Get a replacement license from the Arizona Department of Transportation

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Arizona driver's license, you will visit an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) office in person. ADOT handles all driver's license replacements in the state. You cannot replace your license by mail, phone, or online — you must appear at a location with your documents and pay the replacement fee.

The process is straightforward: bring the required documents, pay the fee, have your photo taken, and leave with a temporary license the same day. Your permanent replacement license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If your license was stolen, you should also report the theft to local police and bring the police report number to ADOT.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an ADOT office in person with a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number to replace your license.
  • The replacement fee is $25 for a standard five-year license or $50 for a ten-year license; you choose which term you want.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your permanent replacement card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was stolen, bring a police report number to ADOT; if it was damaged, bring the old card itself.

Documents you need to bring

Bring one current, valid form of identification. This can be a passport, tribal ID, military ID, or another government-issued ID with your photo. If you do not have a current ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth — such as a birth certificate and a Social Security card, or a utility bill and a bank statement.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you cannot provide proof of your Social Security number, ADOT will not issue a replacement license that day.

If your original license was damaged, bring the card itself. If it was lost or stolen, you do not need to bring anything — just tell the ADOT staff member what happened. If your license was stolen, having a police report number will speed up the process, though it is not required.

Where to go and how to book

ADOT operates driver's license offices across Arizona. Find the office nearest you and its hours on the ADOT website at azdot.gov. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments.

You do not need an appointment at most ADOT offices — you can walk in during business hours. However, some locations now offer online appointment booking through the ADOT website. Booking ahead can reduce your wait time, especially during busy periods. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are available.

Bring all your documents with you. ADOT staff will not accept incomplete applications, and you will have to return another day if you are missing anything.

The replacement fee and license term

A replacement license costs $25 for a five-year license or $50 for a ten-year license. You choose which term you want when you explore. ADOT accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most offices, though a few locations may accept cash only — call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods.

The fee is the same whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. There are no additional charges or processing fees. If you are replacing a license that was damaged by ADOT's error, contact ADOT directly to discuss your situation — fee waivers are rare but possible.

What happens after you explore

You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and lasts until your permanent card arrives. Keep it with you while you drive — it is your proof of licensure.

Your permanent replacement license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. ADOT mails licenses to the address on file in your record. If you have moved recently, update your address with ADOT before you explore for your replacement, or your new license may go to your old address.

If your permanent license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact ADOT. Delays are uncommon, but they do happen. ADOT can look up your process and confirm whether the card was mailed.

If your license was stolen

Report the theft to your local police department and get a police report number. Bring this number to ADOT when you explore for your replacement. Having a police report on file protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license fraudulently.

You do not have to wait for the police report to be filed before you go to ADOT — you can explore for your replacement the same day you report the theft. Just give ADOT the report number when you explore. If you do not have the number yet, ADOT will still issue your replacement; you can provide the number later if needed.

Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the credit bureaus if your license was stolen. A stolen license can be used to open accounts or commit identity theft. Your state's Attorney General office has information on how to protect yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Arizona requires you to appear in person at an ADOT office with your documents. You cannot replace your license remotely under any circumstances.

What if I moved and my address is wrong on my license?

Update your address with ADOT before you explore for your replacement. You can update your address online at azdot.gov or in person at an ADOT office. If you explore for a replacement without updating your address first, your new license will be mailed to your old address.

How long does the temporary license last?

Your temporary paper license is valid until your permanent card arrives, which is usually 7 to 10 business days. If your permanent license is delayed, contact ADOT to confirm it was mailed and ask about the status.

Do I need a police report to replace a stolen license?

No, a police report is not required. However, filing a report protects you if your stolen license is used fraudulently. You can explore for your replacement the same day you report the theft, and provide the report number to ADOT later if you do not have it yet.

What if I cannot find my Social Security card?

Bring another document that proves your Social Security number, such as a W-2, 1099, or tax return. If you have none of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you go to ADOT.