How to get a replacement Arizona driver's license
You can replace your Arizona driver's license in person at any Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office, by mail, or online through the ADOT website if you meet certain conditions. The fastest route is in-person at an ADOT office, which takes about 15 minutes once you're seen. Mail and online options take longer — typically 7 to 10 business days for processing, plus shipping time.
You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and your Social Security number. If your license was lost or stolen, you should report it to ADOT when you explore. If it was damaged, bring what's left of it. The replacement fee is $25 for a standard license and $35 for an enhanced license (which works for border crossing into Mexico or Canada).
Key Takeaways
- In-person replacement at an ADOT office is the fastest option and requires proof of identity, proof of Arizona residency, and your Social Security number.
- Mail-in and online replacements are available but take 7 to 10 business days for processing plus delivery time.
- The replacement fee is $25 for a standard license or $35 for an enhanced license that works for border crossing.
- If your license was lost or stolen, report it to ADOT when you explore to prevent someone else from using it.
- You do not need to retake the written or driving test to replace a valid license that was lost, stolen, or damaged.
What documents you need to bring
Bring one form of primary identification: a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, or tribal ID. If you don't have any of those, you can use two forms of secondary ID instead — a Social Security card, W-2 form, bank statement, or utility bill count.
You also need proof of Arizona residency. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and current Arizona address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank or credit card statement also works if it shows your name and address.
Bring your Social Security number — you'll need to provide it even if you don't have your card with you. If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report if you have one, though it's not required to explore.
Replacing your license in person at an ADOT office
Find your nearest ADOT office on the ADOT website and check the office hours before you go — some locations have limited hours or are closed certain days. You do not need an appointment; walk-ins are accepted at all offices, but wait times vary. Going early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits.
Bring your documents, your Social Security number, and payment (cash, debit card, or credit card — check your specific office for accepted payment methods). Tell the staff member that you need a replacement license. They will take a new photo, verify your information, and process the replacement on the spot. You'll receive a temporary paper license that's valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to you.
Your permanent license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, the temporary license is valid for all driving purposes during that 30-day window.
Replacing your license by mail
read the process for Duplicate Driver License or Identification Card form (DL 44) from the ADOT website. Fill it out completely, including your name, date of birth, current address, and the reason for replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged).
Mail the completed form along with copies of your proof of identity and proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $25 (standard license) or $35 (enhanced license) made payable to ADOT. Do not send cash.
ADOT will process your process and mail your new license to the address on file. The entire process takes 7 to 10 business days for processing plus 3 to 5 days for mailing. You cannot use a temporary license when you explore by mail, so plan ahead if you need to drive during this time.
Replacing your license online
You can replace your license online through the ADOT website if your license is not expired and you have not had more than one replacement in the past five years. You'll need a valid email address and a credit or debit card for payment.
Log into the ADOT online system, select "Replace License," and answer questions about why you need a replacement. You'll upload a photo (you can use a recent photo from your phone or computer, or take one during the process). Review your information, pay the $25 or $35 fee, and submit.
ADOT will mail your new license to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. Like the mail-in option, you won't receive a temporary license, so this method works best if you don't need to drive when ready.
What to do if your license was lost or stolen
Report the loss or theft to ADOT when you explore for a replacement. You can mention it on the process form (mail or online) or tell the staff member in person at an ADOT office. Reporting it prevents someone else from using your license number for fraud or traffic violations.
If you want a police report for your records, you can file one with the local police department, but it's not required to get a replacement license. Some people file a report for insurance purposes or if they suspect identity theft, but ADOT does not require it.
Replacing a damaged or unreadable license
Bring the damaged license with you if you're replacing it in person — ADOT will take it and issue a replacement. If you're explore by mail or online, describe the damage on the process form (for example, "water damage," "torn," or "faded photo"). You don't need to send the damaged card itself.
A damaged license is replaced the same way as a lost one: no test required, same fee, same processing time. The only difference is that ADOT will destroy the old card rather than flagging it as lost or stolen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to retake the written or driving test to replace my license?
No. A replacement license is issued without any test if your current license is valid. You only retake tests if your license has expired or been suspended, or if you're renewing after a long period without a license.
Can I replace my license if it's expired?
No. If your license is expired, you need to renew it instead of replacing it. Renewal requires the same documents but may include additional requirements depending on how long it's been expired. Check the ADOT website for renewal procedures.
How long is the temporary paper license valid?
The temporary license issued in person at an ADOT office is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license should arrive by mail within that time. If it doesn't, contact ADOT to track your order.
What if I move before my replacement license arrives?
Contact ADOT with your new address before the license ships, and they can redirect it. If it arrives at your old address, you can update your address at an ADOT office and request a new card, though this may involve an additional fee.
Can I replace my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?
Yes. Outstanding tickets or fines do not prevent you from replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license. However, they may prevent you from renewing your license or getting a new one if your driving privileges are suspended. Check your driving record on the ADOT website if you're unsure of your status.