How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Arizona Driver's License

Where to go and what you'll need

In Arizona, you replace a lost or damaged driver's license through the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). You can do this in person at any ADOT office, by mail, or online through the ADOT website — though the online option is fastest if your license was lost rather than damaged.

Before you go or submit anything, gather these documents: your current Arizona driver's license (if you still have it), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If your license was stolen, bring a police report.

The replacement fee is $12 for a standard license valid for five years. If your license is damaged but still in your possession, you can surrender it at an ADOT office and walk out with a replacement the same day in most cases. If it's lost, the timeline depends on which method you choose.

Key Takeaways

ADOT handles all Arizona driver's license replacements, and you can do it in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation.
You will need proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address dated within 60 days, and the $12 replacement fee.
The online replacement process takes about one week if your license was lost; in-person replacement at an ADOT office is same-day in most locations.
If your license was stolen, bring a police report to speed up the process and protect yourself from identity issues.

Replacing your license online

The online replacement option is available only if your license was lost, not damaged. Go to the ADOT website and select the "Replace Lost License" option. You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.

Once verified, you pay the $12 fee by credit or debit card. ADOT will mail your replacement license to the address on file. This usually takes five to seven business days from the time you submit your request. You do not need to upload documents online — ADOT already has your address and Social Security information on file from your original license process.

If your address has changed since you got your current license, you cannot use the online option. You will need to go in person or mail in your request with proof of your new address.

Replacing your license in person at an ADOT office

Walk-in service is available at ADOT offices throughout Arizona. Bring your proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), proof of your current address, and the $12 fee. If your license is damaged, bring it with you. If it is lost, bring a police report if you have one.

ADOT offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some locations have extended hours. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the ADOT website. Wait times vary by location and time of day — calling ahead can give you a sense of how busy it is.

If you are replacing a damaged license and you have it with you, you will usually receive your replacement the same day. If you are replacing a lost license, ADOT will mail it to you, which takes five to seven business days.

Replacing your license by mail

You can mail in a replacement request if you prefer not to visit an office. Send a letter to ADOT that includes your full name, date of birth, current address, and driver's license number. Include a copy of your proof of Social Security number and proof of your current address. Write a check or money order for $12 payable to ADOT.

Mail your packet to the ADOT address listed on their website (this changes by region, so verify before sending). Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want ADOT to send you a confirmation. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person or online — typically two to three weeks from the time ADOT receives your request.

If your license was stolen, include a copy of the police report. This helps ADOT flag your record and can prevent someone else from using your information to get a duplicate license.

What to do if you need to drive before your replacement arrives

Arizona does not issue a temporary paper license while you wait for your replacement. However, you can request an ADOT-issued ID card (not a driver's license) at any ADOT office if you need a form of identification when ready. This is a separate document and costs $12, the same as a license replacement.

If you need to drive legally before your replacement arrives, your options are limited. Some insurance companies will issue a temporary proof-of-insurance document if you call and explain the situation, though this is not a substitute for a license. Your best option is to avoid driving until your replacement arrives, or to have someone else drive while you are a passenger.

If your license was stolen or you suspect identity theft

File a police report as soon as you realize your license is stolen. Bring the report with you when you replace your license — it tells ADOT to flag your record and makes it harder for someone to fraudulently request a duplicate in your name.

After you file the report, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place one for free by calling any of the three bureaus; they will notify the others.

Monitor your credit report for suspicious activity. You can order a free report once per year from annualcreditreport.com, which is the official site run by the three bureaus. If you see accounts you did not open, contact the creditor and the Federal Trade Commission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if it is suspended or revoked?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve the underlying issue first — usually paying fines, completing a course, or waiting out a suspension period. ADOT will not issue a replacement until your driving record is clear. Contact ADOT to find out what you need to do to lift the suspension.

What if my name has changed since I got my current license?

You will need to go in person to an ADOT office and bring proof of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot do this online or by mail. Bring the same documents as a regular replacement (proof of Social Security number and current address) plus the name change document and the $12 fee.

How long is a replacement Arizona driver's license valid?

A standard replacement license is valid for five years from the date of issue. If you are over 65, your license is valid for ten years. Check the expiration date on your replacement when it arrives to confirm.

What if I never received my replacement license in the mail?

Contact ADOT to report it. They can check whether it was mailed and to what address. If it was lost in the mail, ADOT can reissue it. If it was mailed to an old address, you may need to go in person with proof of your current address to get a corrected replacement sent out.

Can I replace my license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You need proof of legal presence in the United States — a visa, green card, work permit, or other immigration document. Bring this along with your proof of Social Security number and current address. The process and fee are the same as for citizens.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.