Arizona driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it to last
Arizona charges different amounts based on whether you are getting a standard license, a commercial license, or an ID card, and whether you choose a 5-year or 12-year term. A standard driver's license costs less than a commercial one. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) sets these fees, and they cover the cost of issuing the document and maintaining the system that tracks licenses statewide.
The fee you pay at the time of issuance is separate from any other costs you might encounter — such as fees for a duplicate license, a replacement after suspension, or an address change. Some transactions are free; others carry their own charge.
Key Takeaways
- Standard Arizona driver's licenses cost one amount for a 5-year term and a higher amount for a 12-year term, with the longer option available only to drivers 65 and older or those with certain medical conditions.
- Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) cost more than standard licenses and require passing additional tests through ADOT.
- You pay the license fee when you visit an ADOT office or an authorized third-party location to get your license issued or renewed.
- Duplicate licenses, address changes, and corrections to your record each have their own separate fees set by ADOT.
- ADOT accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most locations, though payment methods may vary by office.
Standard driver's license fees in Arizona
A standard Arizona driver's license for a 5-year term costs a set amount that ADOT publishes on its website. If you are 65 or older, or if you have a medical condition that qualifies you under Arizona law, you may be able to get a 12-year license at a higher fee. The 12-year option is not available to all drivers — age and medical status determine may be able to access.
When you renew an expiring license, you pay the same fee as you would for a new license. ADOT does not charge a separate renewal fee; the cost is the same whether you are getting your first license or your fifth.
Commercial driver's license (CDL) fees
A commercial driver's license costs more than a standard license because it requires additional testing and background review. The fee covers the written exam, the skills test, and the medical certification review that ADOT conducts for commercial drivers. You must pass both the written and driving portions of the CDL test before ADOT issues the license.
If you already hold a standard Arizona license and are adding a CDL, you will pay the CDL fee at the time you pass your tests. If you are upgrading from a standard license to a CDL, ADOT may credit part of your existing license fee toward the new one, depending on how much time remains on your current license.
Duplicate and replacement license fees
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a duplicate at an ADOT office or authorized location. A duplicate license costs less than a new license and is issued on the spot in most cases. You will need to show identification and pay the duplicate fee.
If your license was suspended or revoked and you are now may be able to access to drive again, you may need to pay a reinstatement fee in addition to the cost of a new license. Reinstatement fees are separate from the license fee itself and go toward administrative costs of lifting the suspension.
Address changes and record corrections
Changing your address on your Arizona license is free if you do it online through ADOT's website or by mail. You do not need to visit an office or pay a fee. If you change your address in person at an ADOT office, there is no charge for the address change itself.
Corrections to your name, date of birth, or other personal information on your license may be free or may carry a small fee depending on the type of error and whether it requires a new photo. Contact ADOT directly or visit an office to learn what applies to your situation.
Where to pay and what payment methods ADOT accepts
You pay your license fee when you visit an ADOT office or an authorized third-party location such as certain MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) offices or private vendors. Most ADOT locations accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some locations may accept only certain payment methods, so calling ahead can save a trip.
ADOT does not allow you to pay your license fee online in advance. You must pay at the time you appear for your appointment or walk-in visit. If you are renewing by mail, you will include payment with your process materials.
How license fees compare to other vehicle-related costs in Arizona
The driver's license fee is separate from vehicle registration fees, title fees, and emissions testing fees. If you own a vehicle in Arizona, you will pay registration and title fees to ADOT in addition to your license fee. A motorcycle license carries a different fee than a standard car license. Learner's permits have their own fee as well.
Some Arizona counties or cities may charge local fees for certain services, but the driver's license fee itself is set by ADOT statewide and does not vary by county or city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Arizona driver's license fee online?
No. You must pay your license fee in person at an ADOT office or authorized location, or by mail if you are renewing by mail. ADOT does not accept online payment for license fees at this time.
What happens if I don't pay the license fee?
If you do not pay the fee, ADOT will not issue or renew your license. You cannot drive legally without a valid license, so payment is required before you receive your license document.
Is there a fee to renew my license by mail?
The license fee itself is the same whether you renew in person or by mail. You include your payment with your mail-in process. Some mail-in renewals may have a small processing fee in addition to the license fee; check ADOT's website for current mail-in renewal costs.
Do I have to pay the full license fee if my license is about to expire?
Yes. ADOT charges the full fee regardless of how much time remains on your current license. There is no prorated or reduced fee for licenses expiring soon.
What if I'm a military member stationed in Arizona?
Military members can renew their Arizona license for an extended term at no additional cost in some cases. Contact ADOT or visit an office with your military ID to learn what options are available to you.