The Kendall Driver License Office Location and Hours
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles operates a driver license office in Kendall, located in Miami-Dade County. The office is at 8585 Coral Way, Miami, FL 33155. Hours vary by day — most offices in the Kendall area are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations extend into early evening on certain days. Saturday hours may be limited or unavailable.
Before you visit, check the official Florida DHSMV website or call ahead to confirm current hours, because office schedules change seasonally and may be affected by holidays or staffing. The phone number for the Kendall location is available through the DHSMV office locator tool on their website.
Parking is typically available on-site or in nearby lots. The office handles both written tests and road tests, though road test scheduling often requires advance reservation and may have a waiting list depending on demand in Miami-Dade County.
Key Takeaways
- The Kendall driver license office is located at 8585 Coral Way in Miami and handles written tests, road tests, and license renewals.
- Hours change by season and day of the week, so you should verify current hours on the DHSMV website or by phone before visiting.
- Road tests require advance scheduling and often have waiting lists in Miami-Dade County, so book as early as possible.
- Bring all required documents — proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number — to avoid being turned away.
- Walk-in service for written tests is usually available, but arriving early in the day reduces wait times.
What Documents You Need to Bring
Florida requires specific documents depending on what you are doing at the office. For a first-time license, you need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or valid out-of-state license), proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of Florida residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days).
For a license renewal, you typically need only your current license and proof of residency if your address has changed. For a road test, bring your permit, proof of identity, and proof of insurance for the vehicle you will be testing in.
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are usually not accepted. If any document is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well.
Written Tests and Road Tests at the Kendall Office
The Kendall office administers the written knowledge test for learner's permits and the road test for full driver licenses. The written test covers Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it on a walk-in basis at most times, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week.
Road tests must be scheduled in advance. You cannot straightforward walk in and request a road test. The Kendall office maintains a waiting list, and in Miami-Dade County the wait can range from a few days to several weeks depending on demand. Schedule your road test as soon as you are may be able to access — typically after holding your learner's permit for a required period.
The road test itself takes about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving judgment. You must provide a vehicle that is properly registered, insured, and in safe working condition.
How to Schedule a Road Test Appointment
Road test appointments in Florida can be scheduled through the DHSMV website, by phone, or in person at the Kendall office. The online system is usually the fastest option — you can see available dates and times and book when ready. Phone scheduling may have longer wait times because staff handle calls sequentially.
When you schedule, have your learner's permit number and a valid phone number ready. You will receive a confirmation with your appointment date, time, and any specific instructions for that location. Arrive at least 15 minutes early with all required documents and the vehicle you will be testing in.
If you need to cancel or reschedule, do so through the same system where you booked — online, by phone, or in person. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance usually do not incur a fee.
Wait Times and Best Times to Visit
Wait times at the Kendall office vary significantly by time of day and day of week. Early morning — typically the first hour after opening — usually has the shortest lines for written tests. Mid-morning and early afternoon tend to be busier. Late afternoon often sees another surge as people visit after work.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than Saturdays, though Saturday hours may be limited. Avoid visiting on the first day of the month or when ready after a holiday, when demand spikes. If you have flexibility, a Tuesday or Wednesday morning visit will usually mean a shorter wait.
For road tests, wait times are less relevant because you have a scheduled appointment. However, the overall waiting list to get an appointment can be longer during summer months and around major holidays.
What Happens If You Fail Your Road Test
If you do not pass your road test, you can schedule another attempt. Florida allows multiple road test attempts, and there is no limit on how many times you can retake it. However, each attempt requires a new appointment, and you may have to wait several days or weeks for the next available slot depending on office demand.
After a failed test, review the specific areas where you struggled — the examiner will note them on your test result. Many people find it helpful to practice those particular skills with a licensed instructor before retesting. You do not have to use an instructor, but it can improve your chances on the next attempt.
You must still hold a valid learner's permit to retake the road test. If your permit expires while you are waiting for a retest appointment, you will need to renew it before you can test again.
License Renewal and Other Services at the Kendall Office
The Kendall office also handles driver license renewals, address changes, and replacement licenses if yours is lost or damaged. Renewals can often be completed in 15 to 30 minutes if you have all required documents. Some renewals can be done by mail or online through the DHSMV website, which may be faster than visiting in person.
If you need a replacement license due to loss or damage, bring your old license if you have it, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The office can usually issue a replacement the same day.
Commercial driver license (CDL) services are not available at all DHSMV offices. Check the DHSMV website to confirm whether the Kendall location handles CDL testing, or you may need to visit a different Miami-Dade County office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment for the written test?
No. The written knowledge test is usually available on a walk-in basis at the Kendall office. However, wait times vary, so arriving early in the day typically means a shorter wait. Some offices have moved to appointment-only systems, so check the DHSMV website or call ahead to confirm the current policy.
Can I take my road test in a borrowed vehicle?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name. Bring proof of insurance for that vehicle when you arrive for your test.
What if I lose my learner's permit before my road test?
You can get a replacement permit at the Kendall office. Bring proof of identity and proof of residency. A replacement usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will need the replacement permit to take your road test, so handle this as soon as possible if your permit is lost.
How long does a driver license last in Florida?
Florida driver licenses are valid for eight years for most adults. Your expiration date is printed on your license. You can renew up to one year before expiration, and renewal can be done online, by mail, or in person at the Kendall office.
Is the Kendall office the only location in Miami-Dade County?
No. Miami-Dade County has multiple DHSMV offices. The Kendall location is one option, but you can visit any office in the county for most services. Check the DHSMV office locator to find other locations and compare hours and wait times.