What you need to do to get a Florida driver's license if you already have one from another state

If you have a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Florida, you do not have to take the written test or the driving test again. Florida recognizes out-of-state licenses and lets you transfer directly to a Florida license. You will need to visit a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in person, bring specific documents, and pay a fee. The process usually takes a few weeks from the time you submit your paperwork.

Florida law requires you to transfer your license within 30 days of becoming a Florida resident. A resident is someone who lives in Florida with the intent to stay — not someone passing through or staying temporarily. If you wait longer than 30 days, you can still transfer, but you may face a fine.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a 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 driving test if your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended.
  • The transfer fee varies depending on how long your new Florida license will be valid, but typically ranges from around $48 to $75.
  • You have 30 days from the date you become a Florida resident to transfer your license, though you can do it later if needed.
  • Your new Florida license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks after you complete your visit to the DHSMV office.

Documents you must bring to the DHSMV office

Bring your current out-of-state driver's license. It must be valid — not expired, suspended, or revoked. If your license is expired but was valid when it expired, Florida may still accept it, but call your local DHSMV office first to confirm.

You also need proof that you live in Florida. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill all work. The document must show your name and a Florida address, and it should be dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved and do not have a recent utility bill yet, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord stating your move-in date can substitute.

Bring proof of your Social Security number. This can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

Bring a document that proves your identity and date of birth if it is not already on your driver's license. A birth certificate, passport, or military ID all work. If your out-of-state license shows your date of birth clearly, you may not need a second document — ask when you call to schedule your appointment.

How to find and schedule an appointment at a DHSMV office

Visit the DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov. Use their office locator tool to find the DHSMV office nearest to you. Enter your city or ZIP code, and the tool will show you all offices in your area, their hours, and their phone numbers.

Call the office directly to schedule an appointment. Many offices now require appointments, and walk-ins may face long waits or may not be seen the same day. When you call, tell them you are transferring an out-of-state license. They will tell you what documents to bring and whether you need anything beyond what is listed here.

Some DHSMV offices let you schedule appointments online through the flhsmv.gov website. Check your local office's page to see if online scheduling is available. If it is, you can book a time slot without calling.

What happens during your DHSMV office visit

A DHSMV staff member will review your documents to make sure everything is there and correct. They will ask you questions about your address, your name, and whether anything on your out-of-state license has changed. Answer honestly — if your name has changed due to marriage or a legal name change, tell them now and bring a marriage certificate or court order.

You will have your photo taken for your new Florida license. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in. The photo rules are the same as for passport photos — no hats, no sunglasses, and a plain background behind you.

You will pay the transfer fee. The cost depends on how long your license will be valid. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Ask the staff member what the fee is before you pay, or check the DHSMV website for current pricing.

You will not take a written test or a driving test. The staff member will process your transfer and issue you a temporary paper license that you can use right away. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. Use the temporary license until the permanent one arrives.

What to do if your out-of-state license is expired or suspended

If your license expired more than a certain number of years ago, Florida may not accept it for a direct transfer. The exact time limit varies, so call your local DHSMV office to ask whether your expired license can be transferred. If it cannot, you will need to take the written test and the driving test as if you were getting your first Florida license.

If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, you cannot transfer it. You will have to resolve the suspension or revocation in the state that issued it before Florida will issue you a license. Contact the DHSMV office in your former state to find out why your license was suspended and what you need to do to restore it.

Changing your name, address, or other information on your license

If your name has changed since your out-of-state license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. The DHSMV staff will update your name during the transfer process at no extra cost.

If you need to change your address after you receive your Florida license, you can do so online through the DHSMV website, by mail, or in person at any DHSMV office. Address changes are free and do not require a new photo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to transfer my license right away, or can I wait?

Florida law says you must transfer within 30 days of becoming a resident. If you wait longer, you may be fined. However, you can still transfer at any point after that — there is no important date beyond the 30-day window for when you must do it. The sooner you transfer, the sooner you will have a Florida license with your current address.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, bring documentation of that. Call your local DHSMV office before your visit to confirm what documents they will accept.

Can I transfer my license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You need a valid out-of-state license, proof of residency in Florida, and proof of your identity and date of birth. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen. If you have a visa or other immigration document, bring it along with your other documents.

How long does it take to get my Florida license after my office visit?

Your temporary paper license is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If you do not receive it after three weeks, call the DHSMV office where you applied and give them your temporary license number.

What if my out-of-state address is still on my license but I have moved to Florida?

That is fine. Bring your proof of Florida residency to your DHSMV office visit. The staff will update your address to your new Florida address during the transfer process. You do not need to update your out-of-state license first.