Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your Arizona driver's license in person at any Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office, or online through the ADOT website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired by more than five years, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.

For an in-person renewal, bring your current Arizona driver's license, proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You do not need to bring your birth certificate or passport unless you're renewing for the first time or your license was lost or stolen.

For an online renewal, you'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The online system will walk you through the steps. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal takes about five to ten minutes and works only if your license expired less than five years ago and has no medical restrictions.
  • In-person renewal at an ADOT office requires your current license, proof of address, and your Social Security number, and usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
  • You can renew up to six months before your license expires, so you don't have to wait until the expiration date.
  • A renewed standard license is valid for five years; a commercial license is valid for five years but requires a medical certificate.

How long renewal takes and when your new license arrives

If you renew online, your new license is mailed within 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days while your plastic card is being produced. The plastic card typically arrives within 2 to 3 weeks.

You can renew starting six months before your license expires. Many people renew early to avoid the rush near the expiration date, especially if they have a trip planned or need the license for a job process.

ADOT office locations and how to find your nearest one

ADOT has offices in most Arizona cities and towns. You can find the full list and hours on the ADOT website under "Office Locations." Some offices are busier than others; offices in Phoenix, Tucson, and Mesa often have longer wait times, especially on Fridays and near month-end. Smaller towns and rural areas typically have shorter waits.

You do not need an appointment at most ADOT offices — you walk in and take a number. However, some offices now offer online appointment scheduling through the ADOT website. Scheduling ahead can save you an hour or more of waiting, especially if you're renewing during a busy time.

Renewing a commercial driver's license

A commercial driver's license (CDL) renewal requires an in-person visit and a current medical certificate. You cannot renew a CDL online. Bring your current CDL, proof of address, your Social Security number, and your medical certificate (Form MCSA-5876, signed by a certified medical examiner within the past 60 days).

If your medical certificate has expired or you don't have one, you'll need to visit a certified medical examiner before you go to ADOT. The examiner will perform a physical and issue the certificate on the spot if you pass. ADOT can provide a list of certified examiners in your area.

What happens if your license is expired

If your license has been expired for five years or less, you can still renew it using the same process — either online or in person. If it has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test and vision test, depending on how long it has been expired. ADOT will tell you what's required when you arrive.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Arizona, even if you've already started the renewal process. If you're pulled over, you can show the officer your temporary paper license (if you renewed in person) or proof that you renewed online, but this does not may provide you won't be cited. Renew before your license expires to avoid this risk.

Changing your address or name during renewal

If your address has changed, you can update it during renewal — either online or in person. If you're renewing online, the system will ask for your new address. If you're renewing in person, tell the ADOT staff member and they will update it on your new license.

If your name has changed, you must renew in person. Bring your current license and a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). ADOT will not process a name change online.

Fees and payment methods

A standard driver's license renewal costs $25 for a five-year license. A commercial driver's license renewal costs $75 for a five-year license. These fees are set by the state and do not vary by location or renewal method.

At ADOT offices, you can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card. Online, you can pay with a debit card or credit card. ADOT does not accept checks or money orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?

Arizona does not automatically block license renewal for unpaid traffic fines, but some courts may place a hold on your license if a fine is seriously overdue. Contact the court that issued the ticket to learn about there's a hold. If there is, you'll need to resolve it before ADOT will process your renewal.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it at the same time?

You'll need to replace it first. Visit an ADOT office with proof of identity and proof of address, pay the replacement fee (around $10), and receive a temporary license. You can renew during the same visit or wait until closer to your expiration date.

Do I need a new photo for my renewal?

If you're renewing online, your photo from your current license is used. If you're renewing in person, ADOT will take a new photo. You cannot bring your own photo or use an old one.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew in person or online yourself. ADOT does not accept renewals by mail or through a third party, even with a power of attorney.

What if my address on file is wrong but I don't want to change it yet?

You can renew without updating your address, but your new license will show the old address. If you move later, you'll need to visit an ADOT office to update it. It's usually easier to update during renewal.