Where to Go for a Driver's License in Broward County, Florida

Finding a Driver's License Office in Broward County

Broward County has multiple locations where you can handle driver's license business, but the main office and the locations available to you depend on what you need to do. The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) runs Florida's driver's license system, and in Broward County they operate several service centers. The largest and most complete office is in Fort Lauderdale, but smaller offices in Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, and other cities handle many of the same services.

Not every location offers every service. Some offices handle only renewals and replacements, while others can process new licenses, commercial licenses, and road tests. Before you go, you need to know what transaction you are doing, because that determines which office can help you and what documents to bring.

Key Takeaways

The main Broward County DHSMV office is in Fort Lauderdale and handles all services, including new licenses, renewals, road tests, and commercial licenses.
Smaller offices in Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, and other cities offer limited services, so call ahead or check the DHSMV website to confirm your location handles what you need.
You can renew your license online through the DHSMV website if you meet certain conditions, which is faster than visiting an office.
Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and any other documents the DHSMV website lists for your specific transaction before you go.
Wait times vary by location and time of day; early morning and weekday visits are typically shorter than afternoons and weekends.

The Main Fort Lauderdale Office and What It Handles

The primary DHSMV office in Broward County is located at 1350 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. This office is open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 8:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. It handles all driver's license services: new licenses, renewals, replacements for lost or damaged licenses, commercial driver's licenses, road tests, and address changes.

Because this office offers the full range of services, it also tends to have longer wait times than smaller branch offices. You can check current wait times on the DHSMV website before you leave home. If you are doing a straightforward renewal and a smaller office near you offers that service, you may save time by going there instead.

Smaller Broward County Offices and Their Locations

DHSMV operates branch offices in Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, and other Broward cities. These offices typically handle renewals, replacements, and address changes, but not road tests or new license applications. Hours and exact services vary by location.

Before driving to a branch office, visit the DHSMV website or call the location directly to confirm it offers the service you need. Some offices close for lunch or have limited Saturday hours. The DHSMV website lists all Broward County locations with their phone numbers and hours.

Renewing Your License Without Visiting an Office

If your license is not expired and you have not had a suspension or medical restriction, you may be able to renew online through the DHSMV website. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person. Your new license arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot renew online if your license is already expired, if you need to change your address, if you wear corrective lenses and want to update that information, or if you have certain medical conditions. The DHSMV website has a tool that tells you whether you are may be able to access to renew online before you start.

Documents You Need to Bring

What you bring depends on whether you are renewing, getting a new license, or replacing a lost one. For any transaction, bring your current Florida driver's license or ID card if you have one. If you do not have a current ID, bring a passport or birth certificate.

For a new license, you also need proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days) and your Social Security number. For a renewal, bring your current license and proof of residency if your address has changed. For a replacement due to loss or damage, bring your current license if you still have it, or a birth certificate and proof of residency if you do not.

The DHSMV website lists the full document requirements for each type of transaction. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip, so check the list before you go.

Road Tests and Commercial Licenses

If you need to take a road test for a new license or to upgrade to a commercial license, you must go to the main Fort Lauderdale office or call ahead to confirm another location offers road testing. Road tests are scheduled by appointment, and you need to bring your current ID, proof of residency, and proof that you have passed the written exam (if required).

Commercial driver's license applications involve additional requirements, including a medical certificate and a written hazmat exam if you plan to transport hazardous materials. The DHSMV website has a detailed checklist for commercial licenses. Because the process is longer, plan to spend more time at the office.

Tips for a Faster Visit

Arrive early in the morning or on a weekday if you can; afternoons and Saturdays are busier. Check the DHSMV website for current wait times before you leave. Bring all required documents in a folder so you do not have to search for them at the counter.

If you are renewing and your license is not yet expired, doing it online saves you a trip entirely. If you must visit an office, the branch locations in less-populated areas like Coral Springs or Deerfield Beach often have shorter waits than the main Fort Lauderdale office, as long as they offer the service you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit a Broward County driver's license office?

Most DHSMV offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not require appointments for routine services like renewals and replacements. However, road tests and some commercial license services may require scheduling ahead. Call the office or check the DHSMV website to confirm whether you need an appointment for your specific transaction.

What if I lost my license and need a replacement right away?

You can get a replacement the same day you visit the office. Bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and payment. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, ask the office for a temporary license document you can use.

Can I renew my license if it has already expired?

You cannot renew online if your license is expired, but you can renew in person at any DHSMV office. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. There may be a small late fee depending on how long it has been expired.

How long does it take to get a new license after I explore?

If you explore in person, your new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you renew online, the timeline is the same. You can request expedited mail for an additional fee if you need it sooner.

What is the cost of a driver's license renewal in Florida?

Renewal fees vary depending on the length of the license (4 or 8 years) and whether you renew online or in person. Check the DHSMV website for current fees, as they change periodically. Online renewal is typically cheaper than renewing at an office.

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.