Driver License

Removing detours for new drivers at MVD

Removing detours for new drivers at MVD

Removing detours for new drivers at MVD

October 20, 2016

Chandler MVD

By Doug Nick / ADOT Communications

We all remember that red-letter day when we walked into the Motor Vehicle office and proudly showed that we were ready to get our driver license because, by golly, we had passed both drivers’ education and a road test!

Fun times for sure.

Now to be honest, until recently there was a chance that ADOT’s Motor Vehicle Division might put the, ahem, brakes on your celebration, if only for a few minutes.

That’s because if you got drivers ed at a private driving school (which these days means most people), MVD might randomly select you for another road test just to make sure you were well-taught.

But it didn’t seem sporting to make sure the school is doing things the right way by putting you through another road test. So, as we announced today, MVD has stopped doing that because there are other ways to make sure the schools are up to snuff. We’d rather have you spend less time in line and get you safely on the road.

Just one more way MVD is ahead of the curve.

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MVD works to keep you out of lines -- even somebody else's

MVD works to keep you out of lines -- even somebody else's

MVD works to keep you out of lines -- even somebody else's

September 30, 2016

ADOT MVD

By Doug Nick / ADOT Communications

Nobody likes standing in line. That's why ADOT's Motor Vehicle Division works very hard to get you out of line and safely on the road.

That means we’re even interested in keeping you out of somebody else’s line – in this case, the Social Security Administration's.

We’re not being critical of those folks; we’re just saying there is a new way that you can do business with them online.

Arizona is now one of only 15 states offering residents a secure online way for to connect to the Social Security Administration website at ssa.gov/ssnumber to apply for a replacement Social Security card.

We’ve partnered with the nonprofit American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators to offer the Driver License Data Verification service. This system verifies things such as name, address, birth date, license expiration date, etc., then confirms their validity.

The secure data-verification process also streamlines the current process used by banks, retailers and government agencies for verifying a person’s identity. When someone applies for a bank loan or makes a major purchase, this electronic system eliminates paperwork that may takes days to process by moving that secure process online.

Online. Sounds a lot better than in line. That’s because it is.

Just another way MVD is ahead of the curve.

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There's a good chance we can save you that trip to an MVD office

There's a good chance we can save you that trip to an MVD office

There's a good chance we can save you that trip to an MVD office

September 8, 2016

Service Arizona Screenshot

By Doug Nick / ADOT Communications

Going to the Motor Vehicle Division to take care of paperwork is usually not high someone’s list of things to do. Those of us who work at ADOT know this too, and we’re doing a lot to get you out of line and safely on the road.

What better way to do that than to let people know the chances are good that you don’t need to get in that line in the first place? As we shared this week, 51 percent of the transactions done in our offices can just as easily be done online.

Renewing your registration, obtaining a refund, registering to vote, getting your vehicle record, changing your address information – all of these and a lot more can be done online. Using ServiceArizona.com means you can take care of a lot of business at your convenience.

Arizona’s drivers are our customers, and we are always looking at ways to serve you better.

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Don't forget your paperwork when applying for a Voluntary Travel ID

Don't forget your paperwork when applying for a Voluntary Travel ID

Don't forget your paperwork when applying for a Voluntary Travel ID

August 25, 2016

By Caroline Carpenter / ADOT Communications

If you're visiting an MVD office to get a new Arizona driver license or ID card, renew your credential or get a 12-year photo update, you might want to consider a Voluntary Travel ID.

It's a credential that complies with the federal REAL ID Act for getting through security checkpoints at airports and accessing restricted federal buildings and military bases. You may either get a driver license or an identification card.

Before you head to the MVD, we want to make sure you bring along the documentation needed to get a Voluntary Travel ID, as the requirements are different. The video above has the details, or you can visit azdot.gov/TravelID for more information.

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Arrive prepared when renewing a commercial driver license

Arrive prepared when renewing a commercial driver license

Arrive prepared when renewing a commercial driver license

July 14, 2016

PHOENIX – When it comes to renewing a commercial driver license, having the right documents can save applicants time and trouble.

Commercial driver licenses, which are valid for five years, must be renewed at one of 13 Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division commercial driver license offices around the state. When a commercial driver comes in without the proper documentation, he or she will have to come back and risk the license expiring before it can be renewed.

To renew an Arizona commercial driver license, drivers must bring the following documents:

Current Arizona commercial driver license
A document establishing citizenship or legal presence such as a certified birth certificate, unexpired U.S. passport or permanent resident card
Social Security card
Medical examiner certificate
Proof of residency in Arizona such as a bank statement, utility bill or Arizona voter registration card

A full list of acceptable documents can be found on the ADOT website, azdot.gov.

It’s also important for commercial drivers to bring documents showing proof of name change if their current name is different from the name on their primary document such as a birth certificate. Hazardous materials knowledge tests are required at time of renewal if the driver has a Hazardous Materials Endorsement and wishes to keep that endorsement.

For more information, please visit azdot.gov/mvd.

Arizona's Voluntary Travel ID is here, but there's no rush

Arizona's Voluntary Travel ID is here, but there's no rush

Arizona's Voluntary Travel ID is here, but there's no rush

March 31, 2016

By Ryan Harding / ADOT Communications

We shared this week that Arizona’s Voluntary Travel ID is here. And we also shared that there's no rush to get one.

In case you're wondering what a Travel ID is or why there's no rush, here's the information you need ...

The Voluntary Travel ID is Arizona’s credential that complies with the federal REAL ID Act passed by Congress back in 2005. The federal law set forth minimum security standards for state-issued credentials presented at federal buildings and security checkpoints like airport security.

Identified by a gold star in the top right corner of the ID, the Voluntary Travel ID will ensure you can get through airport security to board your flight or enter federal buildings and military bases.

“But wait,” you say. “I’m flying for vacation or business later this year. Should I come get one right now?”

Nope. There’s no rush. You see, now that we have the Travel ID available, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has said it will extend the use of current Arizona credentials at airport security and federal buildings until Oct. 1, 2020. So you have some time to decide if and when to get one.

Considering getting one anyway? Then check out our Voluntary Travel ID site.

Also, check out our public service announcement below for a quick overview on the Voluntary Travel ID. You might see it air on local TV stations, but you can tell your friends you saw it here first.

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ADOT enhances security of driver license application process

ADOT enhances security of driver license application process

ADOT enhances security of driver license application process

July 16, 2015

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Transportation is taking an active role in curbing identity theft and fraud by implementing facial recognition technology in the application process for state-issued credentials.

An applicant for a new or duplicate driver license or state ID card at an ADOT Motor Vehicle Division or Authorized Third Party office will have their photo taken at the beginning of the process. Facial recognition during the “Photo First” review process occurs seamlessly and without delay as the customer continues through the application process.

In 2012, ADOT Motor Vehicle Division implemented a Photo First approach to aid in the detection of and prevention of fraud, forgery and identity theft. In 2014, ADOT Motor Vehicle Division implemented Central Credential Issuance, eliminating credentials being issued at the MVD or Authorized Third Party offices. Both processes have contributed to a more comprehensive review of applications along with providing more time to identify possible fraudulent submissions.

One of the best screening formats in the detection of identity theft, attempted fraud or forgery in the application process has always been the ADOT Motor Vehicle Division customer service representatives who initially review all documents submitted in the application packet. During this initial screening process of the application packet by ADOT employees, possible file errors or fraudulent submissions are detected.

“Facial recognition technology supports the commitment by ADOT to protect the privacy of its customers, and to maintain the integrity and accuracy of the credential issuance process,” said ADOT Director John Halikowski. “This technology enables us to fight against fraud and identity theft.”

The technology provides an effective screening method to identify errors in customer records in the state driver license database and to prevent fraudulent attempts to obtain an Arizona driver license or identification card. It also allows ADOT to develop the new federally compliant Voluntary Travel ID according to the requirements outlined in the federal REAL ID Act of 2005.

When a credential application record generates an alert resulting from the facial recognition technology, the system will automatically perform an additional review of the record to identify and correct any possible file errors. If the system verifies it is not a file error, the record will then undergo a comprehensive review by personnel in the ADOT Office of the Inspector General.

“This technology allows us to take a proactive approach to protecting people’s identities and stopping fraud,” said ADOT Assistant Director Terry Conner, who leads the Enforcement and Compliance Division. “Our detectives are already working investigations after reviewing reliable information provided by the system.”

For more information about applying for an Arizona driver license or ID card, please visit: azdot.gov/driverlicenseinfo.

Your MVD-related questions (and answers)

Your MVD-related questions (and answers)

Your MVD-related questions (and answers)

July 10, 2015

Many good, interesting MVD-related questions are submitted to us through social media.

A lot of interesting questions get sent our way…

Between Facebook, Twitter, the commenting feature here on the blog and this “Contact ADOT” form, there are many ways for you to submit your inquiries online.

But we’re guessing that most of our readers don’t scroll through all of our feeds, which means you’re not seeing those great questions (or our answers). That’s why we thought we’d share a few of the Q&As right here, right now.

Today, we’re just focusing on some MVD-related questions that we’ve received recently. Hopefully, you’ll find these questions and answers to be useful!

I am turning 65 and need to renew my license. I wear glasses that are a few years old, so I'm not 20/20. How good does my vision need to be for the license renewal?
If you have doubts about passing the vision test, please arrange for a professional vision examination. An applicant for a renewal driver license who fails the vision test is not eligible to renew and their current driver license privilege will be suspended. The applicant then will have to reapply for a new driver license – including passing the vision test.

The reapplication process may include bringing in a signed document from a vision specialist stating the applicant’s vision is within mandatory standards for an Arizona driver license.

How long can you have a permit when you’re 18?
An Instruction Permit for an applicant of any age is valid for 12 months. It is mandatory for driver license applicants under age 18 to hold an Instruction Permit for a minimum of six months. At age 18, you will not be required to comply with the mandatory six-month holding period, but to learn to drive lawfully, you will need to take the written test and obtain an Instruction Permit.

Once you have obtained an Instruction Permit and have practiced driving and believe you are ready for the road/skills test, you can visit an MVD office (remember: if you are under age 18, you must have an Instruction Permit for at least six-months before you can take the road/skills test).

Here are the requirements for a road/skills test:

A currently registered and insured vehicle – must show proof-of-insurance
A licensed driver must accompany the permitee to the test

If you fail either the written or road/skills test, you are required to wait seven days before you may take the test again. Hope this helps answer your question! Additional details can be found on our MVD website.

I am considering buying a motorcycle. I have an Arizona Operator's License now and need to take the written test for the M endorsement and pass the driving test. How do I buy the motorcycle and legally drive it to the testing site?
If anyone wants to be on the road lawfully while learning to ride a motorcycle, they will need a motorcycle instruction permit.

When applying for your first Arizona motorcycle instruction permit, you must pass a written motorcycle test based on the information contained in the motorcycle operator manual. You will not need to bring a motorcycle to the testing site to apply for the written motorcycle instruction permit exam.

You can find more details in the Arizona motorcycle operator manual.

Where do I go to take the online practice test?
You can find the online practice tests on our MVD website. Good luck!

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ADOT MVD begins scheduling appointments for road exams

ADOT MVD begins scheduling appointments for road exams

ADOT MVD begins scheduling appointments for road exams

June 17, 2015

PHOENIX – Need a road exam for a driver license, but find the test time slots are filled up for the day? Or, did you fail your road test and now need to return? No problem, says the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division.

On June 8, the MVD launched a new program that allows those who fail a road test, or walk into an MVD office but find that the time slots for road tests are filled for the day, to schedule a road test for another day.

Appointments may only be scheduled on-site at an MVD office after all relevant requirements have been met. These include a completed application, fee payment and passing the written test, if applicable.

“This new process will help expedite follow-up visits for those returning to take road tests,” said MVD Director Eric Jorgensen. “At the MVD, we’re continually looking for ways to improve customer service. This is another way we’re doing just that.”

If a person applying for a driver license comes into an office to take a road exam, they will be informed at the information desk if time slots for exams are filled for the day. If this is the case, the customer service representative will work with the customer to complete the application and payment steps, and then schedule an appointment for the next available day and time.

If an applicant failed the road test, they will also be able to schedule an appointment to retake the test. That appointment will be set for at least seven days from the date of the failed exam per MVD policy.

Customers who schedule an appointment will be given a confirmation notice with the scheduled date and time to bring with them when they return. The notice will have instructions on how to cancel or reschedule the appointment if needed.

Alternatively, customers may choose to apply for a driver license at one of the 16 Authorized Third Party businesses statewide that offer those services.

For locations of MVD offices and Authorized Third Party businesses, check out the new interactive map at azdot.gov/mvd.

Need a driver license? Save time at the MVD office by going online first

Need a driver license? Save time at the MVD office by going online first

Need a driver license? Save time at the MVD office by going online first

May 27, 2015

PHOENIX – If you’re applying for a driver license, instructional permit or identification card, you can save time by submitting your application online before heading to a Motor Vehicle Division office.

The Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division wants to remind people of the “Be Prepared” online service that began three years ago.

To begin, go to the ADOT MVD website at azdot.gov/mvd and click on “Driver License Information” under the Driver Services heading. From there, click on the link to complete the driver license/identification card application online and submit it. There is also a link to a list of acceptable proof of identification for applying for a credential.

Once the application has been submitted, print out the confirmation page containing a barcode and bring that along with appropriate identification documents to the MVD office or one of the 14 Authorized Third Party offices that offer driver license services. The printed barcode will allow staff to retrieve your online application from the computer system.

Online applications can be completed for an operator, commercial driver and motorcycle license, as well as an instructional permit and identification card. The applicant must pay the appropriate fee at the office and may be required to take the written or road skills test if necessary.

“This online service is one of several ways the Motor Vehicle Division is saving customers time when they visit an office,” said MVD Director Eric Jorgensen. “We encourage everyone to take advantage of this service and make their visit easier.”

Other tips for faster service in addition to utilizing the online application include:

The best days to visit an office are usually Wednesday and Thursday
The busiest days tend to be around the 15th and the last day of the month, which are vehicle registration renewal deadlines, as well as the day after a holiday or other office closure
If you have an out-of-state driver license or identification card, bring it with you to the office

For more information or questions about the driver license application process, please visit: azdot.gov/driverlicenseinfo.

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