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 is not available — you must renew at 21. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs $75 for an eight-year term. These prices do not include any additional fees the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) may charge for specific services, such as duplicate licenses or address changes.
The fee you pay depends on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card. Each transaction type has its own cost, and some require extra fees on top of the base license price.
Key Takeaways
- A standard eight-year Florida driver's license costs $48; a four-year license costs $20.
- Drivers under 21 can only get a four-year license for $20 and must renew when they turn 21.
- A commercial driver's license costs $75 for eight years.
- Duplicate licenses, address changes, and other services add fees beyond the base license cost.
- You can pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card at any Florida DHSMV office or online through the DHSMV website.
Getting your first Florida driver's license
Your first license requires more than just the fee. You must pass a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a driving test. The $48 (or $20 for four years) covers only the license itself, not the testing process. You do not pay a separate testing fee — the license fee includes the right to take the tests.
You will need to bring documents to prove your identity, Social Security number, and Florida residency. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, passport, or state ID, plus proof of address such as a utility bill or lease. The DHSMV website lists all acceptable documents so you can bring the right ones on your first visit and avoid a return trip.
Renewing an existing Florida driver's license
Renewing costs the same as getting a new license: $48 for eight years or $20 for four years. You do not retake the written or driving tests unless the DHSMV has reason to require them. Most renewals can be done by mail, online, or in person at a DHSMV office.
Online renewal through the DHSMV website is the fastest option if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change. Mail renewal takes longer but avoids a trip to an office. In-person renewal at a DHSMV office is required if your license has been expired for more than six months, if you need a new photo, or if you have changed your name.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
A duplicate or replacement license costs $10 if you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card. This is less than a renewal because you are not paying for a new eight-year or four-year term — you are getting a copy of your existing license with the same expiration date. If your license has expired and you need a replacement, you must renew instead, which costs the full $48 or $20.
You can order a duplicate online through the DHSMV website, by mail, or in person. Online ordering is the fastest; the card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. In-person replacement at a DHSMV office is when ready if you have the right documents.
Other fees and services
Changing your address on your license costs $10 if done in person at a DHSMV office. You can change your address online for free through the DHSMV website if you have a valid Florida license. A name change requires a new license photo and costs the full renewal fee ($48 or $20), not just an address change fee.
If you need to add or remove a restriction code (such as corrective lenses or an ignition interlock device), the DHSMV charges $10. Upgrading from a standard license to a REAL ID-compliant license costs $10 additional if done at the same time as a renewal or replacement.
How and where to pay
You can pay at any Florida DHSMV office in person using cash, check, money order, or credit card. Online transactions through the DHSMV website accept credit and debit cards. Mail-in renewals require a check or money order. Some DHSMV offices have payment kiosks that accept cards and cash.
If you are renewing online, you will be directed to a find payment page after you complete your process. The DHSMV processes the payment when ready and sends your new license by mail. If you are paying in person, bring your payment method and all required documents to speed up the transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay the full license fee if my license expires soon?
Yes. Florida charges the same fee regardless of how much time remains on your current license. You cannot pay a reduced fee for a shorter renewal period unless you choose the four-year option instead of eight years at the time of renewal.
Can I pay the license fee online without going to an office?
Yes, if you are renewing online through the DHSMV website. You complete the process, pay by credit or debit card, and your new license is mailed to you. Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change.
What if I cannot afford the license fee right now?
The DHSMV does not offer payment plans or fee waivers for driver's licenses. You must pay the full fee at the time of process. Some community organizations or legal aid offices may have information about resources in your area, but the DHSMV itself does not reduce or defer the cost.
Is the REAL ID upgrade fee included in the renewal cost?
No. A REAL ID upgrade costs $10 on top of the renewal fee. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license, you pay $48 (or $20 for four years) for the license plus $10 for the REAL ID designation, totaling $58 (or $30 for four years).
Do I pay the same fee if I renew early?
Yes. Early renewal costs the same as a standard renewal. Some states allow you to renew up to six months before expiration and extend your license term; Florida allows early renewal but charges the full fee and does not extend your term beyond the normal eight or four years.