You can get an Arizona driver's license at any Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office, at an authorized third-party provider, or by mail for renewals

Arizona issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation, which operates a network of offices across the state. You can visit an ADOT office in person, use one of the authorized third-party locations (mostly in grocery stores and vehicle service centers), or renew by mail if you meet specific conditions. The method you choose depends on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card.

In-person visits are required for first-time licenses, commercial licenses, and most changes to your existing license. Third-party locations offer shorter wait times for some transactions but cannot handle all license types. Mail renewal works only if your license is still valid, you have not changed your address, and you do not need a new photo.

Key Takeaways

  • ADOT offices are located in every county and handle all license types, but wait times can be long during peak hours.
  • Third-party providers like Fry's, Safeway, and Valvoline can issue standard licenses faster but cannot issue commercial licenses or handle certain address changes.
  • Mail renewal is available only if your current license is valid, your address has not changed, and you do not need a new photo.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number for any in-person transaction.

ADOT offices and their locations

The Arizona Department of Transportation operates full-service driver license offices in Maricopa, Pima, Pinal, Coconino, Yavapai, Mohave, Navajo, Apache, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochise counties. The main office in Phoenix is located at 1801 W. Jefferson Street, but every county has at least one location. You can find the full list of office addresses and hours on the ADOT website under "Driver License Services."

Wait times vary significantly by location and time of day. Phoenix and Tucson offices typically have longer waits, especially on Thursdays and Fridays. Many offices now offer online appointment scheduling, which reserves your place in line and can reduce wait time from several hours to 30 minutes or less. Check the ADOT website to see whether your local office offers appointments.

ADOT offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with some locations offering extended hours one evening per week. Saturday hours are not available at ADOT offices themselves, though some third-party providers operate on Saturdays.

Third-party license providers in Arizona

Arizona authorizes certain retail and service locations to issue standard driver's licenses without the long waits at ADOT offices. These include Fry's Food Stores, Safeway, Bashas', Valvoline when ready Oil Change, and several independent vehicle service centers. Not all locations in these chains offer license services, so you will need to call ahead or check the ADOT website for a list of participating locations near you.

Third-party providers can issue new standard licenses, renewals, and replacements, and many have shorter wait times than ADOT offices. However, they cannot issue commercial driver's licenses, handle certain address changes, or process transactions that require a supervisor's judgment. If your transaction involves anything beyond a straightforward renewal or replacement, you will need to go to an ADOT office.

The fee for a license is the same whether you go to ADOT or a third-party provider. Third-party locations may charge a small service fee on top of the state fee, typically between $5 and $10. Call ahead to confirm the total cost and whether they accept the payment method you plan to use.

Mail renewal for existing licenses

You can renew your Arizona driver's license by mail if your current license is still valid, you have not moved, and you do not need a new photo. The renewal form is DL 43, available on the ADOT website. You will mail the completed form, your current license, and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form.

Mail renewal typically takes three to four weeks from the time ADOT receives your process. If you need your license sooner, you must go in person to an ADOT office or third-party provider. Mail renewal is not available if your license has expired, if you have changed your address, or if you are renewing a commercial license.

Documents you need for an in-person visit

For a first-time license or any in-person transaction, bring proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, or tribal ID. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Arizona address.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that reflects the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring your current license if you have one, even if it is expired.

ADOT offices do not accept documents by mail for initial applications. You must appear in person for your photo and to sign the process under oath.

Commercial driver's license requirements

A commercial driver's license (CDL) is required to operate a truck, bus, or vehicle carrying hazardous materials. You cannot obtain a CDL at a third-party provider—you must go to an ADOT office. You will need to pass a written knowledge test, a skills test, and a medical examination before ADOT will issue a CDL.

The knowledge test covers vehicle operation, safety, and the specific endorsements you need (such as hazmat or passenger). The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test. You must pass all three components before your CDL is issued. ADOT offers study materials and practice tests on its website.

The medical examination must be performed by a certified medical examiner and cannot be done at the ADOT office. You will need to find an examiner on your own, have them complete the form, and bring the results to your ADOT appointment.

Replacing a lost or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at an ADOT office or third-party provider. Bring your proof of identity and proof of residency, just as you would for a renewal. If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police, though this is not required to obtain a replacement.

A replacement license costs the same as a renewal and is issued on the spot at ADOT offices. Third-party providers can also issue replacements when ready in most cases. You do not need to take a new photo or retake any tests unless your license has expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a driver's license at an ADOT office?

Wait times range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the location and time of day. If you book an online appointment, you can typically reduce your wait to 30 minutes or less. Without an appointment, expect longer waits during mid-morning and afternoon hours on weekdays.

Can I renew my license online?

Arizona does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is still valid and your address has not changed, or you can renew in person at an ADOT office or third-party provider. Some third-party locations have faster service than ADOT offices.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of your ITIN, such as a tax return or IRS letter. You will also need the same proof of identity and residency as anyone else.

Do I need an appointment at an ADOT office?

Appointments are not required, but they are strongly recommended. Many ADOT offices allow you to schedule online, which reserves your place in line. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours, especially during peak times.

Can I get a license at a third-party location if I am under 18?

Third-party providers can issue licenses to minors, but a parent or guardian must be present to sign the process. Not all third-party locations handle minor licenses, so call ahead to confirm.