Where to go for a driver license in Hollywood

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues driver licenses in Florida. In Hollywood, you can visit the Hollywood Driver License Office, located at 3001 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, FL 33020. This is a walk-in facility, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week.

You can also visit other DHSMV offices in Broward County if the Hollywood location is inconvenient — there are offices in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, and other nearby cities. The DHSMV website has a location finder that shows hours and services at each office.

If you want to avoid a trip to the office, Florida allows you to renew your license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions — your license must not be expired by more than five years, you must not have any medical restrictions, and you cannot be renewing for the first time. Check the DHSMV website to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal before you go in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hollywood Driver License Office is at 3001 Hollywood Boulevard and accepts walk-ins, though you may wait depending on the time and day.
  • You will need to bring a valid form of identification, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Florida residency — a utility bill or lease is usually accepted.
  • If your license is expired by five years or less and you have no medical restrictions, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting in person.
  • The cost of a driver license in Florida varies by age and license type, and the DHSMV website lists current fees before you visit.

Documents you need to bring

Florida requires you to bring specific documents when you visit. You will need a valid form of identification — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license all work. You will also need to prove your Social Security number, either by bringing your Social Security card or a document that shows it, such as a W-2 form or tax return.

For proof of Florida residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have one of these, the DHSMV website lists other documents that count as proof of residency.

If you are getting a license for the first time in Florida, you will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs. If you are renewing, you may not need to take the test again unless your license has been expired for more than five years or you have certain violations on your record.

Getting a license for the first time

If you do not have a Florida driver license yet, you will need to pass a written knowledge test and a driving test. The written test covers Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the official Florida Driver License Handbook, which is free on the DHSMV website.

After you pass the written test, you will be scheduled for a driving test at a later date. During the driving test, an examiner will ride with you and evaluate your ability to operate a vehicle safely. You must bring a vehicle that is registered and insured in Florida, and the vehicle must pass a safety inspection.

First-time applicants must also be at least 16 years old. If you are under 18, you will need to complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for a certain period before you can take the driving test. The DHSMV website lists approved driver education courses in Broward County.

Renewing an expired or expiring license

If your Florida driver license is expiring soon or has already expired, you can renew it at the Hollywood office or by mail or online if you meet the conditions mentioned earlier. When you renew in person, bring the same documents you would bring for a new license — identification, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency.

You will not need to take the written or driving test again unless your license has been expired for more than five years or you have had certain violations. The renewal process is usually faster than getting a license for the first time, and you can often complete it in one visit.

If you renew by mail, send your current license, the renewal form (available on the DHSMV website), and payment to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person renewal, so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

Cost and payment methods

The cost of a Florida driver license depends on your age and the type of license you are getting. A standard driver license for someone 21 and older costs one amount, while a license for someone under 21 costs less. The DHSMV website lists the exact fees, which may change year to year.

At the Hollywood office, you can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card. If you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order. The DHSMV does not accept payment by phone or email.

What to expect during your visit

When you arrive at the Hollywood Driver License Office, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. Wait times vary, but you may wait anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours depending on how busy the office is. The office is usually busier on weekdays during lunch hours and on Fridays.

When your number is called, you will go to a window where an employee will review your documents, take your photo and signature, and process your license. If you are getting a license for the first time, you will take the written test at a computer terminal in the office. If you pass, you will be scheduled for a driving test at a later date.

Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for your permanent license to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment at the Hollywood Driver License Office instead of waiting in line?

Florida does not offer appointments at most DHSMV offices, including Hollywood. The office operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, you can check the DHSMV website for any changes to this policy or for information about wait times at different times of day.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

You can get a replacement license at the Hollywood office by bringing your identification and proof of residency. You will need to pay a replacement fee, which is less than the cost of a new license. You do not need to take any tests for a replacement.

Do I need to pass a vision test to renew my license?

Yes, you will take a vision test at the office during renewal. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to see an eye doctor and provide a vision report before your license is issued.

How long does it take to get a driver license after my visit?

Your temporary paper license is valid when ready after your visit. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, contact the DHSMV to ask about expedited options.

What if I moved to Hollywood from another state?

You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Florida license at the Hollywood office. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency. You will not need to take the written or driving test if your out-of-state license is still valid.