Where to get a replacement Arizona driver's license

You can get a replacement Arizona driver's license at any Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office. ADOT runs the Motor Vehicle Division, which handles all driver's license replacements. You have three ways to do it: in person at a local office, by mail, or through an authorized third-party provider.

The fastest route is usually in person. You walk in with your documents, pay the fee, and get your replacement the same day or within a few days. If you cannot get to an office, the mail option takes longer but works if your license was lost or stolen and you do not need to drive when ready. Third-party providers (like some MVD-authorized offices in certain locations) can also issue replacements, though availability varies by area.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace your Arizona driver's license in person at any ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office, by mail, or through an authorized third-party provider.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and your Social Security number or an ITIN, plus payment for the replacement fee.
  • In-person replacement usually takes a few days; mail replacement takes two to three weeks or longer depending on processing time.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, you should report it to ADOT when you request the replacement to prevent misuse.
  • The replacement fee varies depending on how many years remain on your current license and whether you are renewing early.

Documents you need to bring

ADOT requires specific documents to issue a replacement license. You must bring proof of identity (your current Arizona driver's license, passport, tribal ID, or military ID), proof of Arizona residency (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have your Social Security number memorized, bring a document that shows it.

If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report or a signed statement saying it was lost or stolen. This protects you if someone tries to use your old license number. ADOT will flag the old license as invalid once they process the replacement.

Replacement fees and what they cover

The replacement fee depends on how long your current license is valid. If your license expires within the next year, the replacement costs less because you are only getting a short-term license. If your license has more than a year left, you pay more because you are getting a full-term replacement. As of 2024, fees range but you should check the current ADOT fee schedule on their website because fees can change.

The replacement fee covers the new physical card and the processing. It does not include any additional services like a duplicate copy or rush processing. Some ADOT offices may offer rush service for an extra fee, but this varies by location.

In-person replacement at an ADOT office

To replace your license in person, find your nearest ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office using the office locator on the ADOT website. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use a reservation system. Check before you go. Bring all required documents and your payment method (cash, check, or card, depending on the office).

When you arrive, you will fill out an process form (Form DL 44 or the renewal form, depending on whether you are renewing or replacing). You will have your photo taken and your signature captured. The office will verify your documents and process your replacement on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you. The plastic card usually arrives within five to seven business days.

Mail replacement for lost or stolen licenses

If you cannot get to an office, you can request a replacement by mail. read the appropriate form from the ADOT website (usually the driver's license replacement form), fill it out completely, and mail it with copies of your proof of identity and residency and a check or money order for the fee. Include a signed statement if your license was lost or stolen.

Mail your packet to the ADOT Motor Vehicle Division address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date ADOT receives your packet, though it can take longer during busy periods. You will not receive a temporary license with the mail option, so you cannot legally drive until your replacement arrives. If you need to drive before it arrives, you will need to go in person to get a temporary license.

Third-party providers and authorized locations

Some Arizona cities and towns have authorized third-party providers that can issue driver's license replacements. These are not ADOT offices but are licensed to perform certain MVD services. They charge the same state fee plus a service fee set by the provider. The advantage is convenience if one is near you; the disadvantage is the extra fee.

Check the ADOT website for a list of authorized third-party providers in your area. Not all areas have them, and availability changes. Call ahead to confirm they handle replacements and what documents they need.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

Report the loss or theft to ADOT when you request your replacement. You can do this in person at any ADOT office or by mail. If you report it in person, tell the staff member that your license was lost or stolen, and they will flag it in the system. If you are replacing by mail, include a signed statement describing what happened and when you discovered it was missing.

Reporting it prevents someone else from using your license number for identification or to obtain services in your name. ADOT will invalidate the old license number once your replacement is processed. If you are concerned about identity theft, you may also want to contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety or place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus, but that is separate from the license replacement process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a temporary paper license while I wait for my plastic replacement?

Yes, if you received a temporary paper license at an ADOT office. It is valid for 30 days and counts as a legal driver's license. If you replaced by mail, you do not get a temporary license, so you cannot legally drive until the plastic card arrives.

How long does it take to get a replacement if I go in person?

You receive a temporary paper license the same day. Your plastic card is mailed to you and usually arrives within five to seven business days. Some offices may have longer wait times during peak periods, so arriving early in the day or on a weekday can be faster.

What if I lost my license and do not have a police report?

You do not need a police report. You can sign a statement at the ADOT office or include a signed statement in your mail packet saying your license was lost. ADOT will accept your word that it was lost or stolen and will flag the old license as invalid.

Do I have to pay the full replacement fee if my license expires soon?

No. The fee is prorated based on how much time is left on your current license. If your license expires in three months, you pay less than if it expires in three years. ADOT calculates this based on your current expiration date.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

If you replaced in person, your temporary paper license is valid to drive, so you do not need to pick anything up at the office. Your plastic card is mailed to the address on file. If you need someone else to receive it, update your mailing address before you explore, or contact ADOT to see if they can hold it for you.