Documents and identification you'll bring to the DMV

Florida requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. The state accepts a limited list of documents for each category, and you must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid passport, a valid passport card, a birth certificate (long-form, not a wallet card), a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of naturalization. If you're under 18, a school ID counts only if it has your photo and signature.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. A tax return also works.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage document, a property tax bill, a homeowner's insurance policy, or a bank or credit card statement. The document must show your name and current Florida address and be dated within 90 days of your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or similar), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Florida address dated within the last 90 days.
  • The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) does not accept photocopies, so bring originals or documents certified by the issuing agency.
  • If you're under 18, you also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form in person at the DMV office.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision screening, and a driving test before the license is issued.
  • Fees vary by license type and age; a standard adult license costs less than a commercial license or a license for someone under 18.

Age-specific requirements for drivers under 18

If you're under 18, Florida requires a parent or legal guardian to appear with you at the DMV office. They must bring their own photo ID and sign a consent form in front of a DMV employee. You cannot complete the process without this in-person signature.

Drivers under 18 also must complete a traffic law and safety course before taking the written test. This course can be taken online through an approved provider and typically takes four to six hours. The DMV maintains a list of approved courses on its website.

Once you pass the written test, you receive a learner's permit valid for 12 months. During this time, you must drive with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat. After holding the permit for at least three months and reaching age 16, you can schedule the driving test.

The written test and vision screening

The written test covers Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer 50 multiple-choice questions and score at least 40 correct to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; ask the DMV office which languages are available at your location.

Before the written test, you'll take a vision screening. You must see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them to your appointment. If you fail the vision screening, you'll be referred to an eye care professional and cannot proceed that day.

You can retake the written test the same day if you fail, but you can only take it three times in one visit. If you fail all three attempts, you must wait one day before returning to try again.

The driving test and what happens after you pass

The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, parking, lane changes, turns, and following traffic laws. You must use your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by a driving school. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. A DMV examiner will ride with you and score your performance.

You must pass both the written test and the driving test to receive your license. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day. There is an additional fee for each retake.

Once you pass both tests, the DMV issues your license on the spot. Your license is valid for eight years if you're 80 or younger, and four years if you're over 80. You'll receive a temporary paper license that day and your plastic card by mail within two weeks.

Fees and payment methods

A standard driver's license for someone 18 or older costs $75 for an eight-year license. A license for someone under 18 costs $45 for a four-year license. These fees cover the written test, vision screening, and driving test. Retake fees are lower and charged separately.

The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most offices. Some offices may accept checks; call ahead to confirm what your local office takes. You cannot pay online — payment is made at the DMV office when you take your tests.

If you need a replacement license (lost, stolen, or damaged), the fee is $25 and does not require a new written or driving test. A name change also requires a replacement license and costs $25.

Where to go and how to schedule your appointment

Visit the Florida DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov to find the DMV office nearest you. Most offices require an appointment, which you can schedule online through the same website. Some offices accept walk-ins, but wait times are often longer.

When you schedule online, you'll choose the type of service (new license, renewal, replacement), your preferred date and time, and your local office. You'll receive a confirmation number by email. Bring this confirmation number and all required documents to your appointment.

If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online at least 24 hours in advance so someone else can use that time slot. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may be charged a no-show fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Florida license if I don't have a birth certificate?

Yes. If you don't have a birth certificate, you can use a valid passport, passport card, consular report of birth abroad, or certificate of naturalization instead. All must be originals or certified copies. Contact the Florida DHSMV before your appointment if you're unsure whether your document will be accepted.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after waiting at least one day. You must pay the retake fee each time. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you must pass both the written test and the driving test to receive your license.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

No. If you're moving to Florida and have a valid out-of-state license, you can exchange it for a Florida license without taking the written or driving test. You still need to bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. The exchange fee is $75.

How long does it take to get a Florida license after I pass the tests?

You receive a temporary paper license the same day you pass both tests. Your plastic card arrives by mail within two weeks. The temporary license is valid for 30 days and counts as proof of your license status while you wait for the card.

What if I wear glasses or contacts?

Bring your glasses or contacts to your DMV appointment. You'll take the vision screening with them on if you normally wear them. If you pass the vision screening only with corrective lenses, your license will have a restriction requiring you to wear them while driving.