Where to get a replacement Arizona driver's license

You can replace your Arizona driver's license at any Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office. ADOT has locations in most counties, with multiple offices in Phoenix, Tucson, and other larger cities. You can also mail in your replacement request if you meet certain conditions — mainly that your license is not expired by more than five years and you have no changes to report (address, name, medical conditions).

The fastest route is an in-person visit. You walk in, submit your documents, pay the fee, and receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent card arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If you choose to mail your request, processing takes four to six weeks.

Before you go, check the ADOT website for your nearest office and current wait times. Some locations fill up by mid-morning, especially on Fridays and the first week of the month. You can also make an appointment online through the ADOT website, which reserves a specific time slot and usually cuts your wait to 15 to 30 minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace your license in person at any ADOT office or by mail if your license expired fewer than five years ago and you have no changes to report.
  • In-person replacement takes about 15 to 30 minutes with an appointment, or up to two hours without one, and you get a temporary license when ready.
  • Your permanent card arrives by mail in two to three weeks after an in-person visit, or four to six weeks if you mail your request.
  • You will need your current or expired license, proof of Arizona residency, and a valid Social Security number or proof of ineligibility.
  • The replacement fee is $25 for a standard five-year license or $45 for a ten-year license; fees are the same whether you go in person or mail your request.

Documents you need to bring

You must bring your current or expired Arizona driver's license. If you do not have it, you can still replace it, but you will need to bring additional identity documents — typically a passport, birth certificate, or tribal ID. ADOT will ask you to prove your identity one way or another.

You also need proof of Arizona residency. ADOT accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government check, tax return, or vehicle registration also works. The document must show your name and current Arizona address.

Finally, you need your Social Security number or a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are ineligible for a number. ADOT uses this to verify your identity and prevent fraud. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though ADOT can look it up if you know the number.

Replacement fees and payment methods

A standard five-year Arizona driver's license costs $25 to replace. If you want a ten-year license instead, the fee is $45. These prices are the same whether you replace your license in person or by mail.

ADOT offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. If you mail your request, you must include a check or money order made out to ADOT. Do not send cash by mail. Some offices have ATMs on-site if you need cash, but not all do — call ahead if you plan to pay in cash.

When your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen rather than straightforward expired, the replacement process is the same — you still go to an ADOT office or mail in your request with the same documents. You do not need to file a police report first, though you can if you want a record of the theft.

One difference: if your license was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you can request a new license number at the same time. This costs an additional $5 and takes the same amount of time. Ask the ADOT staff member whether this is worth doing based on your situation.

Replacing a license that is damaged or unreadable

If your license is still valid but damaged, faded, or unreadable, you can replace it the same way as an expired license. Bring the damaged card with you or describe the damage when you mail your request. ADOT will issue a new card with the same number and expiration date, so you do not lose any time on your license validity.

Damaged licenses are common after years in a wallet or exposure to heat and moisture. ADOT does not charge extra for a replacement due to damage — you pay the standard $25 or $45 fee.

Mailing in your replacement request

To replace your license by mail, you must meet three conditions: your license expired fewer than five years ago, you have no changes to report (no address change, name change, or new medical conditions), and you are not replacing a lost or stolen license.

Send the following to the ADOT address listed on their website: your current or expired license, a completed process form (available on the ADOT website), proof of residency, and a check or money order for the replacement fee. Include a return envelope with your address and postage. ADOT will mail your new license back to you in four to six weeks.

Mail replacement is slower but useful if you cannot take time off work or live far from an ADOT office. However, you will not receive a temporary license, so if you need to drive before your new card arrives, you will need another form of ID.

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

If you replace your license in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready. This is valid for driving and is recognized by police. Keep it with you until your permanent card arrives.

If you mailed your request and need to drive before your new license arrives, you have two options. First, you can go to an ADOT office in person and request an expedited replacement — this costs extra (typically $10 to $15 on top of the standard fee) and takes one to two weeks instead of four to six. Second, you can use another form of ID to drive, such as a passport or tribal ID, though this is less convenient than a driver's license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online?

No, Arizona does not offer online license replacement. You must go in person or mail your request. You can make an appointment online through the ADOT website, which reserves a time slot and reduces your wait, but you still have to visit an office to complete the replacement.

What if my address changed since my license was issued?

If your address changed, you cannot use the mail-in option — you must go in person. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). ADOT will update your address and issue a new card with the same number and expiration date.

How long is a temporary paper license valid?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent card should arrive within two to three weeks, so the temporary usually covers you. If your permanent card is delayed, contact ADOT to request an extension or a replacement temporary license.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No, you must pick up your temporary license in person at the ADOT office. However, your permanent card is mailed to your address, so anyone at your home can receive it. If you are concerned about the mail, you can request that ADOT hold your card for pickup instead.

What if my license has a medical restriction I no longer need?

If your license has a medical restriction (such as corrective lenses required) that no longer applies, you must go in person to remove it. Bring documentation from your doctor or eye care provider showing the restriction no longer applies. ADOT will issue a new card without the restriction.