SB 1456: ADOT; primitive roads; designation - Arizona

Senate Engrossed Version (02/26/2026) → Chaptered Version · 6 edits

MODERATE

The bill was converted from a Senate version to a Chaptered version, meaning it has been officially enacted into law. The substantive content shifted from defining 'primitive roads' to establishing a new framework for 'authorized third-party driver license providers.' This change authorizes private entities to perform driver's license testing and processing under strict conditions, including high bonding requirements and specific experience thresholds.

Scope change

The bill's scope changed from regulating state infrastructure maintenance (primitive roads) to regulating private sector participation in the Department of Transportation's licensing operations.

SCOPE

The primary subject matter was replaced entirely, moving from primitive road designations to third-party driver license provider authorization.

REQUIREMENT

New requirements mandate that applicants must have three years of prior authorization experience and conduct at least 1,000 retention transactions monthly.

FISCAL

A new bonding requirement was introduced, requiring a minimum initial bond of $300,000 with additional $100,000 fees for each new location, capped at $1,000,000 total.

DEFINITION

New definitions were added for 'authorized third party driver license provider' and their specific duties regarding skills testing and license processing.

The previous definitions regarding state highways, routes, and the legal status of primitive roads were removed.

ELIGIBILITY

Eligibility criteria now require applicants to be in good standing with the department and possess specific facility plans for adequate space and equipment.

House Engrossed Version (06/11/2026) → Senate Engrossed Version (02/26/2026) · 5 edits · Jun 12, 2026

MODERATE

The bill was amended to shift its focus from regulating private third-party driver license providers to defining state highways and establishing a new 'primitive road' designation. This change removes all requirements for private companies to bond, test drivers, or process licenses, while simultaneously creating a new legal category for unmaintained state roads that limits government liability for accidents on them.

Scope change

The bill's scope changed from regulating private commercial entities (driver license providers) to defining public infrastructure (state highways and primitive roads).

ELIGIBILITY

All requirements for private companies to obtain authorization as driver license providers, including testing skills and processing licenses, were removed.

REQUIREMENT

The mandatory $300,000 to $1,000,000 bond requirement for private license providers was eliminated.

The department is now required to place warning signs on primitive roads stating they are not regularly maintained and must be used at the user's own risk.

DEFINITION

A new definition for 'primitive road' was added, allowing the director to designate specific state highways as such.

ENFORCEMENT

New liability protections were added, stating the state and its employees are not liable for damages or injuries on primitive roads except in cases of intentional injury or gross negligence.

Introduced Version → House Engrossed Version (06/11/2026) · 5 edits · Jun 12, 2026

MODERATE

The bill was renumbered from a Senate version to a House Engrossed version and its subject matter shifted from primitive road designations to regulating authorized third-party driver license providers. The new text establishes strict requirements for these providers, including mandatory financial bonds, proof of three years of prior authorization, specific transaction volume thresholds, and facility standards for processing licenses.

Scope change

The bill's scope changed entirely from defining state highways and primitive roads to regulating private entities that issue driver licenses and perform title/registration functions.

SCOPE

Removed all provisions regarding the designation of primitive roads, liability limitations for road use, and the definition of state highways.

REQUIREMENT

Added a requirement for authorized third-party providers to post a financial bond ranging from $300,000 to $1,000,000 depending on the number of locations and functions performed.

Added facility and staffing requirements mandating certified processors capable of handling fraud detection, ignition interlocks, and reinstatements.

Added authority for authorized providers to perform administrative and testing functions for commercial driver licenses.

ELIGIBILITY

Added eligibility criteria requiring applicants to have been authorized for at least three years, conduct an average of 1,000 monthly transactions, and maintain good standing with the department.

ADOT; primitive roads; designation

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