Where to go for your driver's license in St. Johns County

St. Johns County residents get their driver's licenses through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). The main office that serves St. Johns County is located in St. Augustine. You cannot renew or obtain a license online or by mail for most transactions — you must visit in person and bring specific documents.

The St. Augustine DHSMV office is at 1801 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084. This is the primary location for St. Johns County residents, though some smaller services may be available at other branch offices. Call ahead or check the DHSMV website to confirm current hours, as they vary by season and may change without notice.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit the St. Augustine DHSMV office in person with a valid ID, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to get or renew a Florida driver's license.
  • A standard driver's license costs money that varies depending on whether you are renewing or obtaining a new license, and how many years you want it valid for.
  • Bring your current out-of-state license if you are moving to Florida, or your expired Florida license if you are renewing.
  • The office accepts walk-ins, but wait times can be long during peak hours — arriving early in the morning or on weekday afternoons typically means shorter waits.
  • You will take a written test, vision test, and photo at the office; bring your glasses or contacts if you use them for driving.

Documents you need to bring

Florida requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency. You cannot complete the transaction without all three.

For proof of identity, bring your current driver's license (from Florida or another state), passport, military ID, or state ID card. If you do not have any of these, bring a birth certificate plus one additional document like a school ID or employee badge.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, tax return, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. A bank statement or utility bill does not work for this requirement.

For proof of Florida residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail addressed to you at your St. Johns County address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement, credit card statement, or insurance bill typically does not count.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive at the St. Augustine office, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait until your number is called. Bring all your documents and be ready to answer questions about your driving history and any medical conditions that might affect your ability to drive.

At your appointment window, the staff member will review your documents, enter your information into the system, and collect your fee. You will then take a written test covering Florida traffic laws and road signs. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time.

After passing the written test, you will take a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, wear them during this test. You will also have your photo taken for the license. Finally, you may be asked to take a driving test, though many renewals and first-time licenses do not require one — the staff will tell you whether you need to schedule this separately.

Costs and how long the license lasts

The cost of a Florida driver's license depends on whether you are getting a new license or renewing an existing one, and how long you want it to be valid. A standard license is typically valid for 8 years, though you can choose a shorter period if you prefer. Costs vary, so ask the staff member at the office for the exact fee when you arrive.

If you are renewing a license that expired less than 6 months ago, you may be able to renew without retaking the written and vision tests. Bring your expired license and ask the staff whether you may have access to for this faster renewal process.

If you are moving to Florida from another state

You have 30 days after establishing residency in Florida to get a Florida driver's license. Bring your current out-of-state license along with your proof of residency and Social Security documents. You will need to pass the written test and vision screening, but you will not need to take a driving test if your out-of-state license is valid.

If your out-of-state license has been suspended or revoked, Florida will not issue you a license until that suspension or revocation is cleared. Contact the DHSMV or your previous state's motor vehicle department to find out the status of your license before you visit the office.

Renewing your license before it expires

You can renew your Florida driver's license up to 180 days before it expires. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. If you have not changed your address, vision, or medical status, you may not need to retake the written and vision tests — the staff will let you know.

If your address has changed, you must update it at the time of renewal. Bring your new proof of residency showing your current St. Johns County address. If you have had a change in your medical condition or are taking medications that might affect your driving, tell the staff member — they may require a medical evaluation before issuing your license.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

Florida does not allow online or mail-in renewals for most driver's licenses. However, if you are a member of the military stationed outside Florida, you may be able to renew by mail. Contact the DHSMV directly to ask whether you may have access to for this exception.

If you have a medical condition that makes it difficult to visit the office, call the St. Augustine DHSMV office and explain your situation. They may be able to direct you to alternative services or tell you about accommodations available at the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get your license after your visit?

Your license is usually issued the same day you pass all the tests and pay the fee. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while your plastic card is mailed to your address, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

What if you fail the written test?

You can retake the written test when ready at the same office visit, or you can come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. You will need to pay the test fee again if you retake it.

Do you need an appointment or can you just walk in?

The St. Augustine DHSMV office accepts walk-ins without an appointment. However, you can call ahead to ask about current wait times. Arriving early in the morning or on weekday afternoons typically means shorter waits than midday or Friday afternoons.

What if your address changed but you do not have a recent utility bill?

A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days also works as proof of residency. If you just moved and do not have any of these documents yet, ask the staff what other documents they will accept — some offices have flexibility for very recent moves.

Can you renew your license if it has been expired for more than 6 months?

Yes, but you will need to retake the written test and vision screening. Bring your expired license along with your other required documents. If your license has been expired for more than 5 years, you may need to take a driving test as well.