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 in-person route works for almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed since your last renewal.
For an in-person renewal, 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 or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address. You do not need to bring a new photo — ADOT will use your existing one unless you request a new photo, which costs extra.
For an online renewal, you'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.
- In-person renewal at any ADOT office requires your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
- ADOT will use your existing photo unless you pay extra for a new one.
- A renewed license is valid for five years from the date of renewal.
- If your license is already expired, you must renew in person; you cannot use the online option.
How long the renewal takes
Online renewal is the fastest option. Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the transaction. You can continue driving on your current license during this time.
In-person renewal at an ADOT office typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. You receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days, and your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Walk-in appointments are available, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time.
Cost of renewal in Arizona
A standard five-year driver's license renewal costs $25. If you want a new photo taken during your in-person visit, add $5 for a total of $30. Payment methods accepted at ADOT offices include cash, debit card, and credit card. Online renewals accept credit and debit cards only.
If you are 65 or older, the renewal fee is $10 for five years. Military members on active duty can renew for free if they present a valid military ID.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for less than one year, you can still renew it through the standard process — either online (if you meet the other conditions) or in person. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test and vision test. Bring the same documents you would for a standard renewal.
Driving on an expired license is illegal in Arizona, even if you have submitted a renewal request. If you are stopped by police, you can show proof that you have applied for renewal, but this does not may provide you will avoid a citation.
Renewing by mail or through a third party
Arizona does not offer mail-in renewal directly through ADOT. However, you can use an authorized third-party service to renew in person on your behalf. These services charge a fee above the standard $25 renewal cost — typically $15 to $30 extra — and handle the paperwork and office visit for you. You will still need to provide your documents and payment to the service.
Some MVD Now kiosks located in certain retail locations also offer renewal services. These kiosks accept the same documents as ADOT offices and charge the same fee. Check the ADOT website to find kiosks near you.
Changing your address during renewal
If you have moved since your last renewal, bring a document showing your new Arizona address dated within 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement. You cannot change your address online; address changes must happen during an in-person renewal or through a separate address-change transaction at an ADOT office.
If you need to change your address before your renewal is due, you can do so at any ADOT office without renewing your license. This costs $5 and takes about 10 minutes.
Special situations: Medical restrictions and endorsements
If your current license has medical restrictions (such as corrective lenses required or hearing aid required), you cannot renew online. You must renew in person so ADOT can verify that your medical condition has not changed. Bring any documentation your doctor provided when the restriction was first added.
If your license has endorsements — such as a motorcycle endorsement or commercial driver's license (CDL) — you cannot renew online. Endorsements require in-person renewal and may require additional testing or documentation depending on the type of endorsement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. Arizona allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early does not extend your license's expiration date — your new license will still expire five years from the date of renewal, not five years from your old expiration date.
What if I lost my current license?
You cannot renew a lost license online. You must go to an ADOT office in person and request a replacement. Bring your proof of residency and Social Security number. A replacement costs $5, and you receive a temporary paper license on the spot.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Walk-in appointments are available at all ADOT offices, but scheduling ahead online reduces your wait time. You can schedule an appointment through the ADOT website. Peak times are typically mid-morning and mid-afternoon on weekdays.
What if my name has changed since my last renewal?
You must renew in person and bring legal documentation of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. ADOT will update your name during the renewal process at no extra cost.
How do I know if I'm may be able to access for online renewal?
Your license must not be expired, you must have no medical restrictions, and your address must be the same as what ADOT has on file. If you are unsure, start the online renewal process — the system will tell you when ready if you do not meet the requirements, and you can then schedule an in-person appointment instead.