Where to go for a driver license in Leesburg

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) runs the driver license system in Florida. In Leesburg, you visit the local Driver License office to get a new license, renew an expiring one, or make changes to an existing license. The Leesburg office is located at 1819 W. Main Street, Leesburg, FL 34748.

You can also handle some driver license tasks online through the DHSMV website if you meet certain conditions — for example, if you are renewing a license that is not yet expired and you have no medical restrictions. Not all transactions work online, so check the DHSMV website first to see whether your specific need can be handled that way.

Walk-ins are accepted at the Leesburg office, but wait times vary by time of day and day of week. The office publishes its hours on the DHSMV website. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can save you a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • The Leesburg Driver License office is at 1819 W. Main Street and handles new licenses, renewals, and changes to existing licenses.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of Florida residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • The fee for a new driver license is different from the fee for a renewal, and fees vary depending on the type of license you need.
  • Some renewals and updates can be done online through the DHSMV website if your license is not yet expired and you have no medical restrictions.
  • Vision and written tests are required for new licenses but not for most renewals, unless DHSMV requests one.

Documents you need to bring

Florida requires you to bring specific documents to prove who you are and where you live. Bring one document that proves your identity — a valid passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous Florida driver license all work. You also need one document that proves you live in Florida, such as a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, or a bank statement with your name and address.

You must also provide your Social Security number or, if you do not have one, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you cannot provide either, you will need to bring additional documents — ask the office staff what those are when you call or visit.

If you are renewing a license and your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present.

Fees and payment methods

The cost of a driver license depends on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard Class D driver license (for regular driving) costs one amount if it is valid for four years and a different amount if it is valid for eight years. A commercial driver license (CDL) costs more. Renewal fees are lower than fees for a new license.

The DHSMV office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Exact amounts and current fees are listed on the DHSMV website, since fees can change. Call the Leesburg office directly if you want to confirm the fee before you go.

Vision and written tests

If you are getting a new driver license for the first time in Florida, you must pass a vision test and a written test at the office. The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. The written test covers Florida traffic laws and road signs — you can study using the official Florida Driver Handbook, which is free on the DHSMV website.

If you are renewing a license you already have, you usually do not take a test. However, DHSMV may require you to take a vision test or written test if your medical history suggests you should, or if you have had certain violations. The office will tell you if a test is required when you arrive.

You are allowed to take the written test up to three times in one visit if you do not pass on your first try. If you fail all three times, you must wait seven days before you can take the test again.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass the vision and written tests (if required) and your documents are verified, DHSMV takes your photograph and fingerprints. Your temporary driver license is printed on the spot and is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license is mailed to the address you provide, usually within one to two weeks.

If you need to drive before your permanent license arrives, the temporary license is valid for all driving purposes. Keep it with you while you drive. When your permanent license arrives, destroy the temporary one.

Renewing by mail or online

If your current Florida driver license is not yet expired and you have no medical restrictions, you may be able to renew by mail or online without visiting the office. The DHSMV website has a tool that lets you check whether you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal.

Mail renewal takes longer — typically two to three weeks for your new license to arrive — but it requires no office visit. Online renewal is faster and you can do it from home, but not all license types are may be able to access. If you renew online, your temporary license is emailed to you and your permanent license is mailed separately.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your driver license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must visit the Leesburg office in person to get a replacement. Bring the same documents you would bring for a renewal — proof of identity and proof of residency. You do not need to take a vision or written test for a replacement.

The fee for a replacement is lower than the fee for a new license but higher than the fee for a standard renewal. If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police and bring a copy of the police report, though it is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a driver license in Leesburg?

You receive a temporary license on the spot that is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license is mailed to you and usually arrives within one to two weeks. If you renew by mail, the entire process takes two to three weeks.

Can I renew my driver license if it has already expired?

Yes, but you cannot renew online or by mail if your license is expired. You must visit the Leesburg office in person. You may also need to retake the vision test or written test if your license has been expired for a long time — ask the office when you call.

What if I fail the written test?

You can take it again up to two more times during the same visit at no extra cost. If you fail all three times, you must wait seven days before you can try again. You can study the Florida Driver Handbook on the DHSMV website to prepare.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Leesburg office?

Walk-ins are accepted, but you can check the DHSMV website to see if appointments are available. Calling ahead to ask about wait times helps you plan your visit. Some times of day are less busy than others.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name on your new license at no extra charge.