Get a replacement license by visiting an Arizona Department of Transportation office with proof of identity and residency
Arizona replaces lost driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation (ADOT), not through the mail or online. You will need to visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person, bring specific documents, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your permanent card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
You cannot renew a lost license by phone, email, or through a third-party service. ADOT handles all replacements directly. If you need to drive before your permanent card arrives, the temporary license is valid for driving and identification purposes.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office in person with a government-issued ID and proof of Arizona residency to replace a lost license.
- The replacement fee is $20 for a standard license, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready and a permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- ADOT offices are located in most Arizona counties, and you can find your nearest location and check wait times on the ADOT website before you go.
- Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted, and you will be turned away if your documents do not meet ADOT requirements.
Documents you need to bring to the Motor Vehicle Division office
ADOT requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of Arizona residency. For identity, bring your original passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a tribal ID card. A photocopy will not work — ADOT staff must see the original document.
For residency, bring one current document with your name and Arizona address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a current utility bill or lease, a recent bank statement or credit card statement with your Arizona address will work. Again, bring the original — a photocopy will be rejected.
If you have changed your name since your original license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. ADOT will not accept a photocopy of a name-change document.
Where to find an ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office and what to expect
ADOT operates Motor Vehicle Division offices in Maricopa, Pima, Pinal, Yavapai, Coconino, Apache, Navajo, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Mohave, Santa Cruz, and Cochise counties. The largest and busiest offices are in Phoenix, Tucson, and Mesa. You can visit any office regardless of where you live — there is no requirement to go to an office in your county.
Check the ADOT website for your nearest office location, hours, and current wait times before you go. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day and day of the week. Mornings on weekdays are usually faster than afternoons or weekends. ADOT does not take appointments for license replacements, so you will be served on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get separated. The staff member will verify your identity and residency, take a new photo, process your replacement fee, and print your temporary paper license. Keep the temporary license with you until your permanent card arrives.
The replacement fee and payment methods
The standard replacement fee for a lost Arizona driver's license is $20. ADOT accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all Motor Vehicle Division offices. Some offices also accept checks, but cash or card is faster and more reliable.
If you are replacing a license that was lost in a natural disaster or emergency declared by the governor, ADOT may waive the fee. Call the office ahead of time or ask the staff member when you arrive if a waiver applies to your situation.
Your temporary license and when your permanent card will arrive
The temporary paper license you receive at the office is a full legal document. You can use it to drive, board a domestic flight, enter federal buildings, and present it as identification anywhere a driver's license is accepted. The temporary is valid until your permanent card arrives.
Your permanent license will be mailed to the address you provide at the Motor Vehicle Division office. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you visit. If you do not receive your card within 14 business days, contact ADOT to check the status. Do not throw away your temporary license until the permanent card arrives — you will need it to drive in the meantime.
What to do if you cannot visit an office in person
Arizona law requires you to appear in person to replace a lost license. There is no exception for out-of-state residents or people who cannot travel. If you are temporarily out of Arizona, you can wait until you return to visit an office. If you are permanently out of state, you will need to return to Arizona or have someone you trust pick up your replacement on your behalf — though ADOT may require a notarized power of attorney form for that.
Call the ADOT Motor Vehicle Division at the office nearest you to ask about the power of attorney requirement before you arrange for someone else to handle the replacement. Requirements can vary by office, and staff can tell you exactly what documents you and your representative will need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement license the same day I visit the office?
You will receive a temporary paper license the same day that is valid for driving and identification. Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary is a full legal license, so you can drive when ready after you leave the office.
What if I lost my license and my passport at the same time?
You will need a different form of government-issued ID to replace your license. A military ID, tribal ID, or certified birth certificate will work. If you do not have any of these, you will need to obtain one first — a certified birth certificate can be ordered from the Arizona Department of Health Services or the state where you were born.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card?
No. ADOT does not require your Social Security card to replace a license. Bring your government-issued ID and proof of residency only. Your Social Security number will be on file from your original license process.
What if my address has changed since I got my license?
Bring a current document showing your new Arizona address as your proof of residency. ADOT will update your address in the system when you replace your license. Your new permanent card will be mailed to the address you provide at the office.
Can I replace my license online or by mail?
No. Arizona requires you to visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person and have a new photo taken. Online and mail replacements are not available for lost licenses. You must appear at an office with your documents and pay the replacement fee in person.