How to Renew Your Arizona Driver's License

Arizona driver's licenses expire every 12 years, and you can renew yours online, by mail, or in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office

Your Arizona driver's license is valid for 12 years from the date it was issued. When it expires, you have three ways to renew: through the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) website, by mail using a renewal form, or by visiting a Motor Vehicle Division office in person. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need to update your photo, and how quickly you need the new card.

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online—you must go to an office or mail in your process. If your license is still valid and you have not had any changes to your name, address, or medical conditions, online renewal is the fastest option and takes about 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

Arizona licenses last 12 years, and you can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation and whether your current license is still valid.
Online renewal through the ADOT website costs less than in-person renewal and takes about 10 business days if your license has not yet expired.
If your license has expired, you cannot use online renewal and must visit a Motor Vehicle Division office or mail in a paper process.
You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
If you need a new photo or have changed your name or address, you may need to renew in person rather than online.

Renewing online through the ADOT website

Online renewal is the least expensive option and works only if your current Arizona license is still valid (not expired). Go to the ADOT website, select "Renew Your Driver License," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and show you the renewal fee, which is lower than the in-person fee.

You will pay by credit or debit card and receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within about 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to change your address, name, or medical information before the renewal is processed, you cannot do this online—you must visit an office or mail in a paper form instead.

Renewing by mail with a paper process

Mail renewal works whether your license is still valid or has expired. read the Driver License Renewal process (Form DL 44) from the ADOT website or pick one up at any Motor Vehicle Division office. Fill it out completely, including your current license number, signature, and any changes to your address or name.

Mail the form along with your current license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about four to six weeks from the date ADOT receives your process. If you are renewing an expired license, mail renewal is often slower than going to an office in person, so consider your timeline before choosing this route.

Renewing in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office

In-person renewal is required if your license has expired and you need to drive before a mailed renewal arrives. Bring your current license (or expired license), proof of Arizona residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. You will also need to pass a vision screening and may be asked to provide a new photo.

The fee for in-person renewal is higher than online renewal. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is being made. Your new license will be mailed within 10 business days. Motor Vehicle Division offices can have long wait times, especially near the end of the month, so plan accordingly or check the office's website for current wait times before you go.

What happens if your license has already expired

If your Arizona license has been expired for less than one year, you can still renew it using any of the three methods above. However, you cannot use online renewal—you must mail in a paper process or visit an office. If your license expired more than one year ago, ADOT treats it as a new license process rather than a renewal, which requires a written test, vision test, and new photo. You will need to schedule an appointment at a Motor Vehicle Division office.

If you have been driving on an expired license, you are breaking the law and can be cited. Renew as soon as possible, even if you have to take time off work to visit an office.

Changing your address, name, or medical information during renewal

If you are renewing online and need to change your address, name, or medical information (such as organ donor status or correcting a vision restriction), you cannot complete the change online. You must either mail in a paper process with the changes noted or visit an office in person. The office staff can update your information while you wait and issue a temporary license on the spot.

If you are changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document that proves the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). This document is required whether you renew online, by mail, or in person.

Fees and payment methods for Arizona license renewal

The renewal fee depends on the method you choose. Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal because ADOT does not have to process the process at an office. Mail renewal costs the same as online renewal. In-person renewal costs more because it includes the cost of the office visit and the temporary license. Fees are set by Arizona state law and do not vary between offices.

You can pay online with a credit or debit card. For mail renewal, you must send a check or money order—ADOT does not accept credit cards by mail. At an office, you can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. If you are unsure of the exact current fee, check the ADOT website or call your local Motor Vehicle Division office before you renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Arizona license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. This is useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new license will be valid for 12 years from the date you renew, not from the date your old license expires.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it?

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew it—you must report it to ADOT and explore for a replacement. This is treated as a new process and requires a visit to a Motor Vehicle Division office. Bring proof of identity and Arizona residency, and you will receive a temporary license on the spot.

How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?

Online and mail renewals typically arrive within 10 business days. Mail renewal of an process can take four to six weeks depending on mail delivery and processing time. If you renew in person, you get a temporary paper license when ready and the permanent card arrives within 10 business days.

Do I need a new photo when I renew my license?

Online renewal does not require a new photo—your current photo is used. If you renew in person, ADOT may take a new photo depending on the office and your request. If you want a new photo, ask the office staff when you arrive.

What if my address changed since I got my current license?

If you are renewing online, you cannot change your address through the online system. You must mail in a paper process or visit an office in person to update your address. Bring proof of your new Arizona residency, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.