Arizona Vehicle Registration and Driver’s License Cost and Validity

In Arizona, vehicle registration and driver’s licensing are handled a bit differently than in most other states, with costs often tied to the age of the vehicle or the age of the driver.

Vehicle Registration

Registration costs are not a flat fee; they are a combination of several smaller fees and a significant tax based on your car’s value.

What is the cost?

The total cost is the sum of these four main parts:

• Registration Fee: $8.00
• Title Fee: $4.00 (if you are issuing a new title)
• Air Quality Research Fee: $1.50
• Vehicle License Tax (VLT): This is the largest part of the bill. It is calculated based on 60% of the manufacturer’s retail price (MSRP) and decreases by 16.25% for every year the vehicle is registered.
  • New vehicles: ~$2.80 per $100 of assessed value.
  • Used vehicles: ~$2.89 per $100 of assessed value.

How long is it good for?

Most passenger vehicles can be registered for 1, 2, or 5 years at a time. The 5-year option is typically only available for newer vehicles that are exempt from emissions testing for their first few years.

Driver’s License

Arizona is famous for having one of the longest-lasting driver’s licenses in the country.

What is the cost?

The cost of an Arizona operator license (Class D) is based on your age at the time of issuance:

• Ages 16–39: $25.00
• Ages 40–44: $20.00
• Ages 45–49: $15.00
• Ages 50+: $10.00
• Voluntary Travel ID (Real ID): $25.00 (regardless of age)

How long is it good for?

A standard Arizona driver’s license is valid until you turn 65 years old.

• Photo Updates: Even though the license doesn’t expire until 65, you are required to visit an MVD office every 12 years to take a new photo and pass a vision test.
• Seniors (65+): Once you reach 65, the license must be renewed every 5 years.
• Travel ID: If you opt for the federally compliant “Travel ID,” it must be renewed every 8 years.