Arizona driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it to last
An Arizona driver's license costs between $25 and $75, depending on whether you want a standard license or an enhanced one, and whether you're renewing an existing license or getting your first one. A standard five-year license costs $25 for a first-time applicant. If you want a ten-year license instead, you'll pay $50. An enhanced driver's license, which works as both a license and a travel document for land and sea border crossings, costs $75 for ten years.
These are the fees you pay to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division when you complete your process. Some counties charge an additional county fee on top of the state fee — usually between $5 and $10 — so your total cost may be slightly higher depending on where you explore.
Key Takeaways
- A standard five-year Arizona driver's license costs $25 for a new applicant; a ten-year license costs $50.
- An enhanced driver's license that serves as a travel document costs $75 for ten years.
- Some counties add a small county fee on top of the state fee, so ask what the total will be when you explore.
- You pay the fee when you submit your process at an ADOT office or authorized third-party location.
Standard five-year versus ten-year licenses
Most first-time applicants choose the five-year license because it costs less upfront. You pay $25 and your license is valid for five years from the date it's issued. When it expires, you'll need to renew it and pay the fee again.
If you want your license to last longer, the ten-year option costs $50. This is often a better value if you plan to keep the same address and don't expect major changes to your information. You won't have to renew as often, which means fewer trips to an ADOT office and fewer renewal fees over time.
What an enhanced driver's license costs and who needs one
An enhanced driver's license costs $75 and is valid for ten years. It serves two purposes: it's a valid Arizona driver's license, and it's also accepted as proof of citizenship and identity for travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea. You cannot use it for air travel — you still need a passport for that.
You only need an enhanced license if you regularly cross the U.S. border by car or boat and want to avoid carrying a passport. If you never cross the border or you're willing to bring your passport when you do, a standard license is sufficient and costs less.
Where to pay and what documents you need to bring
You pay the license fee when you submit your process at an ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office or at an authorized third-party location like certain insurance agencies or vehicle dealerships. You cannot pay the fee online or by mail — you must explore in person.
Bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or consular ID), proof of Arizona residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. ADOT will tell you the exact total cost when you arrive, including any county fee. Most locations accept cash, debit, and credit cards.
County fees that vary by location
Arizona counties are allowed to charge their own fee on top of the state fee. Most counties charge between $5 and $10, though some charge nothing. Maricopa County, which includes Phoenix, charges $10. Pima County, which includes Tucson, charges $5. Smaller counties may charge less or nothing at all.
You won't know the exact county fee until you visit the office or call ahead. If cost is a concern, it's worth calling your local ADOT office before you go to confirm the total you'll pay.
Renewal fees and how often you pay
When your license expires, you'll pay the same fee again to renew it. A five-year license renewal costs $25. A ten-year license renewal costs $50. An enhanced license renewal costs $75. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires, so you don't have to wait until the last minute.
If you renew online (available for some drivers), you may pay a small additional processing fee, usually around $1 to $2. Not all drivers are may be able to access for online renewal — ADOT will tell you whether you may have access to when your renewal notice arrives in the mail.
Replacement licenses and duplicate fees
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement. A replacement standard license costs $12. A replacement enhanced license costs $25. You'll need to explore in person at an ADOT office and bring proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a new license.
If you want a duplicate copy of your current license (for example, to keep in a safe place), that costs $5 and you can request it at any ADOT office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay the license fee online?
No. You must explore in person at an ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office or an authorized third-party location. You cannot complete the process or pay the fee online or by mail.
What if I'm under 18 — do I pay a different fee?
No. The fee is the same for all ages. A first-time five-year license costs $25 whether you're 16 or 50. However, you'll need a parent or guardian to sign your process if you're under 18.
Do I have to choose the ten-year license, or can I stick with five years?
You can choose either one. Five-year licenses cost less upfront, but you'll renew more often. Ten-year licenses cost more upfront but you won't need to renew as soon. Pick whichever fits your situation better.
Is there a fee if I change my address on my license?
No. You can update your address for free at any ADOT office or online through the ADOT website. You don't pay a fee unless you're renewing or replacing your license.
What happens if my license expires — do I have to pay a penalty fee?
No penalty fee. You straightforward pay the regular renewal fee ($25 for five years, $50 for ten years) when you renew. However, you cannot legally drive with an expired license, so renew before the expiration date on the front.