Finding a Driver License Office in Broward County

Broward County has multiple locations where you can handle driver license matters, but the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) runs them all. You cannot walk into just any office — each location handles different services, and some require an appointment. The main full-service office is in Fort Lauderdale, but satellite offices in Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, and Coral Springs handle renewals and some other transactions.

Before you go to any office, check what you actually need to do. Renewing an expiring license, replacing a lost one, and getting your first license all require different documents and may be available at different locations. Some tasks can be done online or by mail, which saves you a trip entirely.

Key Takeaways

  • The main DHSMV office in Fort Lauderdale handles all services including new licenses, but satellite offices in Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, and Coral Springs handle renewals and replacements.
  • Many renewals can be completed online through the Florida DHSMV website without visiting an office at all.
  • You will need an appointment at most locations; walk-ins are not may provide service and may face long waits.
  • Bring your current license or ID, proof of residency, and any documents specific to your transaction before you go.

The Main Fort Lauderdale Office and What It Handles

The primary DHSMV office in Broward County is located at 1350 East Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. This location handles new driver licenses, commercial driver licenses (CDL), license suspensions and reinstatements, and all other services that satellite offices do not offer. If you need something beyond a straightforward renewal or replacement, this is where you go.

This office is also the busiest, so expect longer wait times even with an appointment. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 8:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. You must schedule an appointment in advance through the DHSMV website or by calling 1-844-435-7352. Walk-ins are accepted only if appointment slots remain, which is rare during peak hours.

Satellite Offices for Renewals and Replacements

If you are renewing an expiring license or replacing a lost or damaged one, you may be able to use a satellite office instead of traveling to Fort Lauderdale. Broward County has three satellite locations: Deerfield Beach (1801 East Hillsboro Boulevard), Pompano Beach (1400 South Federal Highway), and Coral Springs (2801 North University Drive). These offices handle renewals, replacements, and address changes, but not new licenses or CDL services.

Satellite offices typically have shorter wait times than the main office. Hours vary by location but generally run Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited Saturday hours. You still need an appointment; use the same DHSMV website or phone number to book one.

Renewing Your License Online or by Mail

Before you schedule an office visit, check whether you can renew by mail or online. If your license is not suspended, you have not had multiple violations, and you do not need to update your photo, you can renew online through the Florida DHSMV website. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than an in-person renewal. Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Mail renewal is also an option for some drivers. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires; follow the instructions on that notice to renew by mail. This route is slower — allow 2 to 3 weeks — but requires no office visit and no appointment.

What Documents to Bring

The documents you need depend on what you are doing, but all transactions require proof of identity and residency. Bring your current driver license or ID card, a document showing your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. If you are renewing, that is usually all you need.

If you are replacing a lost license, bring a police report of the loss if you have one. If you are getting your first license, you will need your birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DHSMV website lists full requirements for each transaction type.

Scheduling an Appointment

You can schedule an appointment online at the Florida DHSMV website (www.flhsmv.gov) by clicking "Schedule an Appointment" or by calling 1-844-435-7352. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. When you call or go online, select your county (Broward), the service you need, and your preferred location and time.

Appointments fill up quickly, especially at satellite offices and on Saturdays. If no slots are available for weeks, check back daily — cancellations open up slots throughout the day. If you cannot find an appointment in Broward, you may be able to book one at a less busy county and travel there instead, though that defeats the purpose.

What Happens If You Cannot Get an Appointment

If you cannot find an appointment and your license is expiring soon, you have a few options. First, try the online or mail renewal if you are may be able to access — no appointment needed. Second, call the main office directly at 1-844-435-7352 and explain your situation; staff may be able to fit you in or direct you to an alternative location. Third, arrive early on a Saturday morning when walk-in slots are most likely to be available, though this is not may provide.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but you cannot legally drive until it is renewed. Do not wait until the last minute; start looking for an appointment as soon as your license is within 6 months of expiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license at any satellite office or do I have to go to the main office?

You can renew at any satellite office in Broward County if you are just renewing or replacing a lost license. You only need the main Fort Lauderdale office if you are getting a new license for the first time, explore for a commercial license, or dealing with a suspension or reinstatement.

How long does it take to get a new license after my appointment?

If you renew in person, you receive a temporary license on the spot and your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you renew online, your license arrives by mail in the same timeframe. Mail renewals take 2 to 3 weeks total.

What if I moved to Broward from another state and need a Florida license?

You will need to go to the main Fort Lauderdale office because you are getting a new license, not renewing an existing one. Bring your out-of-state license, birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your Broward address. You will also need to pass the written and driving tests unless Florida recognizes your out-of-state license.

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

Appointments are strongly recommended and required at most times. Walk-ins are accepted only if appointment slots remain, which is rare. Schedule ahead through the DHSMV website or by calling 1-844-435-7352 to avoid a wasted trip.

What if my appointment time does not work and I need to reschedule?

You can cancel or reschedule through the DHSMV website or by calling 1-844-435-7352. Cancel as soon as you know you cannot make it so the slot opens up for someone else and you can book a different time.