Arizona CDL requirements come down to five questions: do you need a CDL for your vehicle, are you old enough, can you show Arizona residency, are you medically qualified, and can you pass the tests? This page answers each one using the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) rules, so you can check your own situation before you book anything.
When do you need a CDL in Arizona?
You need a commercial driver license in Arizona if you operate any of the following:
- A single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
- A combination vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, where the towed unit has a GVWR above 10,000 pounds.
- A vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
- Any vehicle that requires hazardous materials placards, or that carries a select agent or toxin listed in 42 CFR part 73.
How old do you have to be to get a CDL in Arizona?
The minimum age for a CDL is 21. If you are 18 or older, you may apply for an intrastate CDL or commercial learner permit (CLP) that is valid only in Arizona. Drivers under 21 may not transport placarded amounts of hazardous materials.
What do you need to apply for an Arizona CLP?
The Arizona CLP is valid for 12 months and is required to drive a CDL-class vehicle on the highway. Before it is issued you must pass the knowledge tests for your class and vehicle type. Bring these items:
- A valid DOT medical certificate.
- A Social Security card.
- A valid operator's license.
- Proof of status and proof of identity and age.
- Proof of Arizona residence. Two documents showing the same Arizona address are required.
- One year of driving experience in a non-motorcycle vehicle.
- If you are coming from another state, a Motor Vehicle Record issued within the past 30 days.
Two limits to know: a CLP cannot carry a hazmat endorsement, and a Class C permit must include a passenger endorsement. You also cannot take the CDL skills test within 14 days of CLP issuance.
What are the Arizona CDL medical requirements?
You must keep a current Medical Examiner Certificate on file with MVD, renewed every 24 months or sooner if the examiner or regulations require it. The examiner must be on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. If you let it lapse, the CDL can be suspended and revoked. Arizona CDL holders self-certify as one of two types:
- Non-excepted interstate (NI), which allows operation nationwide.
- Non-excepted intrastate (NA), which restricts you to operating within Arizona.
The excepted options do not qualify for an Arizona CDL. Interstate medical data is sent electronically by FMCSA, and processing takes about 24 hours. Non-excepted intrastate drivers still submit paper, and processing takes about 10 days. Waivers are available through the Medical Review Program for limb impairment or amputation and for vision impairment.
What are the Arizona CDL vision requirements?
You need uncorrected vision of 20/40 or better in each eye for an unrestricted license. If you need glasses or contacts to meet that standard, you receive a B restriction and must wear them while driving. MVD also gives a visual field test.
Which Arizona CDL endorsements can you get?
- Hazardous materials (H): requires a TSA Security Threat Assessment before issue, and cannot be placed on a CLP.
- Doubles/triples and tank vehicle endorsements, each with its own knowledge test.
- Passenger (P): requires a CLP with the endorsement and a skills test in the appropriate class of bus.
- School bus (S): school bus drivers must hold both P and S.
- Motorcycle.
There is also a restriction to watch. If you test for a passenger or school bus endorsement in a vehicle under 26,001 pounds GVWR, you may not operate a passenger vehicle or school bus over that weight.
How does the Arizona CDL skills test work?
The skills test has three parts: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Control Skills Test and the Road Test. You must test in the class of vehicle you intend to drive. Skills testing is by appointment only. At State CDL offices you provide your own vehicle, and authorized third-party testers are also available. Military applicants may request a skills test waiver under certain conditions. Entry-level driver training (ELDT) is a federal requirement that applies to certain applicants before specific tests, so check the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before you book.
Moving to Arizona with a CDL
Arizona must be your state of domicile to hold an Arizona CDL. CDL holders have 30 days to transfer after changing domicile to Arizona, and the out-of-state CDL must be surrendered. Bring proof of status, proof of domicile, a valid DOT medical certificate, a Social Security card and your valid CDL.
Arizona CDL requirements FAQ
What is the minimum age for an Arizona CDL?
The minimum age is 21. At 18 you can apply for an intrastate CDL or CLP that is valid only in Arizona.
How long is an Arizona CLP valid?
An Arizona CLP is valid for 12 months, and you cannot take the CDL skills test within 14 days of issuance.
What vision do you need for an Arizona CDL?
Uncorrected vision of 20/40 or better in each eye gives an unrestricted license. If you need corrective lenses, you get a B restriction.
Can I get an Arizona CDL with excepted interstate status?
No. Arizona CDL holders self-certify as non-excepted interstate (NI) or non-excepted intrastate (NA).
How long do I have to transfer my CDL to Arizona?
CDL holders have 30 days to transfer after changing domicile to Arizona.
Requirements change, so confirm current rules with the Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division, before you apply.