The fastest way to renew in Arizona
You can renew your Arizona driver's license online through the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) website if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be suspended or revoked, you must have a valid email address, and your license must not have expired more than five years ago. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes, costs $25, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If you do not meet the online requirements — for example, if your license expired more than five years ago or you have a suspension on your record — you must renew in person at an ADOT office. In-person renewal takes longer but handles more complex situations.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through ADOT's website works if your license expired within the last five years and is not suspended or revoked, and costs $25.
- In-person renewal at an ADOT office is required if your license expired more than five years ago, has a suspension, or if you need to change your address or name.
- You will need your current Arizona driver's license number, a valid email address, and a payment method (debit or credit card) to renew online.
- Your renewed license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days for online renewal; in-person renewal gives you a temporary license when ready and a permanent one by mail within two weeks.
- ADOT offices are open Monday through Friday, and wait times vary by location; you can check current wait times on the ADOT website before you go.
Steps to renew online through ADOT
Go to the ADOT website and select "Renew Your License Online." You will need your current Arizona driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter these details and verify your email address — ADOT will send a confirmation link to that email.
Review your personal information on the screen and update your address or name if needed. Answer the vision and medical history questions honestly; if you answer "yes" to any medical question, ADOT may require you to visit an office in person or provide a medical form from your doctor. Select your new photo option: you can keep your current photo or upload a new one taken within the last six months.
Choose your license type (standard, enhanced, or commercial if you hold one) and confirm your mailing address. Pay the $25 renewal fee with a debit or credit card. You will receive a confirmation number by email; save this for your records. Your new license will arrive at the address you provided within 7 to 10 business days.
When you must renew in person at an ADOT office
Visit an ADOT office if your license expired more than five years ago, if you have a suspension or revocation on your record, if you need to change your name or address and cannot do so online, or if you did not pass the online medical or vision screening. You can also renew in person if you prefer not to renew online.
ADOT has offices in Phoenix, Mesa, Tucson, Flagstaff, Yuma, Prescott, and other cities. Check the ADOT website for the office nearest you, its hours, and current wait times. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Arrive early or use the online wait-time tool to pick a less busy time.
What to bring to an ADOT office
Bring your current Arizona driver's license or a valid form of identification if your license is expired. You will also need proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and proof of your legal name if you have changed it since your last license (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
If you are renewing because of a medical or vision issue, bring any required medical forms completed by your doctor. Bring a payment method: ADOT accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. The renewal fee is $25 for a standard five-year license or $50 for an enhanced license that works as a Real ID.
Real ID and enhanced licenses in Arizona
Arizona offers two types of renewed licenses: a standard driver's license and an enhanced license that meets Real ID requirements. A standard license costs $25 and is valid for five years. An enhanced license costs $50, is valid for five years, and can be used to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport.
If you renew online, you can choose either type at checkout. If you renew in person, tell the ADOT staff which type you want. To get an enhanced license, you must provide proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) and proof of your Social Security number. If you already have an enhanced license, you can renew it online or in person.
Temporary license and what happens after renewal
If you renew in person at an ADOT office, you will receive a temporary paper license when ready. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while your permanent license is being mailed. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two weeks.
If you renew online, you do not receive a temporary license. Your current license remains valid until your new one arrives, which takes 7 to 10 business days. If your current license has already expired, you should not drive until your new license arrives. If you need to drive before it arrives, visit an ADOT office to get a temporary license.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
If your Arizona driver's license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online. You must visit an ADOT office in person. The reason for the suspension or revocation determines what you must do next: some suspensions require you to pay a reinstatement fee, others require proof that you have completed a required course or paid a fine, and some require a medical evaluation.
Before you go to an ADOT office, contact ADOT by phone at 602-255-0072 to find out why your license is suspended and what documents you need to bring. This saves you a trip if you are missing required paperwork. ADOT staff at the office can tell you the next steps and what fees explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Arizona license if I live out of state?
Yes, you can renew online from anywhere if you meet the online requirements. Your new license will be mailed to the Arizona address you provide. If you need to renew in person, you must visit an ADOT office in Arizona.
What if my license was lost or stolen?
You cannot renew a lost or stolen license online. Visit an ADOT office to report it and get a replacement. Bring your proof of identity, Social Security number, and current address. The replacement fee is $25 for a standard license.
How long is my Arizona license valid after renewal?
A standard Arizona driver's license is valid for five years from the date of renewal. An enhanced license is also valid for five years. ADOT will mail you a renewal notice about 90 days before your license expires.
Can I change my name or address when I renew?
Yes. If you renew online, you can update your address during the process. To change your name, you must renew in person and bring proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). ADOT will update your record and issue a new license with your correct name.
What if I do not receive my renewed license in the mail?
Contact ADOT at 602-255-0072 with your confirmation number. ADOT can check the status of your license and resend it if needed. If your license was lost in the mail, ADOT may issue a replacement.