Accurate gene regulation requires transcription factors (TFs) to rapidly locate specific DNA sequences among vast amounts of non-cognate DNA. This process involves facilitated diffusion mechanisms such as sliding, hopping, and intersegmental transfer. Here, we investigate the DNA search mechanism of AP1 transcription factors (cFos and cJun) members of the bZIP family involved in key cellular processes and cancer progression. While the cFos:cJun heterodimer is well studied, less is known about their homodimeric forms and how these complexes locate target sequences such as TRE and CRE motifs. Using an in vitro single-molecule imaging approach with Qdot-labeled proteins and DNA tightropes, we directly visualized AP1–DNA interactions. We observed that cJun and cFos:cJun complexes use rotationally coupled sliding to move along DNA. Although their movement appeared random overall, detailed analysis using a novel segmentation tool revealed discrete pausing events. These pauses suggest that AP1 complexes interrogate DNA during sliding, possibly at cognate or near-cognate sites. Further experiments indicated that specific DNA sequences may serve as loading sites for AP1. This work not only elucidates the search dynamics of AP1 transcription factors but also introduces an analytical method for dissecting 1D diffusion at a finer scale, offering new insights into transcription factor–DNA target recognition.