Teens Can Now Take MVD Learner’s Permit Test Online
Taking the driver’s instruction permit test just got a bit easier and more convenient for Arizona teens, especially for the half who fail the test their first go. Today, the Motor Vehicle Department began offering the rules of the road test online for those seeking a driver’s permit, but the digital test option doesn’t eliminate a trip to the MVD entirely.
“Online testing is commonplace for things such as college courses and professional certifications, so having the Permit Test at Home is a modern and convenient way for MVD to serve our customers,” said MVD Stakeholder Relations Manager Jennifer Bowser-Richards.
But won’t that allow cheating? The short answer, according to ADOT is “yes,” but the digital option places compliance in the hands of parents, who will be asked to certify that they will proctor the exam fairly.
“ADOT requires every teenage driver to have a licensed driver with them [in the car], usually a parent who has a strong motivation to be honest,” ADOT spokesperson Doug Nick told North Phoenix News.
Offering the test digitally eliminates the need for multiple visits to the MVD for those who don’t receive a passing score, Nick said, adding “the failure rate on this test is 50 percent.”
Once a passing score is achieved, potential drivers can then apply for their learner’s permit and receive a physical copy through an in-person visit to an MVD office. Teens must be at least 15 years and 6 months old in order to obtain an instruction permit and will still be required to pass a road skills driving test prior to receiving a driver’s license. Other stipulations:
- For those under 18, the application for an instruction permit or driver license must be signed by a parent or guardian.
- The digital test requires a $7 application fee, the same cost as in-person visit.
- Teens are allowed three attempts to pass the test within 12 months.
To access the test online, parents must register their child by creating an account at www.servicearizona.com, and agree to the terms.
