Florida driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it to last

A standard Florida driver's license costs $48 for an eight-year license or $20 for a four-year license. If you are under 21, a four-year license costs $20 and an eight-year license costs $48 — the same as an adult. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs $75 for an eight-year license. These prices cover the license itself; if you need a replacement card because yours was lost or damaged, that costs $25.

The fee you pay depends on which type of license you need and how long you want it valid. Most people choose the eight-year option because the per-year cost is lower, but you can pick the four-year option if you prefer to renew more often or expect your information to change soon.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard eight-year Florida driver's license costs $48; a four-year license costs $20.
  • A commercial driver's license costs $75 for eight years.
  • Replacement cards for lost or damaged licenses cost $25.
  • You pay the fee when you visit the Department of Motor Vehicles office or renew online, depending on which service you use.

Where the money goes when you pay

When you pay the license fee at a Florida DMV office or online, that money goes to the state's Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The fee covers the cost of producing the physical card, processing your process, and maintaining the system that stores license records. You cannot pay the fee separately from the process process — you pay it as part of getting or renewing your license.

If you renew online through the Florida DMV website, you pay the same fee but do not have to visit an office in person. Online renewal is available if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address, name, or other key information since your last license was issued.

What happens if you need a duplicate or replacement card

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement card for $25. This is different from renewing your license — a replacement keeps your current license number and expiration date, so you are not paying for a new license term. You order a replacement through the Florida DMV website or at a DMV office.

A replacement card usually arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the DMV office, though this is not always available for all types of replacements.

Fees for other types of licenses and endorsements

If you need a motorcycle endorsement added to your driver's license, that costs $10. An ID card (a non-driving state ID) costs $25 for four years or $48 for eight years — the same price as a driver's license. A commercial learner's permit costs $10, and a regular learner's permit is free but must be renewed every six months.

If you are renewing your license and want to add a new endorsement at the same time, you typically pay the endorsement fee in addition to the renewal fee. Check with your local DMV office about whether you can add endorsements online or whether you need to visit in person.

How to pay and what payment methods are accepted

At a Florida DMV office, you can pay with cash, debit card, credit card, or check. Online renewal through the Florida DMV website accepts credit and debit cards only. Some DMV offices may accept other payment methods, so call ahead if you have questions about what your local office takes.

When you renew online, you enter your payment information directly into the state's find system. When you renew in person, you pay the clerk at the counter. Either way, you receive a receipt showing what you paid and when your new license will arrive.

Fees for people under 18 and other special cases

A driver's license for someone under 18 costs the same as an adult license — $48 for eight years or $20 for four years. However, a learner's permit (which you get before a full license) is free. A restricted license for a minor costs the same as a regular license.

If you are renewing a license that expired more than six months ago, you may have to retake the written test and vision test, which means you pay the full license fee again rather than a renewal fee. If your license expired less than six months ago, you can usually renew by mail or online without retesting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Florida license online, and do I pay the same fee?

Yes, you can renew online through the Florida DMV website if your license is not expired and your personal information has not changed. You pay the same fee online as you would at an office — $48 for eight years or $20 for four years. Online renewal takes about 7 to 10 business days for your new card to arrive by mail.

What if I moved to Florida from another state — do I have to pay the full license fee?

Yes, you pay the full fee for a new Florida license. Florida does not offer a reduced rate for people transferring from out of state. You will need to visit a DMV office with your out-of-state license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.

Do I have to pay the license fee if I renew by mail?

Florida does not offer mail-in renewal for driver's licenses. You can renew online or in person at a DMV office. Both methods require you to pay the license fee at the time of renewal.

Is there a fee to take the written test or vision test for a new license?

No, there is no separate test fee. The $48 or $20 license fee covers the cost of the test, the license card, and processing. You only pay once, when you get your license.