZ MVD Now.

2. Downgrade your CDL to a Class D driver’s license by visiting an MVD office or authorized third party.

How is my Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) submitted once it has been completed?

All commercial motor vehicle drivers must have a physical performed by a medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

The Medical Examiner Certificate is to be renewed every 24 months or sooner, as determined by the medical examiner or by regulation. Failure to maintain a current certificate on file with MVD will result in the suspension and revocation of your CDL.

To verify the status of your Arizona medical certification sign in to your AZ MVD Now account.

Effective June 23, 2025:

• Medical examiners will electronically submit results directly to FMCSA.
• FMCSA will forward those results to state licensing agencies.
• Drivers will no longer need to submit their own MECs.

The FMCSA’s Medical Examiner’s Certification Integration rule is moving toward automation, but until June, everything will remain the same. To avoid being caught off guard when the new system finally kicks in, keep submitting your medical certificates, verifying compliance and following FMCSA updates

What You Should Do Now

• Drivers should make sure their medical certification is up to date. Don’t assume the new system is already in place; keep carrying your MEC and submit it to your state agency.

If you no longer wish to keep your CDL, you must go to an MVD office and downgrade to a regular Class D operator license or Class M motorcycle license prior to the expiration of the current medical certification, to avoid suspension, revocation or both. Application fees will apply.

Will I need to retest if I do not renew my MEC before it expires?

No, re-testing is only required if your CDL is expired, withdrawn, suspended, revoked, canceled or disqualified for a period of 12 months or more.

Where can I find a list of certified DOT physicians?

You can find an updated list of registered DOT physicians at nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/.

Can I submit a Medical Exam Certificate (MEC) that is issued in another state?

Yes, if it is issued by a registered DOT physician. You can find an updated list of registered DOT physicians at nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/.