Where to Update Your Florida Driver's License
You can update your Florida driver's license at any Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office, online through the DHSMV website for certain changes, or by mail for specific updates. The method depends on what you're changing — your address, name, or other information — and whether you need a new photo or physical card.
The DHSMV operates driver license offices across all 67 Florida counties. You can find your nearest office and check current wait times on the official DHSMV website. Some offices are busier than others; smaller county offices often have shorter lines than those in major cities.
For address changes only, you can update online without visiting an office or paying a fee. For name changes, photo updates, or corrections to your license class or restrictions, you'll need to visit in person or submit documents by mail.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can be done online for free through the DHSMV website, while name changes and photo updates require an in-person visit or mail submission.
- You'll need to bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement), and any legal documents if you've changed your name.
- DHSMV offices accept walk-ins, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time.
- Renewal fees vary depending on the type of update, but address changes have no fee when done online.
- Processing times range from same-day for in-person visits to two to three weeks for mail submissions.
What Documents You Need to Bring
The documents required depend on what you're updating. For an address change, bring your current Florida driver's license and one document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days. A government-issued ID with your new address also works.
If you're changing your name, you'll need your current license, proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers), and proof of your new address. The name change document must be an official certified copy, not a photocopy.
For a corrected license due to an error on your current one, bring your current license and documentation of the correct information. If you're updating your photo, you'll need your current license and may be asked to provide a new photo or have one taken at the office.
Online Address Changes and What They Cover
The DHSMV online system allows you to change your address without visiting an office or paying a fee. You'll log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, enter your new address, and confirm the change. The updated address appears in the system when ready, though your physical license card still shows the old address until it expires or you renew it.
Online changes work only for address updates. You cannot change your name, photo, license class, or any other information through the online system. If you need those changes, you must visit an office in person or submit documents by mail.
The online address change is useful if you've moved and want your records current for vehicle registration, insurance, or voting purposes, but you don't need a new physical card right away. When your license expires, you can renew it with the correct address.
In-Person Visits: What to Expect and How to Schedule
Walk-ins are accepted at all DHSMV offices during business hours, but wait times vary widely. You can check current wait times on the DHSMV website before you go. Many offices are open Monday through Friday, with some offering limited Saturday hours. Hours vary by location, so check your local office's schedule.
You can also schedule an appointment online through the DHSMV website. Appointments typically reduce your wait time to 15 to 30 minutes, compared to one to three hours for walk-ins during busy times. Appointment slots fill up quickly in urban areas, so schedule as far in advance as possible.
Bring all required documents, your current license, and proof of your Social Security number if you don't have it memorized. The office will take a new photo unless you're only changing your address. Most updates are processed on the spot, and you'll receive your new license card in the mail within seven to ten business days.
Updating by Mail and Processing Times
You can update your license by mail for name changes, address corrections, and other non-photo updates. Send your current license, the required supporting documents, and a completed process form to the DHSMV address listed on their website. Include a copy of your proof of address.
Mail submissions take two to three weeks to process, plus mailing time in both directions. Your current license remains valid during this period. Once processed, your new license will be mailed to the address you provided.
Mail is slower than in-person visits but works if you cannot visit an office or prefer not to. Make copies of all documents you send, and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery. The DHSMV does not return documents you submit, so send only copies.
Fees for Different Types of Updates
Address changes made online have no fee. In-person address changes at an office also have no fee. Name changes, photo updates, and other corrections typically cost between $20 and $75 depending on the type of change and whether you're renewing your license at the same time.
If you're updating your information and your license is expiring within the next six months, you may be able to renew at the same time. Renewal fees are separate from update fees. The DHSMV website lists current fees for each type of transaction.
Payment methods at offices include cash, debit card, and credit card. Mail submissions may have different payment options; check the DHSMV website for current details.
What Happens If Your Name Changed Due to Marriage or Divorce
A name change due to marriage requires your marriage certificate (certified copy). A name change due to divorce requires your divorce decree or final judgment (certified copy). These documents must be official certified copies from the county clerk or court, not photocopies or digital images.
You can update your name in person at any DHSMV office or by mail. If you're updating in person, bring your current license, the certified name change document, and proof of your address. The office will take a new photo and issue a new license card.
If you're updating by mail, send copies of all documents along with your current license and a completed process. Keep the originals for your records. The process takes two to three weeks by mail or same-day if you visit an office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my address online if I just moved?
Yes. Go to the DHSMV website, log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, and enter your new address. The change takes effect when ready in the system, though your physical card will still show your old address until you renew. There is no fee for online address changes.
Do I need to get a new license photo if I'm only changing my address?
No. If you change your address online, your current license remains valid and no new photo is taken. If you change your address in person at an office, a new photo is typically taken and included on your replacement card, even though you're only updating your address.
How long does it take to get my new license card after an in-person update?
Your new license card is mailed to you within seven to ten business days after your in-person visit. Your current license remains valid during this time. You can use it for identification and driving until the new card arrives.
What if I lost my marriage certificate and need to change my name on my license?
Contact the county clerk's office in the county where you were married and request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This typically costs $10 to $25 and takes a few days to a week. Once you have it, you can update your license in person or by mail.
Can I renew my license at the same time I update my information?
Yes. If your license is expiring soon, you can renew it while making other updates. This combines the fees and processes into one transaction. Ask the DHSMV office staff whether it makes sense to renew at the same time based on your license's expiration date.