What you need to do to change your Florida driver's license
You can change your Florida driver's license in person at a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office, by mail for certain changes, or online through the DHSMV website for limited updates. The method depends on what you're changing — your address, name, or other information — and whether you need a new photo or just a record update. Most changes require you to visit an office in person, but address changes can sometimes be handled online or by mail.
Florida does not charge a fee to change your address or correct errors on your license. If you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need to bring the legal document proving the change. The process typically takes a few minutes if you're at an office, or several weeks if you're mailing documents.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can be done online through the DHSMV website, by mail, or in person at any DHSMV office.
- Name changes require you to visit an office in person with a legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) proving the new name.
- Photo updates and corrections to other license information must be done in person at a DHSMV office.
- You do not pay a fee to change your address or correct information, but you may pay a fee if you request a new photo or duplicate license.
- DHSMV offices accept walk-ins, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time.
Changing your address online or by mail
If you've moved and need to update your address on your Florida driver's license, you can do this without visiting an office. Go to the DHSMV website and log into your account through the online services portal. You'll need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Once you confirm your new address, the change is recorded when ready, and you don't need to pay anything.
If you prefer to mail your address change, read the Address Change form from the DHSMV website, fill it out, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of a document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Mail processing takes about two to three weeks. Your current license remains valid during this time; you don't receive a new card unless you request one.
Changing your name on your license
A name change requires you to visit a DHSMV office in person. Bring your current Florida driver's license and the legal document that proves your name change. This document must be an original or certified copy — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree. The office staff will review your document, update your record, and issue a new license with your new name on the spot.
If your marriage certificate or divorce decree was issued outside Florida, you may need to bring a certified copy. Call your local DHSMV office before you go to confirm what documents they'll accept. The new license is free; you only pay if you want a rush or duplicate card.
Updating your photo or other license information
If you want a new photo on your license or need to correct information like your height, eye color, or organ donor status, you must visit a DHSMV office. Bring your current license and any documents needed for the change you're making. A new photo is free if you're correcting an error on the license; if you're straightforward requesting a new photo for appearance reasons, some offices may charge a fee.
Corrections to factual errors — such as a misspelled name or wrong date of birth — are free and can usually be done on the same visit. The office will issue your updated license before you leave.
Finding a DHSMV office and scheduling an appointment
Florida has DHSMV offices in every county. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the DHSMV website and using the office locator tool. Enter your city or ZIP code, and the tool will show you nearby locations, hours, and services offered. Not all offices offer all services, so check before you go — some smaller offices handle address changes and renewals but not name changes or new photos.
You can walk into any DHSMV office during business hours without an appointment, but wait times vary. To reduce your wait, schedule an appointment online through the DHSMV website. Select your office, the service you need, and your preferred date and time. Appointments are usually available within a few days. Bring all required documents with you; if you're missing something, the office may not be able to complete your change that day.
What documents to bring for each type of change
| Type of Change | Documents Needed | Where to Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Address change | Current license; proof of new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) | Online, by mail, or in person |
| Name change | Current license; original or certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree | In person only |
| New photo | Current license | In person only |
| Correct information (height, eye color, etc.) | Current license; documents proving the correct information if needed | In person only |
| Update organ donor status | Current license | In person only |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to change my address?
Online changes take effect when ready. Mailed address changes take two to three weeks to process. In-person changes are completed on the spot. Your current license stays valid while your change is being processed.
Do I have to pay to change my address or name?
No. Address changes and name changes are free. You only pay if you request a new photo for appearance reasons or want a duplicate or rush card. Correcting errors on your license is also free.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. You can update your address on an expired license. However, if your license has been expired for more than six months, you may need to renew it at the same time. Contact your local DHSMV office to confirm what you'll need to bring.
What if I lost my marriage certificate or divorce decree?
Contact the county clerk's office or vital records office in the county where you were married or divorced. They can issue you a certified copy for a small fee, usually between $10 and $25. Bring this certified copy to the DHSMV office when you change your name.
Can I change my license information by phone or email?
No. Address changes can be done online or by mail, but name changes, photo updates, and corrections to other information must be done in person at a DHSMV office. You cannot complete these changes over the phone or by email.