Arizona Adds “Native American” Designation to State IDs Under New Law, Enrollment Proof Required

What changed and when

Arizona has begun issuing driver licenses, instruction permits and state identification cards that display a “Native American” designation for eligible residents. The change is available through the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) and follows the implementation of House Bill 2852, a state law that took effect on Jan. 1, 2026.

The designation appears on the front of the credential, printed below the cardholder’s photo and signature. The option is limited to enrolled members of federally recognized tribal nations within Arizona.

Eligibility and required documentation

To receive the new designation, applicants must provide additional proof of tribal enrollment beyond the standard documentation required for an Arizona credential. For residents seeking to update an existing license or ID, the process requires a new application and a new photograph.

MVD has listed several examples of acceptable proof of enrollment, including:

• Enhanced Tribal Card
• Tribal Identification Card
• Tribal Certificate of Indian Blood
• Tribal or Bureau of Indian Affairs Affidavit of Birth

How it fits into Arizona’s identification system

Arizona issues multiple forms of state identification, including standard credentials and REAL ID–compliant credentials marketed as the “Arizona Travel ID.” The new “Native American” designation is a printed identifier on the credential face and does not replace federal REAL ID requirements for domestic air travel and certain federal facilities, which have been enforced since May 7, 2025.

Residents can continue to choose between credential types based on their needs. The addition of the new designation expands the set of information that can be displayed on Arizona-issued credentials for people who meet the eligibility criteria.

Legislative pathway and implementation

House Bill 2852 was sponsored by state Rep. Myron Tsosie of Chinle and was signed into law in 2025. MVD implemented the change after the law’s effective date, making the designation available on newly issued credentials as well as renewals and replacements when the applicant provides the required proof of enrollment.

The “Native American” designation is optional and available only to enrolled members of federally recognized tribal nations in Arizona.

What applicants should expect

Applicants who want the designation should be prepared for an in-person step that includes a new photo and the submission of enrollment documentation. As with other credential updates, processing time and delivery may vary depending on the credential type and issuance method.

MVD has indicated the designation can be added across common credential categories, including driver licenses, instruction permits and state ID cards, as long as eligibility is established.