Arizona driver's license renewal by mail, online, or in person
Arizona lets you renew your driver's license through three routes: online at ServiceArizona.com, by mail using the renewal notice the state sends you, or in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office. Which one you can use depends on your license type, how much time is left before it expires, and whether your address or name has changed. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting an office.
Your renewal notice arrives in the mail about 45 days before your license expires. It contains a barcode and instructions for each method. If you do not receive one, you can still renew online or request a paper form by calling the Motor Vehicle Division at 602-255-0072.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through ServiceArizona.com is the fastest option and works for most standard driver's licenses that have not been suspended or revoked.
- Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and requires only your renewal notice, a check or money order, and a return envelope.
- In-person renewal at a Motor Vehicle Division office is necessary if your license was suspended, revoked, or if you need to update your address or name.
- Arizona driver's licenses are valid for five years, and you can renew up to six months before expiration.
- The renewal fee is $25 for a standard five-year license, payable by check, money order, or credit card depending on your method.
Online renewal through ServiceArizona.com
Online renewal is the fastest method and takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Go to ServiceArizona.com, select "Driver License Services," then "Renew Driver License." You will need your current Arizona driver's license number, the barcode from your renewal notice, and a valid payment method (credit or debit card). The $25 renewal fee is charged when ready.
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your old license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is not available if your license has been suspended, revoked, or if you have an outstanding traffic violation hold. You also cannot change your address or name online — those changes require an in-person visit.
Mail renewal with your renewal notice
Mail renewal is straightforward and requires no appointment. Complete the renewal notice the state sent you, sign it, and mail it with a check or money order for $25 to the address printed on the form. Include a copy of your current Arizona driver's license or a government-issued ID if the state requests it. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the Motor Vehicle Division receives your envelope.
Mail renewal works for most standard licenses and is a good option if you prefer not to go online or visit an office. However, you cannot change your address or name by mail. If either has changed, you must renew in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office with proof of the change (such as a marriage certificate, court order, or utility bill).
In-person renewal at a Motor Vehicle Division office
Visit a Motor Vehicle Division office if your license was suspended or revoked, if you need to change your address or name, or if you prefer to renew face-to-face. Bring your current Arizona driver's license, proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and the $25 renewal fee in cash, check, or card. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change.
You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the Motor Vehicle Division website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times. Your new license is issued on the spot, though you may receive a temporary paper license while your permanent card is printed and mailed.
What happens if your license has expired
If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license in person. This requires a visit to a Motor Vehicle Division office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The process is longer than renewal and costs more.
If your license expired within the last five years, you can still renew using any of the three methods above. Arizona does not charge a penalty for renewing a license that has been expired for a short time, but you should not drive with an expired license. Renew as soon as you notice it has expired.
Address and name changes during renewal
If your address has changed, you must renew in person or update your address separately before renewing by mail or online. To change your address without renewing, visit ServiceArizona.com or go to a Motor Vehicle Division office with proof of your new address. You can then renew by mail or online using your updated information.
Name changes also require an in-person visit. Bring your current license, proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of your current address. The Motor Vehicle Division will issue a new license with your updated name at that visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Arizona license if I live out of state?
Yes. You can renew by mail or online as long as your license has not been suspended or revoked. Mail renewal is often the easiest option for out-of-state residents. If you need to change your address to an out-of-state address, you can do that online through ServiceArizona.com during renewal.
What if I lost my renewal notice?
You can still renew online at ServiceArizona.com without the notice — you only need your driver's license number and a payment method. If you prefer to renew by mail, call the Motor Vehicle Division at 602-255-0072 to request a replacement renewal form.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Online and mail renewals take 7 to 10 business days for your new license to arrive by mail. In-person renewal is faster — you receive a temporary license on the spot and your permanent license arrives within one to two weeks.
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. Arizona allows you to renew up to six months before your license expires. This is useful if you are traveling or want to avoid renewing close to the expiration date.
What if my license was suspended or revoked?
You cannot renew online or by mail if your license is under suspension or revocation. You must visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person. The office staff can tell you what steps are needed to restore your driving privileges before you can renew.