What You Need to Do to Update Your Arizona License
You can update your Arizona driver's license in person at any Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office, or by mail for certain changes. The method depends on what you're updating — a name change, address change, or correcting information — and whether you need a new photo or can keep your current one. Most updates take a few minutes in person, though mail renewals can take two to three weeks.
Arizona does not charge a fee for address changes or corrections to existing information on your license. If you need a new photo or a replacement card due to damage, you'll pay the standard license fee, which varies based on your license type and how long you want it to be valid.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can be done online through the ADOT website, by mail, or in person at an ADOT office.
- Name changes require an in-person visit and proof of the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- You can update your license information without getting a new photo unless you choose to renew your license early.
- ADOT offices are open Monday through Friday, and you do not need an appointment for most updates.
- If your license is damaged, lost, or stolen, you can request a replacement in person or by mail.
Updating Your Address Online or by Mail
An address change is the simplest update. You can do it online through the ADOT website without visiting an office. Go to the ADOT homepage, find the address change option, and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and new address. The change takes effect when ready, and you'll receive a new license card in the mail within one to two weeks.
If you prefer to update by mail, print the address change form from the ADOT website, fill it out, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with your current license. You can also walk into any ADOT office and ask a staff member to update your address on the spot — this is the fastest method if you're already in the area.
Changing Your Name on Your License
A name change requires an in-person visit to an ADOT office. Bring your current Arizona driver's license and proof of your legal name change. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order for name change, or adoption papers. ADOT staff will not accept a name change without this documentation.
When you arrive, tell the staff member you need to update your name. They will take your old license, issue a new one with your updated name, and you can usually leave with it the same day. You will pay the standard license fee for the replacement card.
Correcting Errors on Your License
If your license has an error — a misspelled name, wrong date of birth, or incorrect address that you didn't authorize — you can correct it in person or by mail. Bring your current license and any documents that prove the correct information, such as your birth certificate for a date of birth error or a utility bill for an address error.
At an ADOT office, show the staff member the error and your supporting document. They will issue a corrected license on the spot. By mail, send a letter explaining the error, a copy of your license, and a copy of your proof document to the ADOT address on their website. Processing takes one to two weeks.
Getting a Replacement License
If your license is damaged, lost, or stolen, you can request a replacement card. In person, visit any ADOT office with your identification and tell staff you need a replacement. They will issue a new card with the same information as your old one, and you'll pay the replacement fee. You leave with your new license the same day.
By mail, print the replacement form from the ADOT website, include a copy of your identification if possible, and mail it with the fee to the address on the form. If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police first and include a copy of the police report with your replacement request. Mail processing takes two to three weeks.
Renewing Your License Early
You can renew your Arizona license before it expires. Early renewal is useful if you want a new photo, if you're planning to travel and want a fresh card, or if you're moving out of state soon. Early renewal costs the same as a standard renewal and extends your expiration date from the date you renew, not from your old expiration date.
Renew in person at any ADOT office or by mail using the renewal form on the ADOT website. In person, you'll get your new license the same day. By mail, the process takes two to three weeks. You will need to pass a vision test in person; if you renew by mail, you must have had a vision test within the past year at an ADOT office or with an eye care provider.
Finding an ADOT Office and What to Bring
ADOT has offices in most Arizona cities and towns. Find the location nearest you on the ADOT website, which also lists hours — most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. You do not need an appointment for address changes, name changes, or replacements; walk-ins are welcome, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
Bring your current Arizona driver's license to any in-person visit. For a name change, also bring your proof document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers). For a correction, bring proof of the correct information. For a replacement, bring any identification you have. If you're renewing early and want a new photo, bring your current license and be prepared to pay the renewal fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my address without going to an ADOT office?
Yes. You can update your address online through the ADOT website or by mail. Online updates take effect when ready, and you'll receive your new card in one to two weeks. Mail updates take longer but require no office visit.
How long does it take to get a new license card by mail?
Mail processing typically takes one to three weeks, depending on the type of update and current ADOT workload. Address changes and corrections usually arrive within one to two weeks. Replacements and renewals may take up to three weeks.
Do I have to get a new photo when I update my license?
No. Address changes, name changes, and corrections do not require a new photo unless you choose to renew your license early. If you want a new photo, you can request an early renewal and pay the renewal fee.
What if I changed my name but don't have my marriage certificate?
ADOT requires proof of your legal name change. If you don't have your original marriage certificate, contact the county clerk's office where you were married to request a certified copy. A certified copy is acceptable proof.
Can I update my license if it's expired?
Yes. You can update an expired license the same way you would update a current one. If your license is more than five years expired, you may need to retake the written test and vision test, so contact your local ADOT office first to confirm what's required.