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 do I submit my Medical Exam Certificate (MEC) once it has been completed?

Online: You can upload your MEC for review on your AZ MVD Now account AZ MVD Now at no charge. Login to your AZ MVD Now account and select Driver License & ID. Navigate to Commercial Driver License then select CDL Medical Exam Documents (Upload). IMPORTANT: We highly recommend that you upload your MEC into your documents on AZ MVD Now so you can view it at a later date if needed.

In-Person: at any MVD office or Authorized Third Party location.

By email: [email protected]

By mail: MVD/MRP
Mail Drop 818Z
P.O.Box 2100
Phoenix , AZ 8500

Your MEC will be reviewed in the next 10 business days.

My MEC card will expire in the next 10 business days. What can I do?

Submit your MEC card online at AZ MVD Now. Check back the next day on your account to see if the new expiration date is on your account.  If the new date is not showing in your account the next day, contact Medical Review at 602.771.2460.

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/.