Arizona Rules of Civil Procedure
Does a process server have to be licensed in Arizona?
Arizona has statewide registration of process servers in compliance with procedures set forth by the Arizona Supreme Court. Applicants must pass a written examination. A private process server or specially appointed person shall be not less than twenty-one (21) years of age and shall not be a party, an attorney, or the employee of an attorney in the action whose process is being served.
Arizona Rules of Civil Procedure
Please note that lobbyists are active in the state of Arizona and laws concerning civil procedure and process serving can change. Therefore, the information listed below may have been amended. For updated process serving legislation, please visit the Arizona State Legislature.
Rule 4(d). Process; By Whom Served
Service of process shall be by a sheriff, a sheriff’s deputy, a private process server registered with the clerk of the court, or any other person specially appointed by the court. A private process server must be at least 21 years old and cannot be a party or attorney involved in the case.
Rule 4(e). Statewide Registration of Private Process Servers
A person may become a registered private process server by filing an approved application with the court and meeting all requirements set by the Arizona Supreme Court. Once approved, the process server may serve anywhere within the state.
Rule 4(g). Return of Service
If service is not waived, proof of service must be filed with the court. Sheriffs provide an official return, while private process servers must submit an affidavit including the county of registration.
Rule 4(i). Time Limit for Service
Service must be completed within 120 days after filing the complaint. If not, the case may be dismissed unless good cause is shown.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona requires statewide registration for private process servers
- Process servers must be 21+ years old
- They must pass an exam and meet court requirements
- Service can be completed by sheriffs, deputies, or registered private servers
- Proof of service is required unless waived
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