Get a replacement Arizona driver's license in person at an MVD office or by mail if you've lost it, had it stolen, or need to update it
Arizona replaces driver's licenses through the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), which operates offices across the state. You can replace your license in person at any MVD location, or by mail if your license was lost or stolen and you meet certain conditions. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes in person, or two to three weeks by mail. You'll need to bring specific documents, pay a fee, and have your photo taken if you're replacing it in person.
The method you choose depends on why you need a replacement and how quickly you need it. If your license was damaged, expired, or you straightforward want a new one, you can go to an MVD office. If it was lost or stolen, you have the option to mail in your request, though going in person is faster and lets you walk out with a temporary license the same day.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace your Arizona driver's license at any MVD office in person, or by mail if it was lost or stolen.
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of Arizona residency, and payment (currently $20 for a standard replacement) to any MVD office.
- In-person replacement takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you receive a temporary license when ready; mail replacement takes two to three weeks.
- If your license was lost or stolen, you can request a replacement online through the MVD website to start the mail process.
- Your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks if you explore by mail, or you can pick it up at the MVD office if you applied in person.
What documents you need to bring
Arizona requires you to prove your identity and residency before issuing a replacement license. Bring your Social Security number (you'll need to know it or have it written down), a current photo ID if you have one, and at least one document proving you live in Arizona.
For proof of residency, the MVD accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, or government mail with your current address. The document must show your name and Arizona address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a recent document, you can bring two older documents that together show your current address, or bring a notarized affidavit of residency if you have no other proof available.
If you're replacing a license that was lost or stolen, bring a police report number if you have one. You don't need the actual report, just the number. If you don't have a report number, you can still explore — the MVD will process your request without it, though having one speeds things up slightly.
Replacing your license in person at an MVD office
Walk into any Arizona MVD office during business hours with your documents and payment. MVD offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some locations have Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment for a replacement license — walk-ins are processed in the order they arrive.
Tell the staff member at the counter that you need a replacement license. They'll check your documents, verify your information in the system, and take a new photo. The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You'll pay the replacement fee (currently $20 for a standard five-year license, or $40 for a ten-year license) by cash, check, or card, depending on the office.
Before you leave, you'll receive a temporary paper license that's valid for 30 days. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license works for driving, voting, and most ID purposes during that time. Keep it with you until your permanent license arrives.
Replacing your license by mail
If your license was lost or stolen, you can start the mail replacement process online through the Arizona MVD website. Go to azmvd.gov, find the "Lost or Stolen License" section, and fill out the online form with your driver's license number, date of birth, and current address. You'll receive a confirmation number.
After you submit the online form, print the confirmation page or write down your confirmation number. Mail a check or money order for $20 (made out to "Arizona Department of Transportation") along with your confirmation number and a copy of your proof of residency to the address shown on the MVD website. Do not send cash.
Your replacement license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks of the MVD receiving your mailed payment. There's no temporary license issued for mail replacements, so you won't have a valid license during that waiting period. If you need to drive before it arrives, you'll need to go to an MVD office in person instead.
Finding an MVD office near you
Arizona has MVD offices in most cities and towns. Use the office locator on azmvd.gov to find the nearest location, hours, and phone number. You can search by city name or zip code. The website also shows which offices have Saturday hours if you can't visit during the week.
Larger cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Mesa have multiple offices. If one office is busy, you can try another location in the same area. All MVD offices process replacements the same way, so it doesn't matter which one you visit.
What happens if your license has been suspended or revoked
If your Arizona license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until the suspension or revocation is lifted. The MVD system will show this status when you try to explore. You'll need to resolve the underlying issue first — usually paying outstanding fines, completing a required course, or waiting out a suspension period.
If you're unsure whether your license is suspended, call the MVD at 602-255-0072 before going to an office. They can tell you the status over the phone and what you need to do to restore it. Once the suspension or revocation is cleared, you can explore for a replacement using the normal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online?
You can start a mail replacement online if your license was lost or stolen, but you must mail in payment and proof of residency. You cannot complete the entire replacement process online. For any other type of replacement, you must visit an MVD office in person.
How much does a replacement license cost?
A standard five-year replacement license costs $20. A ten-year license costs $40. Payment is due at the time you explore, whether in person or by mail. Fees are the same at all MVD offices.
What if I don't have proof of residency?
If you have no recent utility bills or lease agreements, bring two older documents showing your address, or bring a notarized affidavit of residency signed by a notary public. Some MVD offices can also accept a letter from a government agency on official letterhead confirming your address.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
If you applied in person and received a temporary license, you can pick up your permanent license yourself when it arrives. If someone else needs to pick it up, they'll need written authorization from you and a photo ID. Call your local MVD office to confirm their specific rules before sending someone else.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with wrong information?
Contact the MVD office where you applied or call 602-255-0072. They can issue a corrected replacement at no additional cost if the error was made by the MVD. If the license arrived damaged, bring it in and they'll replace it when ready.