What you need to do to switch to a Florida driver's license
If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and move to Florida, you must obtain a Florida driver's license within a certain timeframe. Florida law requires you to get a Florida license before you can legally drive there, even if your current license is still valid. The process involves visiting a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in person, passing a vision test, and paying a fee.
You do not have to retake the written driving test or the road test if your out-of-state license is valid and you meet Florida's requirements. This makes the switch faster than getting your first license. The entire process typically takes one visit to a local DHSMV office, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Florida DHSMV office in person with your out-of-state license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
- Florida does not require you to retake the written or road test if your current license is valid, but you will pass a vision screening.
- The fee for a Florida driver's license varies based on the type and length of license you choose, typically ranging from around $48 to $75.
- You can find your nearest DHSMV office and check wait times on the official Florida DHSMV website before you go.
Documents you must bring to the DHSMV office
Bring your current out-of-state driver's license, which serves as proof of your identity and driving history. You will also need proof of your Florida residency, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance policy with your Florida address also works.
You must provide proof of your Social Security number. This can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring documentation of that status instead.
Bring your current legal name documentation if you have changed your name since your out-of-state license was issued. This means a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other official document showing the name change. If your name on your out-of-state license matches your current legal name, you do not need this.
How to find a DHSMV office and what to expect
Visit the official Florida DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov to locate the office nearest you. The site lists all county offices, their hours, and current wait times. Some offices are busier than others—rural offices often have shorter waits than those in major cities. You can also call ahead to ask about typical wait times for your location.
Walk-ins are accepted at all DHSMV offices, but you do not need an appointment. However, some offices offer online appointment scheduling through the website, which can reduce your wait time. If your local office offers appointments, booking one in advance is worth the effort, especially if you have limited time.
Arrive with all your documents organized and ready to show. The DHSMV staff will verify your information, take your photo, conduct a vision test, and process your new license. The vision test is straightforward—you look through a machine and read letters or numbers. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test.
Fees and license types
The cost of your Florida driver's license depends on how long you want it to be valid. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Prices change periodically, so check the DHSMV website for current fees before you go. Most people pay between $48 and $75 for a standard driver's license.
You can choose to renew for four years or eight years at the time you switch. An eight-year license costs more upfront but means you will not need to return to the DHSMV as often. If you are unsure how long you plan to stay in Florida, a four-year license gives you flexibility.
The DHSMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most offices. Some smaller offices may accept only cash, so calling ahead to confirm payment methods is a good idea if you prefer to pay a certain way.
When you must complete the switch
Florida law does not set a single important date for switching your license, but you are required to have a Florida license before you can legally drive in the state. In practice, this means you should obtain your Florida license as soon as you establish residency. If you are stopped by law enforcement while driving on an out-of-state license after you have moved to Florida, you could face a citation.
Insurance companies may also question coverage if you have an out-of-state license but live in Florida. To avoid complications with your auto insurance, complete the switch within your first few weeks of moving.
What happens to your out-of-state license
When you receive your Florida license, your out-of-state license is no longer valid for driving in Florida. You can keep it as identification for other purposes if you wish—many people keep their old license as a keepsake or for travel. The DHSMV does not require you to surrender it, though some states request that you do.
If you plan to travel outside Florida and want to use your old license as a backup form of identification, you can keep it. However, for driving anywhere, your Florida license is now your legal license.
If you have a suspended or revoked license
If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward switch to a Florida license to avoid that suspension. Florida will see the suspension or revocation in your driving record and will not issue you a new license until the suspension is lifted or the revocation is resolved. You must address the issue in the state that suspended or revoked your license first.
Contact the DHSMV office in the state where your license was suspended to find out what steps you need to take. Some states require you to pay fines, complete a defensive driving course, or wait a certain amount of time before the suspension is lifted. Once that state clears your record, you can then switch to a Florida license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take a written test or road test to get a Florida license?
No. If your out-of-state license is valid and you meet Florida's requirements, you do not retake either test. You will pass a vision screening, but that is the only test required. This is one of the main advantages of switching rather than getting your first license.
Can I renew my out-of-state license by mail instead of going to Florida?
No. You must visit a Florida DHSMV office in person to switch to a Florida license. Florida does not allow you to renew an out-of-state license while living in the state. You must complete the in-person process at a DHSMV office.
What if I lost my out-of-state license?
Bring a copy of your out-of-state license if you have one, or contact the DHSMV office in your previous state to request a duplicate or verification of your license number. Bring whatever documentation you have along with your other required documents. The Florida DHSMV staff can often look up your driving record using your name and date of birth.
How long does it take to receive my Florida license after I visit the office?
You receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid when ready. Your plastic Florida license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. The temporary license is legal to use for driving during that time, so you can drive right away after your visit.
Can I change my address on my license at the same time?
Yes. When you switch to a Florida license, you are establishing your new Florida address on that license. Make sure the address you provide matches your proof of residency document. If you move again within Florida later, you can update your address online through the DHSMV website or at any DHSMV office.