Where to go and what to bring
To replace your Arizona driver's license, you will go to an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office in person. You cannot do this by mail or online. ADOT runs the Motor Vehicle Division, and they have office locations throughout the state — you can find the one nearest you on their website by entering your city or ZIP code.
Bring these documents with you: your current Arizona driver's license (or the one you're replacing), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. For proof of address, ADOT accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If your name has changed since your current license was issued, bring a document showing that change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You do not need to schedule an appointment at most ADOT offices, but some locations do take appointments through their website. Calling ahead to ask about wait times is worth doing, especially if you're going during lunch hours or on a Friday.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit an ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office in person with your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.
- The replacement fee is $12 for a standard five-year license or $24 for a ten-year license, paid at the office when you explore.
- You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your new plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
- If your license was lost or stolen, report it to ADOT at the same time you request a replacement.
Cost and payment methods
The replacement fee depends on which type of license you want. A standard five-year license costs $12. A ten-year license costs $24. ADOT accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at the office. Some locations may accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm is safer.
If you are replacing a license that was lost or stolen, the fee is the same — there is no additional charge for a replacement due to loss or theft. You will still pay only the standard renewal fee.
What happens at the office
When you arrive at the ADOT office, you will check in and wait to be called. A staff member will review your documents, take a new photo for your license, and collect your fee. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
Before you leave, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid when ready. This temporary license works for driving, getting on a plane, or any other purpose where you would normally use your driver's license. Your new plastic card will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive after three weeks, contact ADOT to report it.
If your license was lost or stolen
Tell the ADOT staff member that your license was lost or stolen when you arrive at the office. They will note this in the system, and your old license number will be deactivated. This prevents someone else from using your old license information.
You do not need to file a police report to replace a lost or stolen license, though you may want to do so if you are concerned about identity theft. If your license was stolen along with other documents or personal information, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to monitor for unauthorized accounts opened in your name.
Replacing a license with a different address
If you have moved since your current license was issued, bring proof of your new address to the ADOT office. Your new license will show your current address. You do not need to do anything special — just provide the address proof along with your other documents, and the staff member will update your information when they process your replacement.
If you have moved out of state and no longer live in Arizona, you cannot renew or replace an Arizona license. You will need to get a license from your new state instead.
Replacing a license with a name change
If your name has changed since your current license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or a legal name change — bring the document that shows the change. ADOT accepts marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders. The document must be an official copy, not a photocopy you made yourself.
Your new license will show your current legal name. The process is the same as a standard replacement; you just add the name-change document to your pile of paperwork. The fee remains $12 or $24 depending on which license term you choose.
What to do if you cannot go in person
ADOT requires you to appear in person for a license replacement. There is no way around this requirement. If you are unable to visit an office yourself due to a medical condition or disability, contact ADOT directly to ask about accommodations. Some offices may be able to work with you on scheduling or accessibility.
If you are out of state temporarily, you will need to wait until you return to Arizona to replace your license. A temporary license from another state will not work as a replacement for your Arizona license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online or by mail?
No. Arizona requires you to appear in person at an ADOT office with your documents. You cannot complete a replacement through the mail or online.
How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?
Your new plastic license card arrives within two to three weeks of your visit. You receive a temporary paper license when ready that you can use right away for driving and identification.
What if my address is wrong on my current license?
Bring proof of your correct current address to the ADOT office. The staff member will update your address when they process your replacement, and your new license will show the correct address.
Do I need an appointment to replace my license?
Most ADOT offices do not require appointments, but some locations do take them. Check the ADOT website for your local office to see if appointments are available or recommended. Calling ahead to ask about wait times is also helpful.
What if my new license does not arrive after three weeks?
Contact ADOT and provide your temporary license number. They can track your replacement and resend it if needed. Keep your temporary paper license until your plastic card arrives.