How to Get or Renew Your Driver License in Flagler County, Miami

Where to Get Your Driver License in Flagler County

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues driver licenses in Flagler County through the Flagler County Tax Collector's office. This is the only place in the county where you can explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or handle most license-related transactions. The Tax Collector's office is located in Bunnell, which is the county seat, about 30 minutes south of Daytona Beach.

You cannot get a Flagler County driver license at a Miami location — Miami is in Miami-Dade County, which has its own separate DHSMV offices. If you live in Flagler County but work or spend time in Miami, you will need to travel to Bunnell for your license transaction, or you can visit a Miami-Dade County office if you have moved or changed your residency to that county.

Key Takeaways

The Flagler County Tax Collector's office in Bunnell is the only location in Flagler County where you can obtain or renew a driver license.
You will need to bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to complete your transaction.
Florida offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant driver licenses; REAL ID licenses cost more but work for federal purposes like domestic air travel.
You can renew your license by mail if you meet certain conditions, which saves a trip to the office.
Vision tests, written tests, and road tests are required for new licenses but not for renewals unless your license has been expired for more than a certain period.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Florida requires specific documents before the Tax Collector's office will issue or renew your license. Bring one document that proves your identity — a passport, military ID, or an out-of-state driver license all work. You also need proof that you live in Flagler County, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Your name on the residency document must match the name on your ID.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation of your immigration status. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted. If you are renewing and your address has not changed, some of these requirements may be waived, but call ahead to confirm what you specifically need.

Standard License Versus REAL ID License

Florida offers two types of driver licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The standard license works for driving and state identification but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic airplane or entering a federal building. The REAL ID license meets federal security standards and allows you to use it for those purposes without a passport.

The REAL ID license costs more than a standard license — the difference varies depending on whether you are getting a new license or a renewal. If you choose REAL ID, you will need to bring additional documents proving your identity and residency, and the office will verify your information more thoroughly. Most people in Flagler County choose REAL ID because the extra cost is modest and the federal uses are common.

How to Renew by Mail or Online

If your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions, you can renew by mail without visiting the Flagler County Tax Collector's office. You are may be able to access for mail renewal if your license is still valid, your address has not changed, and you have not had any license suspensions or revocations. You cannot renew by mail if you need to update your photo, change your address, or correct your name.

To renew by mail, contact the Flagler County Tax Collector's office or visit the DHSMV website to request a renewal form. Fill it out, include the required fee, and mail it to the address provided. Processing takes several weeks. Florida does not currently offer online license renewal for most transactions, so mail is your main option if you cannot visit in person.

Tests Required for New Licenses

If you are getting a driver license for the first time in Florida, you will take a written test covering traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a road test. The written test is given at the Tax Collector's office and covers material in the Florida Driver License Handbook, which you can read from the DHSMV website or pick up at the office. The vision test is also done at the office during your appointment.

The road test is scheduled separately and conducted by a DHSMV examiner. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you are under 18, additional restrictions explore — you may need to complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for a set period before you can take the road test. Renewals do not require these tests unless your license has been expired for more than a certain period or you have other issues on your record.

Visiting the Flagler County Tax Collector's Office

The Flagler County Tax Collector's office is open during standard business hours, typically Monday through Friday. Hours and exact location details change, so call ahead or check the DHSMV website before you go. Bring all required documents, arrive early if possible, and expect to wait — the office handles many transactions beyond driver licenses, including vehicle registration and property tax payments.

You will need to schedule an appointment or take a number when you arrive. Some transactions can be completed the same day; others require follow-up visits or mail processing. Ask the staff member at the counter what to expect for your specific transaction before you leave, so you know whether you need to return or wait for something in the mail.

If You Have Moved or Changed Residency

If you have moved from Flagler County to Miami-Dade County or another Florida county, you will need to update your address with the DHSMV. You can do this by renewing your license at your new county's office, or by mail if you meet the conditions for mail renewal. If you have moved out of Florida entirely, you will need to follow that state's process for getting a new license.

If you have moved to Miami-Dade County, you can visit any DHSMV office in Miami-Dade to update your license. Bring your current Flagler County license and proof of your new Miami-Dade address. The office will issue you a new license with your updated address, and you will not need to retake tests unless your license is expired or suspended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Flagler County driver license at a Miami DHSMV office?

No. DHSMV offices in Miami-Dade County handle only Miami-Dade County transactions. If you live in Flagler County, you must go to the Flagler County Tax Collector's office in Bunnell. If you have moved to Miami-Dade County, you can use a Miami office, but you will need to update your residency first.

How long does it take to get a new driver license in Flagler County?

If you pass all tests on your first visit, you can receive a temporary license the same day and your permanent license by mail within one to two weeks. If you fail the road test, you will need to schedule another attempt. Processing times vary depending on office workload and whether your background check requires additional review.

What if my documents have a different name than my current legal name?

Bring documentation of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Tax Collector's office will update your name in the system and issue a new license with the correct name. You may need to bring both your old and new documents to prove the connection.

Do I need a vision test to renew my license?

Not usually. Renewals do not require a vision test unless your license has been expired for a long time or the DHSMV has flagged your record for a medical reason. When you renew, the office will tell you if a vision test is needed.

Can I renew my license if it is already expired?

Yes, but the process may take longer. An expired license can still be renewed by mail or in person, but if it has been expired for more than a certain period, you may need to retake the written test or vision test. Call the Flagler County Tax Collector's office to find out what is required for your specific situation.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.