Arizona driver's licenses are valid for 12 years if you're under 65, and 5 years if you're 65 or older

Your Arizona driver's license expiration date is printed on the front of the card. Most adults renew every 12 years, but the state shortens the renewal cycle to 5 years once you turn 65. The expiration date tells you exactly when you need to renew — you cannot legally drive after that date, even if you're only one day past it.

Arizona does not send renewal reminders by mail or email, so marking your calendar or setting a phone alert is your responsibility. You can check your license expiration date anytime by logging into your Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) account online, or straightforward by looking at the card itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Arizona driver's licenses expire after 12 years for people under 65 and after 5 years for people 65 and older.
  • Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license card and is the only official notice you'll receive.
  • You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at an ADOT office, depending on your situation.
  • An expired license cannot be used for driving, but an expired ID can still be used for non-driving purposes like boarding a plane or entering a federal building.

Renewal timelines and when to start the process

You can renew your Arizona license up to 6 months before it expires. Starting your renewal early gives you time to handle any problems — missing documents, address changes, or name corrections — without rushing. If you wait until the last month, you risk delays that could leave you without a valid license.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it. Arizona does not impose a penalty for renewing late, but you cannot legally drive until the new license arrives. An expired license also cannot be used for age verification at bars, banks, or other businesses, even though it's still your identity document.

Renewing online through ADOT's system

The fastest renewal method is online through the ADOT website if you meet certain conditions. You can renew online if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have no medical restrictions, your address hasn't changed, and you're renewing a standard (not commercial) license. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person.

After you complete the online renewal, ADOT mails your new license to the address on file. Delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive a temporary paper license number by email that you can use for driving while you wait for the physical card to arrive.

Renewing by mail or in person at an ADOT office

If you cannot renew online — because your address changed, you have medical restrictions, or your license is suspended — you must renew by mail or in person. By mail, you fill out the renewal form (DL 44), include a copy of your current license and proof of your new address if applicable, and mail it to the address on the form. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks.

In-person renewal at an ADOT office is the fastest option if you need to resolve issues or provide documents. You'll need your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number. Walk-in appointments are available, but wait times vary by location and time of day. You can check wait times on the ADOT website before you go.

What happens if your license expires while you're out of state

If you're living or traveling outside Arizona when your license expires, you can still renew online or by mail. You cannot renew in person at an ADOT office unless you're physically in Arizona. If you're stationed overseas with the military, ADOT offers extended renewal periods — contact your local ADOT office or the military liaison to confirm your options.

An expired Arizona license is not valid for driving anywhere, including other states. If you're pulled over with an expired license, you can be cited for driving with an invalid license, even if you were in the process of renewing.

Renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL)

Commercial driver's licenses follow different rules. Arizona CDLs expire every 5 years regardless of your age, and you must renew in person at an ADOT office — online and mail renewal are not available. You'll need to pass a written test and a skills test (driving test) to renew, unless you may have access to for a waiver based on your driving record and employment history.

CDL renewal also requires a medical certificate from a certified medical examiner. You must obtain this certificate before or at the same time as your renewal appointment. The medical exam is not performed by ADOT; you arrange it separately and bring the results with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an expired Arizona license?

No. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Arizona, even if you've submitted a renewal process. You can be cited and fined. If you're waiting for your renewed license to arrive by mail, use the temporary paper license number ADOT sends you by email.

What's the difference between an expired license and a suspended license?

An expired license straightforward means the validity period has ended. A suspended license means the state has temporarily taken away your driving privilege, usually due to unpaid tickets, DUI, or insurance lapses. You cannot renew a suspended license until the suspension is lifted.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?

If you renew online or by mail, your current photo stays on your license. If you renew in person, ADOT takes a new photo. You can request a new photo during an in-person renewal even if you're not required to provide one.

What if my name changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. Online and mail renewal cannot process name changes.

Can I renew my license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a valid visa or work permit. You'll need to provide proof of legal presence in the United States. Bring your passport and current visa or work authorization document to your renewal appointment.