Where to start: the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
To change your Florida driver's license, you go to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), either in person at a local Driver License office or online through their website for certain changes. The method depends on what you're changing — your address, name, or other information — and whether you need a new photo or just a record update.
Florida allows you to handle some changes without visiting an office. Address changes can be done online or by mail. Name changes require an in-person visit and proof of the legal name change. Photo renewals and other updates may also require an office visit, depending on your situation.
The DHSMV operates Driver License offices across all 67 Florida counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DHSMV website. Some offices accept walk-ins; others use appointment systems. Checking ahead saves a trip.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can be completed online through the DHSMV website or by mail without visiting an office.
- Name changes require an in-person visit with a certified copy of your legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- You will need to bring your current Florida driver's license and proof of your new information to any in-person visit.
- Fees vary by the type of change; address changes are often free, while replacements or renewals may cost between $20 and $75 depending on the license type.
- Processing times range from same-day for in-person changes to several weeks for mail-in requests.
Changing your address without visiting an office
An address change is the simplest update. You can do it online through the DHSMV website by logging into your account, or by mail if you prefer not to use the internet. The online method is fastest — your record updates when ready, though your physical license still shows the old address until renewal.
To change your address by mail, send a signed letter with your name, driver's license number, old address, and new address to the DHSMV address listed on their website. Include a copy of your current license. Mail processing takes two to four weeks. Your license itself will not reflect the new address until you renew it.
If you need your physical license to show your new address right away, you must visit a Driver License office in person. Bring your current license and proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days works. The office will issue a replacement license on the spot or within a few days.
Changing your name: required documents and the in-person process
A name change always requires an in-person visit to a Driver License office. Florida requires proof that your name change is legal. The documents that count are a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order of name change, or adoption decree. A photocopy is not enough — the DHSMV needs a certified or official copy.
Bring your current Florida driver's license, the certified name change document, and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). Some offices may also ask for proof of your current address. The office will take your new photo and issue a replacement license. Most offices complete this on the same day or within a few business days.
If you do not yet have a certified copy of your name change document, you can request one from the county clerk's office where the document was issued. For marriage certificates, that is the county where you were married. For divorce decrees or court orders, it is the county where the case was filed. Certified copies usually cost $5 to $15 and take one to two weeks by mail.
Renewing your license early or replacing a lost or damaged card
You can renew your Florida driver's license up to one year before it expires. An early renewal is useful if you are changing your photo, address, or name all at once. Visit any Driver License office with your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The fee is typically $48 for a standard license renewal, though the cost varies slightly by license type.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you need a replacement. Bring your current license if you have it, or bring proof of your identity and Social Security number if you do not. A police report is not required but can help if you suspect fraud. Replacement licenses cost between $20 and $25 depending on the license type.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew or replace it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the DHSMV to check your driving record and learn what steps are needed to restore your license.
What to bring to a Driver License office
| Type of Change | Required Documents | Optional but Helpful |
|---|---|---|
| Address change (in-person) | Current license; proof of new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage, government mail dated within 60 days) | Proof of Social Security number |
| Name change | Current license; certified copy of name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree); proof of Social Security number | Proof of current address |
| License renewal or replacement | Current license (if available); proof of Social Security number; proof of current address | Police report (if lost or stolen) |
Fees and processing times
Florida driver's license fees depend on the type of change and the license class. Address changes are free if done online or by mail. In-person address changes on a replacement license cost $20 to $25. Name changes and early renewals cost $48 for a standard license. Duplicate or replacement licenses cost $20 to $25.
Processing times vary. In-person changes are usually completed the same day or within a few business days. Mail-in address changes take two to four weeks. If you order a replacement license by mail, add another two to four weeks. Rush processing is not available through the DHSMV, but some Driver License offices can issue a temporary license while you wait for your permanent one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if I do not have a Florida ID or passport?
No. Online address changes require you to log into your DHSMV account, which requires a Florida driver's license or ID number and your date of birth. If you do not have these, use the mail-in method or visit an office in person.
Do I need a certified copy of my marriage certificate, or will a photocopy work?
You need a certified copy. The DHSMV will not accept a photocopy or a copy you printed yourself. Request a certified copy from the county clerk's office in the county where you were married. It usually costs $5 to $15 and takes one to two weeks.
What if I changed my name but do not have the original court order or certificate?
Contact the county clerk's office where your name change was finalized. For marriage, that is the county where you were married. For divorce or court-ordered name changes, it is the county where the case was filed. They can issue a certified copy of the document you need.
How long does it take to get a new license if I change my name?
Most Driver License offices issue a new license the same day or within a few business days of your visit. If the office needs to verify your documents or your Social Security number, it may take up to two weeks. Call your local office to ask about their typical turnaround time.
Can I change my license online if I moved out of state but still have a Florida license?
No. Online changes require a Florida address. If you have moved out of state, you should update your address to your new state's address and then transfer your license to that state, or renew your Florida license with your out-of-state address by visiting a Driver License office or mailing in a request.