Where to renew and what you'll need
You can renew your Arizona driver's license in person at any Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office, or online through the ADOT website if you meet certain conditions. The online option is faster — you can complete it from home in about 10 minutes — but it's only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed since your last renewal.
If you renew in person, bring your current driver's license, proof of Arizona residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. You'll also need to pass a vision test. If you're renewing online, you'll need your license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than in-person renewal, but only works if your license is current and you have no medical restrictions.
- In-person renewal at an ADOT office requires your current license, proof of residency, and a vision test, and typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you renew, whether you choose online or in-person.
- Arizona licenses are valid for five years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
Renewing online through the ADOT website
Go to the ADOT website and select the online renewal option. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm whether you're may be able to access for online renewal — if you have medical restrictions or an expired license, you'll be directed to renew in person instead.
Once you've confirmed your may be able to access, review your personal information and address. If anything has changed, you cannot complete the online renewal and must go to an ADOT office. If everything is correct, you'll pay the renewal fee by debit card or credit card. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
Renewing in person at an ADOT office
Find your nearest ADOT office on the ADOT website and check the office's hours before you go — some locations have limited hours or are closed certain days. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and be prepared to pass a vision test. You do not need to make an appointment at most offices, but some locations allow you to reserve a time slot online to reduce wait time.
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and take a number. A staff member will verify your documents, take your photo, and administer the vision test. If you pass, you'll pay the renewal fee and receive a receipt. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use the receipt as a temporary proof of license until your new card arrives.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online — you must renew in person at an ADOT office. Bring the same documents you would for a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and be ready for a vision test. The process is the same as a regular renewal, and the fee is the same.
If your license expired more than five years ago, ADOT may require you to retake the written knowledge test in addition to the vision test. Call your local ADOT office before you go to confirm what tests you'll need to take.
Renewal fees and payment methods
Online renewal costs $20 and can be paid by debit card or credit card. In-person renewal costs $25 and can be paid by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Some ADOT offices accept exact change only for cash payments, so bring a card as a backup.
If you're renewing by mail (a less common option for standard renewals), the fee is $20 and must be paid by check or money order. Mail renewals take longer — typically 3 to 4 weeks — so this option is rarely used unless you're unable to visit an office or use the online system.
What to do if you've changed your address
If you've moved since your last renewal, you must renew in person at an ADOT office — you cannot use online renewal. Bring your current license, proof of your new residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. The staff member will update your address in the system during your visit.
Your new license will show your updated address and will be mailed to that address within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license to show your new address before the new card arrives, ask the ADOT staff member for a temporary address change document.
Timeline and what to expect after renewal
After you renew — whether online or in person — your new license is printed and mailed within 1 to 2 business days. Standard mail delivery takes 5 to 8 additional business days, so expect your new license to arrive within 7 to 10 business days total. During this time, your old license remains valid.
If your new license doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact ADOT to check the status. You can track your renewal online using your license number and date of birth. If your license is lost or damaged in the mail, ADOT will reissue it at no additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I'm out of state?
If you're temporarily out of state, you can renew online if you're otherwise may be able to access. If you're moving out of Arizona permanently, you'll need to renew in person before you leave or contact ADOT about out-of-state renewal options. Some states have reciprocal agreements with Arizona, but you'll need to check with ADOT directly.
What if I need my license before the new one arrives?
Your receipt from in-person renewal serves as a temporary proof of license and is valid until your new card arrives. If you renewed online, you can print your receipt and use it as temporary proof. If you need an official replacement before your new license arrives, you can request an expedited reissue at an ADOT office for an additional fee.
Do I need to renew my license if I only changed my name?
A name change alone does not require renewal, but you should update your name in the system at an ADOT office. Bring your current license and a document showing your legal name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.). You can request a new license with the updated name, though it's not required.
What if I have medical restrictions on my current license?
If your license has medical restrictions, you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at an ADOT office. The staff member will review your restrictions and may ask you to provide updated medical documentation from your doctor. Bring any relevant medical forms or letters along with your standard renewal documents.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No, you must renew your license yourself. You cannot authorize someone else to renew on your behalf, even a family member. If you're unable to visit an ADOT office due to a disability or medical condition, contact ADOT to ask about accommodations or alternative renewal options.