Arizona License Renewal at a Glance
How to Renew Your Driver's License in Arizona
You renew your license through the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). Arizona licenses don't expire till age 65. After that, renew every 5 years. For a general overview of renewal rules across all states, see our driver's license renewal guide. Here are your options and steps.
Ways to Renew
- Online — the fastest way to renew. Visit the MVD renewal portal.
- In person — go to a MVD office. First-time REAL ID, vision tests, and new photos all need an in-person visit.
- Self-service kiosk — use a kiosk at select MVD offices. Fast and easy.
Steps to Renew
- Check your license status — Go to AZ MVD Now. Does your photo need an update? Are you over 65 and due?
- Gather your documents — Bring your license, SSN, and payment. Want a Travel ID? Add your ID and address docs.
- Complete the application — Log in to AZ MVD Now. Follow the steps. You can also visit an MVD office.
- Pass the vision screening — Over 65? You'll take a vision test. Same for photo updates.
- Receive your new license — Get a temp card right away. Your new one comes in 2 to 4 weeks.
Arizona Driver's License Renewal Fees
| Standard renewal fee | $10 |
| Duplicate/replacement license | $12 |
| Travel ID (REAL ID) upgrade | $25 |
| Name change | $10 |
| Motorcycle endorsement | $7 |
| Valid for | Until age 65 years |
You pay $10 to renew. A copy costs $12. AZ has very low fees.
What to Bring
Bring these docs when you renew:
- Current Arizona driver's license
- Social Security number
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport for REAL ID)
- Two proofs of Arizona residency (for REAL ID)
- Renewal fee payment
Who Can Renew Online
You can renew online if you meet these rules:
- Your license is not suspended, revoked, or canceled
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- You have no outstanding traffic violations
- You have a valid photo on file (taken within the last 12 years)
Get a new photo in person every 12 years. After 65, go in every 5 years.
Go to MVD online renewal portalWhat Happens If Your Arizona License Expires
AZ licenses don't expire till 65. There's no grace period. After 65, still no grace period.
- Before expiry — You can update your photo every 12 years
- After expiry — After 65, renew before your birthday to avoid driving expired
- Long-lapsed penalty — After 65, driving expired is a class 2 crime. Fines reach $750.
If you also need to update your vehicle registration, see our car registration renewal guide.
Important: You cannot drive with an expired license in Arizona. The window only affects how you renew. It does not let you drive past your expiry date.
Vision Test & Health Rules
- Vision test — Yes, at each in-person visit after 65. You also get a vision check every 12 years.
- In-person visits — Get a new photo in person every 12 years. After 65, go in every 5 years.
- Wait time — Online renewals take 1 to 3 days. Your new card comes by mail in 2 to 4 weeks.
Common Arizona License Renewal Mistakes
Watch out for these mistakes:
Assuming your license never needs attention
AZ licenses don't expire till 65. But you need a new photo every 12 years. Skip it? The airport may turn you away.
Not knowing about the Travel ID requirement
AZ's basic license isn't REAL ID. You need a "Travel ID" to fly. That means a trip to MVD with extra docs.
Forgetting the vision test requirement after 65
At 65, your license expires every 5 years. You need a vision test each time. This surprises many AZ drivers.
Using an authorized third-party office without checking services
Not all third-party MVD offices do every task. Check AZ MVD Now first. Can your spot handle your renewal?
REAL ID Info for Arizona
AZ offers REAL ID Travel IDs. Bring your birth cert or passport. Also bring your SSN card. You'll need two proofs of AZ address.
You need a REAL ID (gold star) to board U.S. flights. You also need one to enter federal buildings. This started May 7, 2025. Get one at your next in-person visit. See our full REAL ID deadline guide for costs and next steps.
Senior & Age Rules
At 65, your license starts to expire. Renew every 5 years. Pass a vision test each time.
What Makes Arizona Different
AZ licenses don't expire till 65. No other state does this.
You still need a new photo every 12 years.
AZ calls its REAL ID a "Travel ID."