Where Lee County driver's license services are located
Lee County operates a single driver's license office that handles all standard licensing services — new licenses, renewals, replacements, and address changes. The office is located in Fort Myers, the county seat, at 2280 West First Street. This is the only full-service location in Lee County where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new or renewed license.
The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on weekends and state holidays. Hours occasionally change around major holidays, so calling ahead at (239) 533-3600 before you go is worth the time. The office does not take walk-ins for road tests — those must be scheduled in advance through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) online system or by phone.
Parking is available on-site, though it can fill during mid-morning and early-afternoon hours. The building is accessible for people with mobility limitations. If you cannot reach the Fort Myers office during business hours, you can also handle some transactions — like address changes or license renewals by mail — through the DHSMV website or by mail to the state office.
Key Takeaways
- Lee County's only driver's license office is at 2280 West First Street in Fort Myers, open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Road tests must be scheduled through the DHSMV online system or by phone; the office does not accept walk-ins for testing.
- You will need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to explore for a new license.
- License renewals can often be completed by mail or online through the DHSMV website if you do not need to update your photo or address.
What documents you need to bring
Florida requires specific documents for a new driver's license, and the Lee County office will not process your request without them. You need one form of primary identification — a valid passport, military ID, or birth certificate — plus proof that you live in Lee County. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days all work as proof of residency.
You must also provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation showing you are ineligible for one. Bring the original documents or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed since your primary ID was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.
Minors under 18 need a parent or legal guardian present with their own ID. The guardian must also bring a certified copy of the custody order or birth certificate showing parental rights. If you are renewing an existing license and only need to update your address or photo, some of these requirements may be waived — call the office to confirm what you need before you go.
How to schedule a road test
Road tests in Lee County are scheduled through the DHSMV, not through the local office directly. You can book a test online at the DHSMV website (flhsmv.gov) or by calling 1-844-DL-FLORIDA (1-844-335-3567). The online system shows available dates and times at the Lee County testing location and lets you pick the slot that works for you.
You must pass the written test and vision test at the Fort Myers office before you can schedule a road test. The written test covers Florida traffic laws and safe driving practices; you can study using the official Florida Driver Handbook, available free online or at the office. The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. If you fail either test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day.
When you arrive for your road test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will use, and the vehicle itself. The vehicle must be registered, have working brakes and lights, and pass a safety inspection. If the vehicle does not meet these requirements, the test will be cancelled and you will lose your appointment slot.
Renewal and replacement options
If your license is still valid and you only need to renew it, you may not have to visit the office in person. Florida allows mail-in renewals for most drivers whose licenses are not suspended or revoked and who do not need to update their photo. You can renew online at flhsmv.gov if your license is not expiring within 30 days and you have a valid email address on file.
If you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license, you can request a replacement at the Fort Myers office or by mail. Bring your ID and proof of residency, the same as for a new license. A replacement usually takes one to two weeks if you request it by mail, or you can pick it up the same day if you explore in person.
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it by mail or online. You must visit the Fort Myers office in person and may need to complete additional steps — such as paying a reinstatement fee or providing proof that the reason for suspension has been resolved. Call the office before you go to confirm what documents you need.
Fees and payment methods
A new Florida driver's license costs $75 and is valid for eight years. A renewal costs $75 for an eight-year license or $25 for a four-year license if you are over 80 years old. A replacement for a lost or damaged license costs $25. These fees do not include the cost of the road test, which is separate.
The Lee County office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. If you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order made out to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Online renewals require a credit or debit card. Fees are set by the state and do not vary by location.
What to expect during your visit
Arrive at least 15 minutes early, especially during mid-morning and early afternoon when the office is busiest. Have all your documents organized and ready to show. The staff will review your paperwork, take your photo, and administer the written and vision tests if you are explore for a new license. The entire process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes if you pass all tests on the first try.
If you fail the written or vision test, you can retake it when ready at no additional cost. If you fail the road test, you will need to schedule another appointment through the DHSMV system. The office will issue your temporary license on the spot if you pass all tests; your permanent license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if it has already expired?
No. Florida only allows online renewal if your license expires within 30 days or is still valid. If your license has been expired for more than six months, you must explore for a new license in person at the Fort Myers office and retake the written and vision tests.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day at no extra cost. You have three attempts per visit. If you fail all three, you must return on another day to try again. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after reviewing the Florida Driver Handbook.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Lee County office?
No appointment is needed for written tests, vision tests, or license renewals in person. However, road tests must be scheduled in advance through the DHSMV system. Walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis, but wait times can be long during peak hours.
Can I get a Real ID at the Lee County office?
Yes. A Real ID is a federal-compliant driver's license that works for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. It costs the same as a standard license and requires the same documents, plus proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Ask the staff when you arrive if you want to add Real ID to your license.
What happens if I move out of Lee County?
You must update your address with the DHSMV within 30 days of moving. You can do this by mail, online, or in person at your new county's office. Your current license remains valid until it expires, but your address on file must match where you actually live.