Estate Planning 101

Notifying the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division After a Loved One’s Passing

September 13, 2023

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Snug makes it easy to create a Will or Trust in under 20 minutes. Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives are included for free with any Will or Trust, as is a year of free updates.
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Losing a loved one is a challenging time filled with numerous responsibilities, including notifying various organizations. If your loved one held a driver's license or state ID, one such organization to inform is the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division (ADOT MVD).

Who Should Be Notified

The Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division issues driver's licenses and state IDs. If your loved one was a resident of Arizona and had either of these, it is necessary to inform the ADOT MVD to prevent identity theft and misuse of the deceased's license or ID.

When to Notify

You should notify the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division as soon as possible after the death of your loved one.

How to Notify

To report a death to the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division, a Family Member Affidavit must be completed and submitted. This form is available on the ADOT MVD's website. The completed form can be mailed or delivered in person to any MVD or Authorized Third Party office. Remember to attach a copy of the death certificate with the completed form.

What to Expect After Notification

Once the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division receives the notification, they will update their records to indicate that the individual is deceased. This prevents anyone from using the deceased's driver's license or state ID for fraudulent purposes.

Tips for Notification

When filling out the Family Member Affidavit, ensure all information is accurate to avoid any delays or issues. Keep a copy of the completed form and the death certificate for your records. It's also essential to keep a record of the date you submitted the notification.

Conclusion

Notifying the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division is an important task after the loss of a loved one. It ensures the protection of the deceased's identity and helps in the prevention of potential fraud. Despite the challenges faced during such times, understanding the process can make it easier to navigate.

FAQ

Q: Can I notify the ADOT MVD online?
A: Currently, there is no online process to report a death to the ADOT MVD. You must submit a completed Family Member Affidavit either in person or by mail.

Q: What if I can't find my loved one's driver's license or state ID?
A: If you can't locate the driver's license or state ID, you can still notify the ADOT MVD. You will need to provide the full name and date of birth of the deceased on the Family Member Affidavit.

Q: What happens if I don't notify the ADOT MVD?
A: If the ADOT MVD isn't notified, the deceased's driver's license or state ID remains active, which could potentially lead to identity theft.