When and how to update your Arizona driver's license
You can update your Arizona driver's license information without replacing the card itself — if your address changed, your name changed through marriage or court order, or you need to correct an error on the license. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) handles these updates, and most can be done in person at an MVD office or online through the ADOT website for address changes only.
If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you'll need a replacement card, which is a different process. But if the card itself is fine and only the information on it needs updating, you have faster options that don't require paying for a new license.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can be updated online through the ADOT website without visiting an office or paying a fee.
- Name changes require an in-person visit to an MVD office and proof of the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- Corrections to errors on your license (wrong birth date, misspelled name) are handled at an MVD office and typically cost nothing.
- You'll need your current Arizona driver's license and proof of the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court documents) when updating in person.
Updating your address online
The fastest way to update your address is through the ADOT website at azdot.gov. You'll need your current Arizona driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online system verifies your identity using this information and then lets you enter your new address.
Once you submit the address change online, ADOT mails you a new license with the updated address at no cost. The card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you don't have a gap in your driving privileges.
This online option is available only for address changes. If you need to change your name, correct an error, or update other information, you must visit an MVD office in person.
Changing your name at an MVD office
Name changes require proof of the legal change and an in-person visit. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order for name change, or adoption papers. ADOT will not process a name change without one of these documents.
Bring your current Arizona driver's license, the legal document proving the name change, and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). You'll fill out an process at the MVD office, and they'll issue a new license with your updated name. There is no fee for a name change update.
Processing time at the office is usually 15 to 30 minutes, and you'll receive your new license when ready. Your old license is no longer valid once the new one is issued.
Correcting errors on your license
If your license has an error — a misspelled name, wrong birth date, or incorrect address that you didn't authorize — you can have it corrected at an MVD office. Bring your current license and any documents that prove what the correct information should be, such as your birth certificate, Social Security card, or marriage certificate.
Error corrections are free and processed on the spot. You'll receive a corrected license when ready. ADOT considers these corrections different from updates you request, so no fee applies even though you're receiving a new card.
What documents you'll need in person
| Type of Update | Documents to Bring | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Address change (in person) | Current license, proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) | No fee |
| Name change | Current license, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order; proof of current address | No fee |
| Correct an error | Current license, birth certificate or other document proving correct information | No fee |
| Address change (online) | License number, date of birth, last four digits of SSN | No fee |
MVD office locations and wait times
Arizona has MVD offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you and check current wait times on the ADOT website at azdot.gov. Some offices are busier than others; rural offices typically have shorter waits than those in Phoenix, Tucson, or other large cities.
You can visit any MVD office in the state — you don't have to go to the one in your county. If your local office has a long wait, you may save time by driving to a less busy location. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time significantly.
Timeline for receiving your updated license
If you update your address online, your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you visit an MVD office for a name change or error correction, you receive your new license when ready before you leave. Address changes done in person at an office are also issued when ready.
Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives (for online updates) or until you receive the new card (for in-person updates). You don't need to do anything with the old license once the new one arrives — you can destroy it or keep it for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my address if I just moved and don't have a utility bill yet?
Yes. If you don't have a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days, you can use other documents such as a mortgage statement, insurance bill, or government mail addressed to your new address. Call your local MVD office to ask what documents they'll accept in your situation.
What if I changed my name but don't have the original marriage certificate?
A certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county clerk's office works just as well as the original. You can order a certified copy online or in person from the county where you were married. Some MVD offices will also accept a divorce decree or court order if you changed your name through those documents.
Do I have to update my license if I moved to a new address?
Arizona law requires you to notify ADOT of an address change within 10 days of moving. While you can still drive with an old address on your license, updating it is important for vehicle registration, insurance, and legal notices. The online update takes five minutes and costs nothing.
Will my insurance rates change if I update my address?
Your insurance company may adjust your rates based on your new address, but this depends on your insurer's policies and the area you moved to. Contact your insurance agent to update your address with them at the same time you update your license. Rates can go up or down depending on the risk profile of your new location.
Can I update my license information by mail?
No. Address changes must be done online or in person at an MVD office. Name changes and error corrections must be done in person. ADOT does not process license updates through the mail.