What to do if you've lost your Arizona driver's license

If you've lost your Arizona driver's license, you can replace it through the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). You'll need to visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 15 minutes at the office, though your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

You do not need to retake the written or road test — a replacement is straightforward a new card with the same information and driving privileges as your original. The main difference is the new license will have a different number.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person; replacements cannot be done by mail or online.
  • Bring a valid form of identification (passport, tribal ID, or military ID) and proof of Arizona residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
  • The replacement fee is $12 for a standard license, or $27 if you want a Real ID-compliant license.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your address on file and should arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the office.

Documents you need to bring to the Motor Vehicle Division

Bring one form of valid photo identification. This can be a U.S. passport, passport card, tribal ID card, military ID, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. A Social Security card or birth certificate alone will not work — you need a photo ID.

You also need proof that you live in Arizona. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill in your name is the easiest option.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You will need it to complete the replacement form.

Motor Vehicle Division office locations and hours

Arizona has Motor Vehicle Division offices in most cities. The main office is in Phoenix at 1801 W. Jefferson Street, but there are branches throughout the state in Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, Scottsdale, Tempe, and other locations. You can visit any office — you do not have to go to the one closest to your home.

Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Hours vary by location, so check the ADOT website or call ahead before you go. Wait times are typically shortest early in the morning or mid-week.

You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now allow you to reserve a time slot online through the ADOT website. Reserving a slot can reduce your wait time significantly.

The replacement fee and payment methods

A standard Arizona driver's license replacement costs $12. If you want to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant license at the same time, the fee is $27. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings.

You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at the office. Some locations may accept checks, but cash or card is safest. The fee is non-refundable.

Getting a temporary license while you wait for your replacement

If you need to drive before your new license arrives, ask the Motor Vehicle Division staff for a temporary paper license before you leave the office. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive legally while your permanent replacement is in the mail.

The temporary license is printed on the spot and given to you when ready. Keep it with you whenever you drive. Once your permanent license arrives, the temporary one is no longer valid.

What happens if your license was stolen, not just lost

If your license was stolen rather than lost, the replacement process is the same — you still visit a Motor Vehicle Division office with the same documents and pay the same fee. There is no separate report you need to file with ADOT.

However, if you believe your identity information was compromised along with the license, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) or freezing your credit. This is a separate step from replacing your license but can protect you from identity theft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail or online?

No. Arizona requires you to appear in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office to replace a lost license. You cannot do it by mail or through the ADOT website.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

You must bring proof of Arizona residency dated within 60 days. If you have just moved to Arizona or do not have a utility bill in your name, bring a lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement instead. If you cannot produce any of these, contact ADOT before visiting to ask what alternative documents they will accept.

How long does it take to get my new license?

The office visit takes about 15 minutes. Your new physical license is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If it takes longer, contact ADOT with your case number (given at the office) to check the status.

Will my new license have the same number as my old one?

No. Your replacement license will have a new number. Your driving record and privileges remain the same, but the card itself is a new document with a different number printed on it.

Do I have to pay to replace a stolen license?

Yes. The replacement fee is the same whether your license was lost or stolen — $12 for a standard license or $27 for Real ID. ADOT does not waive the fee for theft.