Whether you’re planning on soaking up the sun as a snowbird in Tucson or getting down to business in Phoenix, you might wonder if there is an Arizona ID card for non residents you should be grabbing. Don’t sweat it! While the Grand Canyon state usually likes to keep things local, you’ve got options.
I’ll lead you through the labyrinth of paperwork and red tape to lead you on a smooth journey to obtaining that non-resident Arizona ID card (if you decide you even need one, that is).
Do I Need to Get a Non-Resident ID for Arizona If I Only Live There for 3-6 Months of the Year?
You do not need to get an Arizona ID if you live there for 183 days or less. If you leave on or before then, your ID card from another state will be sufficient for your time in Arizona, and you will not be a legal permanent resident of the state.
However, there are some exceptions, if you:
- Work in Arizona (other than seasonal agricultural work)
- Register to vote in Arizona
- Enroll a child in school (unless you pay out of state tuition)
- Have a business operating vehicles within Arizona (whether transporting goods or passengers)
- Obtain a state license
In these cases, you will need to get an Arizona ID, and register any vehicles involved as well.
Active duty military personnel based in Arizona, and out-of-state students attending a college or university full time in Arizona are also exempt from the ID requirements.
Now, not all of those may apply for snowbirds (but some may)! If you are planning on establishing a second residency, you may still want to get an Arizona ID. If you decide to become a full-time resident, then you’ll transfer your Driver’s License as well at that time.
Why Would You Want an Arizona ID Card?
The reasons why you might want an Arizona ID card as a snowbird or other non resident include:
- Discounts for residents on attractions and services
- Reduced tolls on some roads
- Carrying firearms (still regulated by other laws, so use caution here)
How to Apply for Arizona ID Card for Non-Residents
Luckily, Arizona makes the process relatively straightforward to get an ID card, even for non-full year residents (like snowbirds). Here is the process for how to apply for an Arizona ID card as a non-resident.
Gather Your Documents
You will need:
- Proof of Identity. This is an original US birth certificate, US Passport, or a US Passport Card
- Know Your Social Security Number. You should not need to present your social security card, but you need to know the number for the application. If you use a birth certificate for proof of identity, you should plan to present your social security card. This is because it is a non-photo ID so a secondary form is required
- Proof of Residency. Bring two printed documents that show your current Arizona address. This could include utility bills, credit card or bank statements, a lease, or an insurance policy for example
- Legal Name Change. If you have a different legal name than is shown on your documents, bring the supporting document for that as well, like a marriage license, divorce decree, or court order
- Fees: The fee for an Arizona ID is $12 for ages 0 to 64, and free for ages 65+ (note this could change, so always make sure to check before you head in)
Find an Office
There are two options for where you can report to obtain your Arizona ID:
- Any Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office. Check the hours and locations here
- Authorized Third Party Driver License Provider. Find a list of providers here
Complete the Application
You can start your application ahead of time online by registering for an AZ MVD online account. However, you can just as easily complete the application when you report to a physical office.
Since you’ll need to present documentation and get a photo taken, you must report to an office – not everything can be completed online, unfortunately!
Get Your ID Card
Arizona ID cards are issued the same day so long as you bring all the proper materials and forms. So, how long it takes really just depends how busy the MVD is that day. Usually though, it is under an hour and you can have a shiny new ID card!
It should be noted again, though, that this is an Arizona identification card only. It does not grant driving privileges and is not used in place of a driver’s license. You can have an out of state driver’s license and still obtain an Arizona ID card.
Additionally, an AZ ID is not sufficient for fish and game permits, so if you are planning to use it for hunting or fishing trips specifically, you are out of luck.
Non-US Citizens Seeking Arizona ID Cards
Even non-US citizens can obtain an Arizona ID card, so our Canadian snowbird friends and others have some options!
As a non-US citizen applying for an ID card, you will need at least one of the following:
- A valid employment authorization card (EAD)
- USCIS Form I-94 with an unexpired foreign passport and an unexpired US Visa
- A permanent resident card (I-551)
You will also need to obtain a US social security number and card (even if you are not authorized for work).
Additionally, you still require two items proving your Arizona residency, which must be mail issued from a business, organization, or government agency, and contain your name and Arizona address.
Once you have all of these items, proceed as normal through the application and issuance process for your Arizona ID card!
How to Replace Your Arizona ID Card
Now, if you lost your Arizona ID or it was stolen, that’s a problem that can be fixed.
Step 1: First things first, reach out to the local police department. Giving them a heads-up reduces the chance of someone committing identity theft in your name.
Step 2: Next, visit the AZ MVD, either online or through a visit, to get yourself a replacement ID card. Keep in mind you’ll need to prove who you are, so prepare that paperwork with your name plastered all over it. Note: if you still have your ID number it makes the process easier, so you may want to store that information somewhere digitally that is secure as a backup.
Note that there is a $12 fee (at time of writing) for a replacement card as well, so be prepared to pay up whether in person or online.
Name and Address Changes on Arizona ID Cards
Changing your name or address on your Arizona ID is easy, but you still have to do the paperwork. In fact, Arizona requires all name and address changes be reported within 10 days of the change.
Whether you’ve tied the knot, parted ways, or just changed houses, the AZ MVD is where you’ll make it all official. Keep those documents – a marriage certificate, a mortgage, or a lease agreement- because they’re your golden tickets to updating your ID info.
How to Update Your Name on a Non-Resident ID
Switched up your names? No worries. If your name has changed thanks to a walk down the aisle or signing on the dotted line of a divorce decree, updating your non-resident ID in Arizona is a must.
First, you must change your name with the Social Security Administration. It usually takes them 2 days to process the change.
Once your social security information is updated, go over to the closest MVD along with any document that supports your new name, like your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Present your current Arizona ID card and that change document, and they’ll get you squared away.
How to Change Your Address on an Arizona ID Card
Changing your address on an Arizona ID card is even easier. If you’ve changed houses and need your Arizona ID to reflect your new home, you’re just a few clicks away.
Hop onto the MVD’s website or go to their office with your current ID and proof of your new home. It could be a lease agreement, mortgage, or a utility bill – as long as it has your name and your new address, you should be set.
There is no fee to change your address. However, if you want a re-printed ID card that reflects your new name or address, plan to pay the $12 fee again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Non-US Citizen Get an Arizona ID?
Yes, a non-US citizen can get an Arizona ID. You will need a valid foreign passport and a current US Visa in lieu of the US Passport requirement.
Note that you’ll still need secondary form(s) of identification as well, such as a social security card (even if you are not authorized for work) and proof of an Arizona residence.
How Do I Get an ID Card in Arizona?
Collect your proof of identification, proof of Arizona residence, your application and your processing fee. Visit the nearest MVD or authorized provider to get your Arizona ID card.
Even children are eligible to obtain non-driver ID cards.
Can You Get an Arizona ID Online?
You can start the Arizona ID process by registering online, filling out an application, and in some cases scheduling your appointment.
However, for the final part of the process, you must go into an MVD or third-party provider and show yourself in person.
What Is an Arizona ID Card?
An Arizona ID card is a form of identification issued by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to individuals who reside in Arizona temporarily or long term, but do not qualify for or want a regular Arizona driver’s license.
This could include those who have a driver’s license from another state who do not wish to transfer it permanently, or those underage or disabled who would not otherwise be able to get a driver’s license.
Can You Use an Arizona ID Card for Driving Purposes?
No, an Arizona ID card cannot be used for driving purposes. Non-residents who wish to drive in Arizona must obtain an Arizona driver’s license, or use a current valid driver’s license from their home state.
ID cards are solely for the purpose of identification and do not qualify for driving, or hunting or fishing licenses. You may hold an AZ ID card and a driver’s license from another state.
Can Non-Residents Renew Their Arizona ID Card?
Non-permanent residents may be able to renew their Arizona ID card if they still meet the eligibility criteria and provide updated documentation to verify their identity and residency status.
Also note that all name and address changes must be reported within 10 days to MVD to remain in compliance with AZ laws.
Can Non-Residents Use Their Arizona ID Card to Vote?
Non-residents cannot use an Arizona ID card to vote in Arizona elections.
If you are in Arizona during an election you wish to vote in, request a mail in ballot be issued to you from your primary state of residence where you are registered to vote instead.
What Should You Do If You Lose Your Arizona ID Card?
If you lose your Arizona ID card should report the loss to the MVD and the local police as a precaution.
Follow the necessary steps to obtain a replacement card, which include providing additional documentation and paying a replacement fee.
Final Thoughts: Securing Your Non-Resident ID in Arizona
While, like most states, Arizona has its rules and regulations, it’s actually not difficult of a process to get a non-resident ID if you so choose.
Just make sure to gather together everything you need ahead of time, fill out the application ahead of time if possible, and you’ll be in an out in no time. By ‘no time’ I of course really mean ‘whatever speed the MVD is moving’.
If you decide to skip the Arizona ID as a snowbird, that’s OK too! Your out of state Driver’s License still allows you to drive your vehicle and show proof of identity or age ID as needed, so you’re covered.
However, there are some nice perks to having an identification card for Arizona (like some sweet discounts) so the work may be worth the reward. I’ll leave that up to you to decide!
Planning to check out a different location next year? Check out my guide on Florida residency requirements for snowbirds for all the details there!
I was born and raised in the northern United States, and one thing I learned pretty early on in life is: I hate the cold and snow. Sure, there’s something charming about the first snowfall of the year, but after that, I’m out.
While a part of my heart will always lie in New England, the older I get, the more I want to escape it during the coldest months.
That’s where the snowbirding lifestyle earned its appeal for me. When the bad weather starts to loom, I head south to find warmer climates to get me through until spring and warmer weather returns.
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