Arizona driving questions, answered
What a new driver in Arizona asks, answered in two or three sentences from Arizona’s own manual, code, court schedule or licensing pages, and kept only after every figure in it was found in the source it cites. How the answers are made
What happens if I get pulled over and I don't have my license on me?
Under Arizona law, you must show your license when an officer asks, and not having it can get you a complaint. Failing to show it, without giving your name, birth date, address, description and signature, is a class 2 misdemeanor. You're cleared if you bring a license that was valid that day to court or the officer's office.
Sources: A.R.S. § 28-3169 · A.R.S. § 28-1595 · as of 6 Oct 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught texting while driving?
You can't read or write texts while driving, but Arizona law lets you use voice commands or a hands-free device. If you're caught, Arizona law sets a fine of $75 to $149 the first time. After that, it's $400 each time.
Sources: Arizona driver’s manual p. 24 · A.R.S. § 28-914 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I'm driving past my curfew with a provisional license?
Arizona law says an officer can't stop you just for curfew, only if you're also breaking another traffic law. A first violation costs up to $75, and your 6-month restricted period gets extended. A third conviction suspends your license.
Sources: A.R.S. § 28-3174 · Arizona driver’s manual p. 13 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How many friends can I have in the car when I first get my license?
For your first 6 months, you can't have more than 1 passenger under 18 in the car. That limit doesn't apply when a parent or guardian with a valid Class A, B, C or D license sits in the front passenger seat.
Sources: Arizona driver’s manual p. 12 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How long do I have to hold my permit before I can take the road test?
You must hold your Arizona instruction permit for at least 6 months.
Sources: Arizona driver’s manual p. 13 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What car insurance do I need to drive?
Every car you drive in Arizona needs liability insurance from a company licensed to do business in Arizona. The minimum bodily injury liability coverage is $25,000 for one person.
Sources: Arizona driver’s manual p. 9 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I crash my parents' car?
Under Arizona law, after a crash the state may check that the car was insured that day. If the insurer says it wasn't, the owner gets a notice that their license and registration will be suspended 15 days later. The owner can stop that by showing proof of insurance before then or asking for a hearing.
Sources: A.R.S. § 28-4143 · as of 6 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How far from a fire hydrant do I have to park?
Arizona law says you can't park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
Sources: A.R.S. § 28-873 · as of 6 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Can I use my phone at a red light?
Yes, but only hands-free or by voice-to-text. Otherwise, you can use your phone while driving only to report an emergency.
Sources: Arizona driver’s manual p. 24 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How much is the fine for speeding in a school zone?
Arizona law caps your speed at 15 mph between the school crossing signs. If the signs say the penalty doubles, you pay the fine plus an extra amount equal to it. If you don't pay, action can be taken against your license or permit.
Sources: A.R.S. § 28-797 · as of 6 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught driving alone on my permit?
Arizona law says a restricted instruction permit only lets you drive with an approved instructor beside you.
Sources: A.R.S. § 28-3155 · as of 6 Oct 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
Any question about Arizona driving law can be asked in the box, not only these: each answer comes from Arizona’s own manual or code, cited. Ask a question