ADOT changing timetable for when ID photos need to be updated

The Arizona Department of Transportation is changing the timetable for when ID photos need to be updated.

ID photos will remain good for 16 years instead of 12 under a new state law that takes effect Saturday.

The change better syncs photo renewals with the expiration dates for federally compliant Arizona Travel IDs, which are good for eight years, although it applies to standard Arizona driver’s licenses, too.

“This new law now kind of merges those travel ID dates together so that you can get a new photo every other renewal period,” ADOT spokesman Bill Lameroux told KTAR News 92.3 FM on Tuesday.

What does new Arizona law on ID photos mean for residents?

The change won’t have an immediate impact, but Arizonans should be aware of the state’s ID photo requirements.

“Some people’s licenses don’t expire for several years. Some people may have had their photo taken recently to get that travel ID,” Lameroux said. “So, the main thing is … if you don’t remember when you took your last photo, it might be time to pop into the MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) office near you and get that photo taken.”

Lameroux said ADOT will be notifying people who might need to take action.

“You might get a letter in the mail from us, as well, encouraging you to get that photo updated so that it better reflects who you are today, not, say, when you were 21 or 22,” he said.

MVD offices accept walk-ins, but visitors can also make appointments to avoid longer waits.

“The other option people can do is there’s authorized third-party locations across the state, as well, that have after-hours and Saturday hours available, which might be more convenient for your schedule,” Lameroux said. “There is a convenience fee, but it’s exactly that — it’s a convenience opportunity.”

The MVD maintains a webpage with the latest information about Arizona identification cards.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s John Roller contributed to this report.

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