How to Change Your Address or Name on a Florida Driver's License

How to Change Your Information on a Florida Driver's License

You can change your address or name on a Florida driver's license through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). Address changes are the fastest route — you can do them online, by mail, or in person at a driver's license office. Name changes require an in-person visit and proof of the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

The process depends on what you are changing and which method you choose. An address change takes a few minutes online and costs nothing. A name change requires documents and takes longer because DHSMV must verify the legal basis for the change before issuing a new license.

Key Takeaways

Address changes can be done online through the DHSMV website, by mail, or at any driver's license office, and cost nothing.
Name changes must be done in person at a driver's license office and require legal proof such as a marriage certificate or court order.
You will need your current Florida driver's license number and date of birth to change your address online.
A new license with your updated information typically arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you request the change.
If you are changing your name, bring the original or certified copy of the legal document that proves the change.

Changing Your Address Online

The online method is the fastest and most convenient for address changes. Go to the DHSMV website, select the option to update your address, and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and new address. You will need to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record or credit history. The system will verify your information and process the change when ready.

After you submit the change online, DHSMV will mail a new license to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives. If you need to prove your address change before the new license arrives, you can print a confirmation from the online system.

Changing Your Address by Mail or In Person

If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a completed form to DHSMV or visit a driver's license office in person. To change your address by mail, read and print the form from the DHSMV website, fill in your new address, sign it, and mail it with a copy of your current license to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes longer — typically 2 to 3 weeks — because DHSMV must receive, scan, and process the form manually.

Changing your address in person at a driver's license office is also free and takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. Bring your current Florida driver's license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and the permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Changing Your Name in Person

Name changes must be done at a driver's license office and cannot be done online or by mail. You must bring your current Florida driver's license and the original or certified copy of the legal document that proves your name change. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree with your new name, court order for name change, or adoption papers.

The DHSMV clerk will review your document, verify that it is valid, and process your name change. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and a permanent license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The fee for a name change is the same as the fee for a regular license renewal, which varies depending on how long you want the license to be valid.

What to Bring and How Long It Takes

For an address change, bring your current Florida driver's license and proof of your new address if you are doing it in person. For a name change, bring your current license and the original or certified copy of the legal document proving the change. Do not bring a photocopy of a legal document — DHSMV requires the original or a certified copy issued by the court or government agency that created it.

Processing times vary by method. Online address changes are when ready, but the new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Mail-in address changes take 2 to 3 weeks total. In-person changes at a driver's license office are processed the same day, and you receive a temporary license when ready. Name changes are always processed in person and take the same 7 to 10 business days for the permanent license to arrive by mail.

Finding Your Nearest Driver's License Office

DHSMV operates driver's license offices in every county in Florida. To find the office nearest you, go to the DHSMV website and use the office locator tool. Enter your city or ZIP code, and the tool will show you the address, phone number, hours, and current wait time for each office in your area. Some offices are busier than others, so checking the wait time before you go can save you time.

Many offices allow you to make an appointment online through the DHSMV website. Scheduling an appointment reserves your spot and usually reduces your wait time to 15 minutes or less. If you cannot find an appointment slot at your preferred office, try offices in nearby cities — they may have more availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I do not have a computer or internet?

Yes. You can change your address by mail or in person at any driver's license office. Both methods are free. In-person changes are processed the same day, while mail-in changes take 2 to 3 weeks.

What if my legal name change document is from another state?

DHSMV will accept legal documents from any state, including marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and court orders. The document must be an original or certified copy. If you are unsure whether your document is certified, call the DHSMV office before you visit.

Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?

No. Address changes are free. Name changes require a fee equal to a license renewal, which depends on how long you want the license to be valid — typically $48 to $75 for a standard license.

What if I moved but have not received my new license yet?

Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives. If you need to prove your new address before the new license arrives, you can print the confirmation from the online system or ask the driver's license office for a temporary paper license.

Can someone else change my address or name for me?

No. You must be present in person to change your name. For address changes, you can do it yourself online, by mail, or in person — no one else needs to be involved.

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.