What You Need Before You Start

Florida issues driver's licenses through the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). To get one, you need to pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a driving test — unless you're renewing or transferring from another state. You'll also need to prove your identity, Social Security number, and Florida residency with specific documents before you can take any test.

The process takes at least two visits: one to submit documents and take the written test, and a second to take the driving test once you pass the written portion. Most people complete both within two to four weeks, though scheduling the driving test can take longer depending on your local office's workload.

You cannot take the written test or driving test without first submitting the required documents in person at a DHSMV office. Online pre-registration exists, but it only reserves your spot for the document review — you still must appear in person with originals.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, Social Security card, and two documents proving Florida residency (such as a utility bill or lease) to your first DHSMV visit.
  • The written test covers Florida traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official DHSMV handbook, which is free online at flhsmv.gov.
  • You must pass the vision screening and written test before you can schedule a driving test, which is administered by DHSMV examiners at their offices.
  • Bring your own vehicle for the driving test, and the vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition with functioning lights and wipers.
  • If you are under 18, you must first hold a learner's permit for at least three months and log 50 hours of supervised driving before you can take the driving test.

Documents You Must Bring to Your First Visit

DHSMV requires original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted. You need proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or visa), your Social Security number (bring the card or a tax return showing it), and two documents proving you live in Florida. Acceptable residency documents include a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and address.

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport and visa or green card.

Bring your Social Security card itself if you have it. If you don't, bring a recent tax return, W-2, or 1099 form showing your full Social Security number. DHSMV will not accept a letter from the Social Security Administration stating your number.

The Written Test and Vision Screening

The written test has 50 questions covering Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; ask at your DHSMV office which languages are available at your location.

You can study using the official Florida Handbook for Drivers, available free as a PDF on the DHSMV website. The handbook covers everything on the test. Many people study for one to two weeks before taking it, though the amount of time needed depends on your familiarity with driving laws.

Before the written test, you will take a vision screening. You must see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision screening, you cannot take the written test that day and must return after seeing an eye doctor.

Scheduling and Taking the Driving Test

After you pass the written test, DHSMV staff will give you information on how to schedule your driving test. You can schedule online through the DHSMV website, by phone, or in person at the office. The driving test is typically available within two to six weeks, depending on how busy your local office is.

Bring your own vehicle to the driving test. The vehicle must be registered in Florida, have current insurance, and be in safe working condition. The examiner will check that your headlights, taillights, brake lights, windshield wipers, and turn signals all work. If any of these fail the safety check, you cannot take the test that day.

The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. The examiner will direct you where to drive. You must follow all traffic laws during the test — speeding, running a red light, or failing to signal will result in failure. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least one week and pay the test fee again.

Special Rules for Drivers Under 18

If you are under 18, Florida requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least three months before you can take the driving test. During this time, you must log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. A licensed adult age 21 or older must be in the front passenger seat while you drive.

To get a learner's permit, you follow the same document and written test process as an adult. After you pass the written test, you receive the permit when ready. You then practice driving for three months and 50 hours before scheduling your driving test.

Once you pass the driving test, you receive a license valid until age 21. At that point, you can renew it for a standard eight-year term.

Costs and Payment

DHSMV charges separate fees for the written test, driving test, and the license itself. Fees vary slightly depending on the type of license and your age. As of 2024, a standard driver's license costs between $75 and $85 total, including all tests and the card. Payment is accepted in cash, debit, or credit card at DHSMV offices.

If you fail the driving test and need to retake it, you pay the driving test fee again. If you fail the written test, you pay to retake it as well. There is no fee to study or to schedule your tests.

If You Are Transferring From Another State

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, Florida may waive the written and driving tests. You still must visit a DHSMV office with your out-of-state license, proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents proving Florida residency. DHSMV will review your out-of-state record and may issue a Florida license without testing.

If your out-of-state license has been suspended or revoked, or if you have serious traffic violations, DHSMV may require you to take the written test or driving test anyway. Ask the staff at your local office whether your specific situation qualifies for a waiver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online?

No. You must take the written test in person at a DHSMV office. You can study online using the free Florida Handbook, but the test itself must be completed at an office with an examiner present.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it after waiting at least one week. You must pay the driving test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt requires a new fee and a new appointment.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a tax return?

Either one works. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or a recent tax return, W-2, or 1099 showing your full number. DHSMV accepts any of these as proof of your Social Security number.

Can someone else take the driving test in my vehicle if it's registered to them?

Yes. The vehicle must be registered and insured, but it does not have to be registered to you. Bring the vehicle's registration and proof of insurance, and make sure all safety equipment works.

How long is a Florida driver's license valid?

A license issued to someone age 21 or older is valid for eight years. A license issued to someone under 21 is valid until age 21, at which point you can renew it for a standard eight-year term. You can renew online or in person before expiration.