You cannot get a new Florida driver's license entirely online, but you can renew or replace an existing one without visiting an office

Florida allows you to renew your current driver's license online through the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) website. You can also replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license online. However, if you are getting your first Florida license, moving to Florida from another state, or need to pass a vision or written test, you must go to a driver's license office in person.

The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs less than an in-person renewal. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. The replacement process for a lost or damaged license works the same way.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew your Florida driver's license online if your current license is valid and not expired more than 6 months ago.
  • You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license online for a $20 fee, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • First-time Florida license holders and people moving from out of state must visit a driver's license office in person.
  • You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to complete an online renewal or replacement.

Who can renew online

You are may be able to access to renew your Florida driver's license online if your license is currently valid or expired no more than 6 months ago. Your license must not have any restrictions that require an in-person visit, such as a medical condition that needs to be reassessed or a vision test that is due.

If your license expired more than 6 months ago, you cannot renew online. You will need to visit a driver's license office and may need to retake the written test. If you are over 79 years old, Florida requires you to renew in person every 6 years instead of every 8 years, but you can still renew online as long as your license is not expired more than 6 months.

Steps to renew your license online

Go to the DHSMV website at gorenew.com, which is Florida's official online renewal portal. Enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your record and show you the renewal fee, which is typically $48 for an 8-year license.

Review your personal information on the screen. If anything is wrong — your address, name, or other details — you cannot correct it online. You will need to visit an office or mail a corrected process. If everything is correct, proceed to payment. You can pay with a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. After payment, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

How to replace a lost or damaged license online

Visit gorenew.com and select the option to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license instead of renewing. Enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If your license was lost or stolen, you will be asked to confirm that you are reporting it as such.

The replacement fee is $20. After you pay, DHSMV will mail your replacement license to the address on file. If your address has changed since your license was issued, you should update it before ordering the replacement, or the license will arrive at your old address. You can update your address online through the DHSMV website or by visiting an office.

When you must visit an office in person

You cannot complete these transactions online: getting your first Florida driver's license, moving to Florida from another state and needing to transfer your out-of-state license, renewing a license that expired more than 6 months ago, taking a vision or written test, or changing your name or gender marker on your license.

If you need to visit an office, you can make an appointment through the DHSMV website to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are seen first. Bring your current out-of-state license or other proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Florida residency (such as a utility bill or lease).

What happens after you order online

After you complete your online renewal or replacement, your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. You do not need to do anything else. If your new license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the DHSMV at 1-844-33-RENEW (1-844-337-3639) or visit the website to check the status of your order.

If you need to drive before your new license arrives and your old one is lost or stolen, you can request a temporary driving permit at a driver's license office. The permit is valid for 30 days and costs $10.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my address changed since I got my license?

You can update your address online through the DHSMV website before you renew or replace your license. If you do not update it first, your new license will be mailed to the address currently on file. You can also update your address in person at a driver's license office.

Can I renew my license if it is suspended or revoked?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or in person until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the DHSMV to find out the reason and what you need to do to restore your driving privileges.

Do I need to take a new photo for an online renewal?

No. When you renew online, DHSMV uses the photo from your current license. Your new license will have the same photo unless you visit an office and request a new one.

How much does an online renewal cost?

A standard 8-year renewal costs $48. A 6-year renewal for drivers over 79 costs $36. A replacement for a lost or damaged license costs $20. Fees may vary slightly, so check gorenew.com for the exact amount before you pay.