The documents Florida requires depend on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or moving to Florida from another state

Florida's Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number for all driver's license applicants. The specific documents that satisfy each requirement vary — you don't need every document listed, just one from each category. If you're renewing or replacing a license, the requirements are simpler. If you're a new resident or getting your first Florida license, you'll need to bring more paperwork.

You'll visit a Florida driver's license office in person to submit these documents. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies alone won't work. The staff will verify each document before you take your written and vision tests.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving your identity, one proving you live in Florida, and one proving your Social Security number — not all documents in each category.
  • A valid passport or passport card satisfies both identity and Social Security proof, so you may need only two documents total.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days of your process.
  • If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person at the license office.
  • Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one; Florida will not accept it as proof of identity but will note it in your file.

Proof of identity documents Florida accepts

Florida accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license as proof of identity. A valid passport or passport card is the strongest choice because it also proves your Social Security number, reducing the total documents you need to bring.

If you don't have a passport or military ID, an out-of-state driver's license works, but only if it's current and unexpired. Florida will not accept an expired out-of-state license as proof of identity, though you can still bring it as a reference document. If your out-of-state license is expired, you'll need a different identity document instead.

Birth certificates do not count as proof of identity in Florida, even if they're certified. You'll need one of the four documents listed above.

Proof of residency documents Florida accepts

Florida requires a document showing your current address and dated within 90 days of your process. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank or credit card statement all work. The document must show your name and your Florida address.

If you're homeless or living with family and don't have a utility bill or lease in your name, you can bring an affidavit of residency signed by the property owner or manager. This is a straightforward sworn statement confirming you live at that address. The DHSMV website has a template you can use, or the license office staff can provide one.

Mail from government agencies, insurance companies, or employers also counts if it shows your name and Florida address and is dated within 90 days. A cell phone bill does not count as proof of residency in Florida.

Proof of Social Security number documents

A Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or paystub all prove your Social Security number. If you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, you don't need a separate Social Security document — the passport covers both identity and Social Security proof.

If you're bringing a paystub or tax form, it must show your full name and full Social Security number. A paystub from your current or most recent employer works even if it's several months old. If you don't have a Social Security card and can't locate a W-2 or 1099, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you visit the license office.

Additional documents for first-time applicants and minors

If you're getting your first Florida driver's license and have never held a license in any state, bring your birth certificate (certified copy) along with the three categories above. You'll also need to complete the DHSMV's medical history form if you have any conditions that might affect your driving, such as seizure disorders or vision problems.

If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must appear with you at the license office and sign your process in person. Bring the guardian's ID and proof of guardianship (birth certificate showing the guardian's name, custody order, or adoption papers). If only one parent is listed on your birth certificate, that parent alone can sign. If both parents are listed and only one appears, bring a notarized statement from the absent parent authorizing the present parent to sign.

What to bring if you're renewing or replacing your license

If your Florida license expired within the last five years, you can renew by mail or online without visiting an office — you won't need to bring documents in person. If your license expired more than five years ago, you'll need to renew in person and bring the same documents as a new applicant: proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.

If you're replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, visit a license office with your proof of identity and residency. You don't need to reprove your Social Security number if you're replacing an existing Florida license. Bring your current address proof even if it's the same address as your old license.

What happens at the license office

Arrive with all documents in hand. The staff will check each document against the requirements, make copies for your file, and return the originals to you. You'll then take a written test on Florida traffic laws (unless you're renewing without an in-person visit), a vision test, and a photo. The entire process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes if the office isn't busy.

If a document is missing or doesn't meet requirements, the staff will tell you what's needed before you can proceed. You can go home, gather the correct document, and return another day. You won't lose your place in line or pay twice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a birth certificate as proof of identity?

No. Florida requires a passport, passport card, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license for identity proof. A birth certificate is used only to prove your legal name if you're a first-time applicant or if your name has changed. Bring it along with one of the four accepted identity documents.

What if my residency document is older than 90 days?

It won't be accepted. Bring a document dated within 90 days of your visit — a recent utility bill, bank statement, or lease. If you've just moved and don't have a 90-day-old document yet, an affidavit of residency signed by your landlord or property owner works instead.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a passport?

No. A valid passport or passport card proves both your identity and Social Security number, so you need only that plus proof of residency. If you don't have a passport, bring a separate Social Security document like a W-2, paystub, or Social Security card.

Can my parent sign my process if I'm 17?

Yes, if you're under 18. Your parent or legal guardian must appear in person at the license office and sign your process. Bring their ID and proof of guardianship (your birth certificate, custody order, or adoption papers).

What if I lost my Social Security card and don't have a W-2 or paystub?

Contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you visit the license office. You can request one online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. The replacement usually arrives within two weeks.