Where to go for a Broward County driver's license
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues all Florida driver's licenses, including those for Broward County residents. You cannot get a license directly from Broward County government — you must go through DHSMV, which operates driver's license offices throughout the county.
Broward County has multiple DHSMV offices where you can explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or handle other license-related transactions. The main locations include offices in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, and Coral Springs. Each office handles the same services, so you can visit whichever is most convenient to your home or workplace.
You can find the current list of Broward County DHSMV office addresses, hours, and phone numbers on the official Florida DHSMV website. Hours vary by location — some offices are open weekdays only, while others have limited Saturday hours. Calling ahead to confirm hours is worth doing, since office schedules can change.
Key Takeaways
- Florida's Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues driver's licenses for Broward County, not the county government itself.
- You will need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency — the specific documents accepted are listed on the DHSMV website.
- First-time Florida license applicants must pass a written test and a driving test at a DHSMV office; renewals do not require retesting unless your license has been expired for more than a certain period.
- You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person, depending on your age, license type, and how long it has been expired.
- Fees for a standard driver's license vary based on the license type and how many years you are renewing for, ranging from roughly $48 to $75 for a standard eight-year license.
Documents you need to bring to a Broward County DHSMV office
DHSMV requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency. You do not need to bring originals of every document — photocopies are usually accepted — but you should bring the actual documents so staff can verify them on the spot.
For proof of identity, DHSMV accepts a valid U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a certified birth certificate, or a foreign passport with a valid visa. If you do not have any of these, you can use a combination of documents like a Social Security card plus a school or work ID, though the rules for combinations are specific. Check the DHSMV website for the full list before you go, because showing up without the right documents means a wasted trip.
Proof of Social Security number can be your actual Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. Proof of Florida residency means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill — it must show your name and current Broward County address and typically cannot be more than two months old.
Testing requirements for a new Florida driver's license
If you are getting your first Florida driver's license or your license has been expired for more than a certain period, you must pass both a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test. The written test covers Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the official Florida Driver's Handbook, which DHSMV provides free online.
The driving test is conducted by a DHSMV examiner at the office where you explore. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The test typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions.
If you are renewing a license that is still valid or has been expired for less than a certain period, you may not need to retake the tests. The rules depend on your age and how long your license has been expired, so check with DHSMV or your local office to confirm whether you need to test.
Renewing your Broward County driver's license online or by mail
If your license is still valid or only recently expired, you may be able to renew it without visiting an office in person. DHSMV allows online renewal for many drivers — you can renew through the official Florida DHSMV website if you meet the age and license-type requirements. Online renewal is faster and costs less than in-person renewal in some cases.
By-mail renewal is also an option for some drivers. DHSMV will send you renewal forms and instructions if you request them, and you can complete the process by mail without visiting an office. The timeline for mail renewal is longer — typically two to three weeks — because your documents must be processed and your new license must be printed and mailed to you.
Not all drivers are may be able to access for online or mail renewal. Drivers under 21, those with certain license restrictions, and those whose licenses have been expired for an extended period must renew in person. Call your local Broward County DHSMV office or check the website to confirm which renewal method works for your situation.
Fees and payment methods at Broward County DHSMV offices
The cost of a Florida driver's license depends on the license type and the number of years you are renewing for. A standard eight-year driver's license typically costs between $48 and $75, depending on whether you are getting a new license or renewing an existing one. Replacement licenses (if yours is lost or damaged) may have a different fee.
DHSMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may also accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm payment methods at your specific location is wise. If you are renewing by mail, you will typically pay by check or money order.
Some Broward County residents may be may be able to access for fee reductions or waivers based on income or other factors, though these are limited. Ask at your local office if you believe you may may have access to.
What to expect during your visit to a Broward County DHSMV office
When you arrive at a DHSMV office, you will typically take a number and wait for your turn. Wait times vary widely depending on the time of day, day of the week, and which office you visit. Weekday mornings are usually less crowded than afternoons or Saturdays. Some offices use online appointment systems that let you reserve a time slot in advance — check the DHSMV website to see if your local office offers this.
When you are called, a staff member will review your documents, verify your information, and take your photograph for the license. If you are taking a written test, you will do that at a computer terminal in the office. If you are taking a driving test, you will be scheduled for a time slot and will take the test with an examiner in your own vehicle.
After you pass all required tests and your documents are verified, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license that is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to your address within one to two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Broward County driver's license before it expires?
Yes. Florida allows you to renew your license up to six months before it expires. Renewing early can be helpful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid a last-minute rush. The expiration date on your new license will be calculated from your current expiration date, not from the date you renew, so you do not lose any time on your license.
What if I lost my driver's license or it was stolen?
You can get a replacement license by visiting a DHSMV office in Broward County with proof of identity and proof of residency. You do not need to retake the written or driving test for a replacement. The fee for a replacement is typically lower than the fee for a new license. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent license by mail within one to two weeks.
Do I need an appointment to visit a Broward County DHSMV office?
Some DHSMV offices in Broward County offer online appointment scheduling, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the DHSMV website or call your local office to find out whether appointments are available. Even if appointments are not required, arriving early in the day typically means a shorter wait.
How long is a Florida driver's license valid?
A standard Florida driver's license is valid for eight years. Licenses for drivers under 21 may have different validity periods. Your license expiration date is printed on the front of your license card.
Can I change my name or address on my driver's license at a Broward County DHSMV office?
Yes. You can update your address or name at any DHSMV office by bringing proof of the change (such as a marriage certificate for a name change or a utility bill for an address change) along with your current license and proof of identity. Some address changes can be made online through the DHSMV website without visiting an office.