Where to get a Martin County driver's license
Martin County residents get their driver's license through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). You cannot get a Florida license from Martin County government directly — the county does not issue licenses. Instead, you visit a DHSMV office, which in Martin County is located in Stuart.
The Stuart DHSMV office is at 2001 SE Monterey Road, Stuart, FL 34996. This is the only full-service driver's license office in Martin County. You can visit in person during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally. Call ahead at the office or check the DHSMV website to confirm current hours before you go.
If you cannot reach the Stuart location or prefer to check availability, you can also search for nearby DHSMV offices in adjacent counties on the official Florida DHSMV website. Some residents use offices in Palm Beach County or St. Lucie County if the Stuart office has long wait times.
Key Takeaways
- Martin County driver's licenses are issued by the Florida DHSMV, not by county government, and the main office is in Stuart at 2001 SE Monterey Road.
- You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or documentation of your immigration status to get a new license.
- Florida offers both standard licenses and REAL ID-compliant licenses; REAL ID is required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting in 2025.
- Renewing a license can be done in person, by mail, or online through the DHSMV website, depending on your situation and how long your current license has been expired.
- The cost of a Florida driver's license varies by type and duration, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the office.
Documents you need for a new Martin County driver's license
Florida requires you to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. Bring one document from each category below.
Proof of identity: A valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. If you do not have any of these, you can use a certified birth certificate, naturalization papers, or a visa with your I-94 form.
Proof of residency: A recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill showing your name and a Martin County address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance policy also works. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, you can use a letter from a shelter or social service agency.
Social Security documentation: Bring your Social Security card, or a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form showing your number. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your immigration documents instead — your visa, I-94, employment authorization document (EAD), or green card.
Standard license versus REAL ID in Florida
Florida offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The difference matters if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building.
A standard Florida driver's license works for driving and everyday identification. Starting in 2025, you cannot use it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal courthouse, federal office building, or military base. If you do not travel by air or visit federal facilities, a standard license is sufficient.
A REAL ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. It allows you to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport. Getting REAL ID requires the same documents as a standard license, plus proof that your Social Security number is on file with the Social Security Administration. The REAL ID license costs slightly more than a standard license, and the fee varies depending on how long you want the license to last.
When you go to the DHSMV office, tell the staff whether you want a standard or REAL ID license. If you are unsure, ask — staff can explain which is right for your situation.
How to renew your Martin County driver's license
If your license is still valid or expired less than six months ago, you have three options: renew in person at the Stuart DHSMV office, renew by mail, or renew online through the DHSMV website.
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You can renew online if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed. Visit the DHSMV website, enter your license number and date of birth, and pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. The new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal.
Mail renewal works if your license is still valid or expired less than six months ago. The DHSMV mails renewal forms to license holders whose licenses are about to expire. If you received a renewal notice, follow the instructions, include a check or money order, and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks.
In-person renewal at the Stuart office is necessary if your license expired more than six months ago, if you have medical restrictions, if your address changed, or if you want to change your name or photograph. Bring your current license and proof of residency. The new license is issued on the spot or mailed to you depending on the type of renewal.
Cost of a Martin County driver's license
The cost of a Florida driver's license depends on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver's license valid for 4 years costs less than one valid for 6 or 8 years. REAL ID licenses cost more than standard licenses.
As of 2024, a standard 4-year license costs around $48, a 6-year license around $75, and an 8-year license around $100. REAL ID licenses cost approximately $15 more for each duration. These prices can change, so confirm the exact fee at the Stuart DHSMV office or on the DHSMV website before you visit.
The office accepts cash, personal checks, debit cards, and credit cards. If you pay by check, write it to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
What to expect at the Stuart DHSMV office
When you arrive at the Stuart office with your documents, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. Wait times vary — mornings and early afternoons are usually shorter than late afternoons. You may wait 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on how busy the office is that day.
When your number is called, a staff member will review your documents, take your photograph, and ask you to sign. You will then take a vision test and a written test about Florida traffic laws if you are getting a new license for the first time or if your license has been expired for more than a certain period. If you are renewing a valid license, you may skip the written test.
After you pass the vision test, you pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Keep the temporary license with you until the permanent one arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Martin County driver's license online if I moved to a new address?
No. Online renewal only works if your address has not changed. If you moved, you must renew in person at the Stuart DHSMV office or by mail with a form that includes your new address. Bring proof of your new Martin County residency.
What if my driver's license was suspended or revoked?
You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license at the DHSMV office. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation — usually by paying a reinstatement fee, completing a required course, or satisfying a court order. Contact the DHSMV directly to find out what you owe and how to clear the suspension before you visit the office.
How long does it take to get a new driver's license in Martin County?
You receive a temporary paper license when ready after you pass the vision test at the Stuart office. Your permanent license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you renew online, the license arrives in the same timeframe. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Stuart DHSMV office?
The Stuart office operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require appointments. However, you can check wait times on the DHSMV website before you go. If wait times are very long, visiting early in the morning or mid-week may be faster.
What if I lost my Social Security card and cannot find it?
You can bring other documents that show your Social Security number instead — a W-2 form, tax return, 1099 form, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your immigration documents. The DHSMV staff will help you figure out what works if you are unsure.