You can get a Florida driver's license from out of state, but Florida requires you to be a resident to hold one

Florida's Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues driver's licenses only to people who live in Florida. If you live in another state, you cannot hold a valid Florida license. However, if you are moving to Florida or have recently moved there, you can get a Florida license by visiting a local DHSMV office in person with the required documents.

The key rule is that your Florida address must be your primary residence — the place where you actually live most of the time. Using a friend's address, a vacation home, or a temporary address will not work. Florida also does not issue licenses to people who hold a valid license from another state unless they surrender that license first.

Key Takeaways

  • Florida requires you to be a resident of the state to hold a Florida driver's license, and you must show proof of a current Florida address.
  • You must visit a DHSMV office in person with your out-of-state license, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of identity.
  • You cannot hold a valid license from two states at the same time — Florida will not issue a license until you surrender your current out-of-state license.
  • The DHSMV office will take your out-of-state license when you receive your Florida license, so bring all documents in one visit rather than making multiple trips.

Documents you need to bring to the DHSMV office

Bring your current out-of-state driver's license or ID card. This is required, and the DHSMV will keep it when they issue your Florida license. You cannot keep both licenses.

Bring proof of your Florida residency. Acceptable documents include a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowner's insurance policy. The document must show your name and current Florida address. A bill dated within the last 60 days usually works, though requirements can vary by office.

Bring proof of your Social Security number. You can use your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. A birth certificate does not count as proof of your Social Security number.

Bring proof of your identity. Your out-of-state license serves this purpose, but you can also bring a passport, a military ID, or a birth certificate. If you bring a birth certificate, you will need a second form of ID as well.

How to find your nearest DHSMV office and make an appointment

Visit the DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov. Use their office locator tool to find the nearest DHSMV office to your Florida address. Not all offices handle license exchanges, so check the office details to confirm they issue driver's licenses.

You can make an appointment online through the DHSMV website or by calling 1-844-DL-FLOR1 (1-844-355-3671). Making an appointment ahead of time usually means a shorter wait, though walk-ins are accepted at most offices. Wait times vary by location and time of day.

Bring all your documents in one visit. The DHSMV will not issue your Florida license until they have received and verified all required documents, and they will take your out-of-state license at that time.

What happens during your visit to the DHSMV

When you arrive, you will check in and wait to be called. A DHSMV staff member will review your documents to confirm they meet Florida's requirements. They will verify your identity, your Social Security number, and your Florida residency.

You will take a new photo for your Florida license. You will also take a vision test at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

You will not take a written driving test or a road test unless you are under 18, unless your out-of-state license has been suspended or revoked, or unless the DHSMV has reason to believe you are not a safe driver. Most adults exchanging an out-of-state license skip these tests.

Once everything is approved, you will pay the license fee. The cost varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. You will receive your Florida license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office.

If your out-of-state license is expired or suspended

You can still exchange an expired out-of-state license for a Florida license. Bring the expired license along with all other required documents. The DHSMV will accept it as proof of identity and previous driving history.

If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, you cannot exchange it for a Florida license. You will need to contact the state that suspended or revoked your license to find out what steps you must take to restore your driving record. Once your suspension or revocation is lifted, you can return to the DHSMV and exchange your license for a Florida one.

If you do not have your out-of-state license with you, contact the state that issued it to request a replacement or a certified copy. The DHSMV will not issue a Florida license without your current or recent out-of-state license in hand.

Temporary driving permits while you wait for your Florida license

The DHSMV does not issue temporary driving permits during the license exchange process. However, if you are moving to Florida and your out-of-state license is still valid, you can legally drive in Florida on that license for a limited time while you arrange to get your Florida license.

Florida law does not specify exactly how long you can drive on an out-of-state license after you become a resident. The safest approach is to visit the DHSMV within a few weeks of moving to Florida. If you are stopped by law enforcement and cannot show proof that you have recently moved, you may face a citation for driving with an invalid license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my out-of-state license if I move to Florida?

No. Florida law requires you to exchange your out-of-state license for a Florida license once you become a resident. You cannot hold a valid license from two states at the same time. The DHSMV will keep your out-of-state license when they issue your Florida license.

What counts as proof of Florida residency?

A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance policy with your name and current Florida address usually works. The document should be dated within the last 60 days, though some offices accept older documents. Call your local DHSMV office if you are unsure whether a specific document will be accepted.

Do I have to take a driving test to exchange my license?

Most adults do not. If you are exchanging a valid out-of-state license and have no suspension or revocation on your record, you will take a vision test but not a written or road test. Drivers under 18 and drivers with suspended or revoked licenses may be required to take additional tests.

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

Most people receive their Florida license on the same day they visit the DHSMV office. In some cases, the license arrives by mail within a few days. Ask the staff member at your office what to expect for your specific situation.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must provide proof of your Social Security number to get a Florida driver's license. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration to explore for one before visiting the DHSMV. This process takes time, so plan ahead if you are moving to Florida soon.