Arizona driver's licenses are valid for 12 years if you're under 65, and 5 years if you're 65 or older
Your Arizona driver's license expiration date is printed on the front of the card. Most people renew every 12 years, but Arizona gives you a grace period: you can drive for up to 6 months after your license expires while you're waiting for a replacement. However, you cannot legally drive with an expired license beyond that 6-month window, and you risk a traffic citation if stopped.
The 5-year renewal cycle for drivers 65 and older exists because Arizona law requires more frequent medical reviews for this age group. You'll receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires, which gives you time to schedule an appointment at an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office or an authorized third-party provider.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona driver's licenses expire after 12 years for people under 65, and after 5 years for people 65 and older.
- You can legally drive for up to 6 months after your license expires while you complete the renewal process.
- ADOT will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration, and you can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation.
- If your license has been expired for more than 6 months, you must take a written test and vision test to restore it, not just renew it.
What happens when your license expires
Your license becomes invalid on the date printed on the front. That date is your birthday in the year of expiration—for example, if you were born on March 15, your license expires on March 15 of the renewal year. Arizona's 6-month grace period means you won't face criminal charges if you're pulled over during those 6 months, but a police officer can still cite you for driving with an expired license, which carries a fine.
After the 6-month grace period ends, your license is no longer valid for any driving purpose. Driving with an expired license beyond 6 months is a civil traffic violation in Arizona and can result in a fine. If you're involved in an accident during this time, your insurance may deny a claim because you were driving illegally.
How to renew before expiration
ADOT offers three renewal methods: online, by mail, or in person. The online option is the fastest and works if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed. You'll pay the renewal fee (currently $25 for a 12-year license for those under 65), and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Mail renewal requires you to complete an process form (DL 44), include a copy of your current license, and mail it to ADOT with payment. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person renewal at an ADOT office or authorized third-party location (such as some MVD services offices) is when ready—you'll receive your new license the same day if you pass the vision test and have all required documents.
You'll need to bring your current license, proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or tribal ID), and proof of Arizona residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). If you've changed your name, you'll also need a certified copy of the document showing the change.
What to do if your license has already expired
If your license expired more than 6 months ago, you cannot straightforward renew—you must restore it. Restoration requires an in-person visit to an ADOT office or authorized third-party provider. You'll need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test covering Arizona traffic laws. The written test is the same one new drivers take, so you should review the Arizona Driver License Manual before your appointment.
Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The fee for restoration is the same as renewal ($25 for a 12-year license). After you pass both tests, you'll receive your new license when ready. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment.
Renewing when you turn 65
If you're approaching 65, your next renewal will shift to a 5-year cycle instead of 12 years. You don't need to do anything special—ADOT will automatically issue a 5-year license when you renew at or after age 65. The renewal process is the same (online, by mail, or in person), but the fee structure may differ slightly for the shorter validity period.
Arizona requires the 5-year renewal for drivers 65 and older because the state conducts periodic medical reviews to may support older drivers can safely operate a vehicle. You may be asked to report any medical conditions or medications that could affect your driving ability. If ADOT has concerns, they may require you to take a driving test or provide a medical evaluation from your doctor.
Special cases: medical restrictions and suspensions
If your license has medical restrictions (such as corrective lenses required or automatic transmission only), those restrictions renew with your license. You must continue to follow them—driving without the required correction or in a vehicle type you're not cleared for is a violation. If your medical situation has changed, you can update your restrictions during renewal by providing a new medical evaluation form from your doctor.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must visit an ADOT office in person, and you may be required to provide proof that the suspension or revocation has been lifted (such as proof of payment for unpaid traffic fines or completion of a required course). The suspension or revocation must be cleared before a new license can be issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive during the 6-month grace period after my license expires?
Yes, you can legally drive for up to 6 months after expiration while you're renewing. However, you should carry proof that you've submitted a renewal process (such as your renewal notice or online confirmation) in case you're stopped. After 6 months, you cannot drive legally.
What if I move out of Arizona before my license expires?
Your Arizona license remains valid until the expiration date printed on it, even if you move to another state. However, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state within the timeframe required by that state's law (usually 30 to 60 days). Driving with an out-of-state license in your new state may result in a citation.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person at an ADOT office?
Appointments are not required but are strongly recommended because walk-in wait times can be 1 to 2 hours. You can schedule an appointment online through the ADOT website. Some authorized third-party providers accept walk-ins with shorter wait times.
What if I fail the vision test at renewal?
If you fail the vision test, you cannot receive a new license until you correct the problem. You can return with corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) and retake the test the same day. If you cannot pass even with correction, ADOT may issue a license with a restriction requiring corrective lenses.
How much does it cost to renew my Arizona driver's license?
The renewal fee is $25 for a 12-year license (for those under 65) and varies for the 5-year license issued at age 65 and older. Fees may change, so check the ADOT website for current pricing. Online and mail renewal cost the same as in-person renewal.