Arizona driver's license replacement costs $12 for a standard five-year license

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) charges a flat $12 fee to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license. This is the same cost whether you're replacing it in person at an ADOT office or by mail. The fee covers the new card itself and processing.

If your license has expired and you need to renew it at the same time you're replacing it, you'll pay the renewal fee instead of the replacement fee — currently $12 for a five-year license. You cannot pay both fees for a single transaction.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard Arizona driver's license replacement costs $12, paid at the time you submit your request.
  • You can replace your license in person at any ADOT office or by mail, and the fee is the same either way.
  • If your license has also expired, you pay the renewal fee ($12) instead of the replacement fee.
  • Payment methods at ADOT offices include cash, check, debit card, and credit card; mail-in requests require a check or money order.

In-person replacement at an ADOT office

Walking into an ADOT office and replacing your license on the spot takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the location is. You'll pay the $12 fee at the counter when you hand over your documents. Bring your Social Security number, proof of Arizona residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and proof of identity if you don't have your old license.

ADOT offices accept cash, personal checks, debit cards, and credit cards. You'll receive your new license before you leave — it's printed on-site. Find the office nearest you on the ADOT website by entering your city or ZIP code.

Mail-in replacement by post

You can mail in a replacement request if you have your old license or a copy of it. Fill out form DL 43 (available on the ADOT website), include a check or money order for $12 made payable to "ADOT," and mail everything to the address listed on the form. ADOT does not accept credit cards or debit cards for mail requests.

Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after ADOT receives your envelope. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address you provide. If you're in a hurry, in-person replacement is faster.

What happens if your license was stolen

A stolen license costs the same $12 to replace as a lost one. However, you may want to file a police report first — some people do this to protect themselves if the license is used fraudulently. A police report number isn't required by ADOT, but it creates a record in case someone tries to use your old license.

When you go to ADOT, tell the staff member your license was stolen. They'll flag the old license as invalid in the system so it cannot be used for identification or to obtain benefits elsewhere.

Damaged or unreadable licenses

If your license is still readable but damaged — torn, faded, or water-damaged — you can replace it for $12. ADOT will accept the old card as proof that you held a valid license. If the card is so damaged that ADOT staff cannot read your information, bring additional proof of identity and residency instead.

Replacement for damage is treated the same as replacement for loss, so the fee and timeline are identical whether you go in person or by mail.

Duplicate licenses and extra copies

If you want a second copy of your current valid license — for example, to keep at home while carrying one in your wallet — you can request a duplicate for $12. This is not a replacement; your original license remains active. You'll need to be present in person at an ADOT office to request a duplicate, and you'll receive it before you leave.

A duplicate is useful if you're worried about losing your only copy, but it does not change your license number or expiration date. Both cards are equally valid for identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to replace my license in person?

ADOT offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis at most locations, but some offices now offer online appointment scheduling. Check the ADOT website for your local office to see if appointments are available. Walk-ins are still accepted, but an appointment can reduce your wait time.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

ADOT requires current proof of residency — usually a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days. If you don't have one, you can bring two documents that together show your name and address, such as a piece of mail from a government agency and a credit card statement. Call your local ADOT office to confirm what they'll accept.

Can I replace my license if it's expired?

Yes, but you'll pay the renewal fee ($12) instead of the replacement fee. ADOT treats an expired license that needs to be replaced as a renewal, not a separate transaction. The process and timeline are the same.

How long does a replacement license take if I go by mail?

ADOT processes mail-in requests within 7 to 10 business days of receiving your envelope. Delivery time depends on the postal service, so allow an additional 3 to 5 business days for your new license to arrive. In-person replacement is faster if you need your license urgently.

What if my name has changed since my old license was issued?

Bring proof of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your other documents. ADOT will issue a new license with your current legal name. The replacement fee remains $12.