Get a Florida driver's license by visiting a DMV office in person with your current license and proof of residency

You cannot change your existing driver's license to a Florida one by mail or online. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) requires you to appear in person at a driver's license office, bring your out-of-state license, and complete an process. The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter, and you will receive a temporary paper license the same day while your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

You do not need to pass a written test or driving test if you hold a valid driver's license from another state. Florida recognizes out-of-state licenses as proof that you already know the rules of the road. However, you will need to pay a fee (currently $48 for an eight-year license for drivers under 80), provide proof you live in Florida, and answer questions about your vision and medical history on the process form.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Florida DHSMV office in person with your current out-of-state driver's license and one document proving your Florida address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • You will not take a written or driving test because your out-of-state license counts as proof of driving knowledge.
  • Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or birth certificate.
  • You will pay a fee at the time of your visit and receive a temporary paper license when ready; your permanent card arrives by mail within 10 business days.

What documents you need to bring

Bring your valid out-of-state driver's license, one proof of Florida residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The DHSMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current Florida address as proof of residency. The document must show your name and address and be dated within 90 days of your visit.

For your Social Security number, bring your actual Social Security card, birth certificate, or a document from your employer or bank that displays it. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a W-2 form or tax return. You will also need to bring your current out-of-state license itself — do not leave it at home.

Finding a DHSMV office near you and what to expect

Search for a driver's license office on the official DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov. Enter your city or ZIP code to see all nearby offices, their hours, and whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment. Some offices are busier than others; offices in smaller towns often have shorter wait times than those in major cities.

When you arrive, take a number at the entrance and wait to be called. Bring all your documents in a folder so you do not misplace anything while waiting. The staff member will review your documents, ask you to sign the process form (DL 44), and take your photo and signature. You will then pay the fee and receive your temporary paper license before you leave.

Fees and license validity periods

A standard eight-year Florida driver's license costs $48 if you are under 80 years old. If you are 80 or older, a four-year license costs $10. These fees are current but may change; confirm the exact amount when you call or visit the office. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at the counter.

Your new Florida license will be valid for eight years from the date you receive it (or four years if you are 80 or older). You do not need to renew it early just because you moved to Florida; your out-of-state license remains valid until its original expiration date, but you should switch to the Florida license to avoid confusion with law enforcement or when presenting ID.

What happens to your out-of-state license

The DHSMV will take your out-of-state license when you complete your process. You will not receive it back. This is standard practice; Florida does not allow you to hold two valid driver's licenses at the same time. If you need proof that you held a license in another state for insurance or employment purposes, you can request a certified copy from that state's DMV after you leave Florida.

Your temporary paper license is valid when ready and works as a legal driver's license in Florida until your permanent card arrives. You can drive, show it to police, and use it for most ID purposes. Keep it in a safe place because you will need it if you are stopped before your plastic card arrives.

If you have a commercial driver's license or special endorsements

If your out-of-state license is a commercial driver's license (CDL), you cannot straightforward exchange it for a Florida CDL. You must pass the written test and skills test again in Florida. Schedule a CDL appointment at a DHSMV office and bring your current CDL, proof of residency, and Social Security documentation. The process takes longer and costs more than a standard license exchange.

If your out-of-state license has special endorsements (such as motorcycle, hazmat, or school bus), contact your local DHSMV office before you visit to ask whether Florida recognizes those endorsements or whether you need to test for them separately. Some endorsements transfer automatically; others require an additional written test.

Timeline and what to do while you wait

Your temporary paper license is valid the moment you receive it, so you can drive legally in Florida when ready after your visit. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days under normal circumstances. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the DHSMV office where you applied and provide your temporary license number.

You do not need to do anything while you wait. Your license is being printed and mailed automatically. Once it arrives, destroy your temporary paper license or keep it as a record. You are now a Florida driver and do not need to repeat this process unless you move out of Florida or your license expires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

This varies by office. Some DHSMV locations accept walk-ins during certain hours, while others require appointments. Check the office's hours and appointment policy on flhsmv.gov before you go. If appointments are required and none are available, you may be turned away.

What if my out-of-state license is expired?

An expired license still counts as valid identification for the purpose of exchanging it for a Florida license. Bring it anyway. However, if it expired more than a few years ago, the DHSMV may ask additional questions about your driving history or require you to take a written test.

Can I change my name or address on my license at the same time?

Yes. If you are changing your name due to marriage or court order, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court document. If you need to update your address, make sure your proof-of-residency document shows your current address. The DHSMV will update both during your visit at no extra cost.

What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have another document with my number?

Contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you visit the DHSMV. This takes one to two weeks. Alternatively, ask your employer or bank for a document showing your number, or bring a recent tax return or W-2 form. The DHSMV will not issue a license without proof of your Social Security number.

Can I renew my out-of-state license by mail instead of switching to Florida?

If you are a Florida resident, you must switch to a Florida license. You cannot renew an out-of-state license while living in Florida. However, if you are temporarily in Florida (such as for work or school) and plan to move back to your home state, check with that state's DMV about whether you can renew by mail while away.