Arizona New Driver’s License Rules: What You Need to Know
Getting a driver’s license is a rite of passage for many young adults. It represents freedom, independence, and the ability to go wherever you want, whenever you want. But with this newfound freedom comes great responsibility. In Arizona, there are specific rules and regulations that new drivers must adhere to in order to keep themselves and others safe on the road.
As of January 1, 2021, Arizona has implemented new rules for obtaining a driver’s license. These rules are designed to ensure that new drivers are adequately prepared to handle the responsibilities that come with driving. One of the biggest changes is that new drivers must now complete a graduated driver licensing (GDL) program before they can obtain a full driver’s license.
The GDL program is divided into three stages: the learner’s permit stage, the intermediate stage, and the unrestricted stage. During the learner’s permit stage, new drivers must be at least 15 years and 6 months old and must pass a written exam, a vision test, and a road test in order to obtain their learner’s permit. With a learner’s permit, new drivers are allowed to drive under the supervision of a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has had their license for at least three years.
After holding a learner’s permit for at least six months, new drivers are eligible to apply for an intermediate license. To obtain an intermediate license, new drivers must be at least 16 years old and must have completed at least 20 hours of supervised driving practice, including at least 10 hours at night. With an intermediate license, new drivers are allowed to drive unsupervised between the hours of 5 a.m. and 10 p.m., but they are not allowed to drive with more than one passenger under the age of 18 who is not an immediate family member.
Finally, after holding an intermediate license for at least six months, new drivers are eligible to apply for an unrestricted license. To obtain an unrestricted license, new drivers must be at least 18 years old and must have completed at least 30 hours of supervised driving practice, including at least 15 hours at night. With an unrestricted license, new drivers are allowed to drive unsupervised at any time and with any number of passengers.
In addition to completing the GDL program, new drivers in Arizona are also required to pass a written exam, a vision test, and a road test in order to obtain their driver’s license. The written exam tests new drivers on their knowledge of traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The vision test ensures that new drivers have adequate vision to drive safely, and the road test evaluates new drivers’ ability to operate a vehicle safely and obey traffic laws.
New drivers in Arizona are also subject to certain restrictions once they have obtained their driver’s license. For example, drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to use a cell phone while driving, except in the case of an emergency. They are also not allowed to drive with more than one passenger under the age of 18 who is not an immediate family member, unless they are driving to or from work, school, or a school-sponsored event.
It’s important for new drivers in Arizona to familiarize themselves with the state’s laws and regulations regarding driver’s licenses. By following these rules and regulations, new drivers can help ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. If you’re a new driver in Arizona, be sure to visit the Arizona Department of Transportation’s website for more information on how to obtain your driver’s license and how to stay safe on the road. Remember, driving is a privilege, not a right, so make sure you’re prepared to handle the responsibilities that come with it.
