Documents and identification you must bring

Florida requires you to present a primary identification document that proves your identity and date of birth. The state accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, enhanced driver's license from another state, military ID, or permanent resident card. If you do not have one of those, you can use a combination of secondary documents — a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, or a birth certificate plus a W-2 form or tax return showing your name.

You also need to prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a benefit statement from Social Security, SSI, or the Railroad Retirement Board. If you were born outside the United States, you must also show proof of legal presence — your passport, visa, employment authorization document, or permanent resident card.

Finally, bring proof of your current Florida address. The state accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, homeowner's insurance policy, or a government check or benefit statement dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or credit card statement will not work for this purpose.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one primary ID (passport, military ID, or enhanced license from another state) or a combination of secondary documents like a birth certificate and Social Security card.
  • Proof of your Social Security number is required and can be your card itself, a W-2, a tax return, or a benefit statement.
  • You need proof of your current Florida address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • If you were born outside the United States, you must also show proof of legal presence such as a passport or visa.
  • You must pass a vision test and written knowledge test at the Department of Motor Vehicles office where you explore.

The written test and vision screening

Before you receive your license, you must pass a written knowledge test on Florida traffic laws and road signs. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. You can study using the official Florida Driver's Handbook, which the Department of Motor Vehicles publishes online and distributes at every office. The handbook covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, alcohol and drug laws, and what different road signs mean.

You will also take a vision test at the DMV office. The test checks whether you can read a chart at a standard distance and whether you have adequate peripheral vision. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, you will be referred to an eye care professional and cannot receive your license until you pass.

Age requirements and restrictions for new drivers

Florida allows you to get a learner's permit at age 15 with parental consent. If you are under 18, you must hold the permit for at least one year and one day before you can take the road test for a full license. You must also complete a traffic law and substance abuse course — an eight-hour classroom course approved by the state — before you turn 18.

Drivers under 18 face graduated license restrictions. For the first three months after you receive your license, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless a parent or guardian is in the vehicle. After three months, the restriction shifts to 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18 or hold your license for one year, whichever comes later.

The road test and what the examiner checks

The road test lasts about 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the DMV office where you applied. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, turning, backing up, parking, and stopping. The examiner watches for your ability to control the vehicle, obey traffic signals and signs, use mirrors and turn signals, and maintain safe speed and distance from other vehicles.

You must bring the vehicle you will use for the test, and it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's lights, brakes, windshield wipers, and horn must all work. If the vehicle fails inspection, you cannot take the test that day. You must also bring your learner's permit and the documents you used to get it.

Fees and how to schedule your appointment

The cost of a Florida driver's license depends on how long you want it to be valid. A four-year license costs $48, and an eight-year license costs $75. If you are 65 or older, an eight-year license costs $10. These fees are paid at the DMV office when you take your test.

You can schedule your appointment online through the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles website or by calling 1-844-DL-FLHWY (1-844-355-3549). Online scheduling lets you choose your preferred office location and time. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but wait times vary widely, and you may not be seen the same day. Scheduling in advance is faster and more reliable.

Renewing or replacing a license you already have

If your Florida license is expiring or you need to replace a lost or damaged one, the process is different from getting a new license. You can renew online through the DMV website if your license is not expired by more than six months and you have not had any address changes. Online renewal costs $48 for a four-year license and takes about two weeks by mail.

If you cannot renew online, you must visit a DMV office in person. Bring your current license and proof of your current address if you have moved. Replacement of a lost or stolen license costs $25 and requires you to visit an office. If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it — you must contact the DMV to find out what steps are needed to restore your driving privileges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The Florida DMV offers the written test in Spanish, Haitian Creole, and several other languages. When you schedule your appointment online or call to book, tell the DMV which language you need. Not all office locations offer every language, so you may need to travel to a different office or wait for a later appointment date.

What happens if I fail the written test or road test?

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. If you fail the road test, you must wait at least one week before you can retake it. You pay the test fee again each time you retake either test. There is no limit on how many times you can retake the tests.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a Florida license?

Yes, Florida requires a Social Security number for all driver's licenses. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a standard license. You may be able to get an ID card from the DMV instead, which does not require a Social Security number, but it cannot be used for driving.

What if I was born outside the United States but I am a U.S. citizen?

You must show proof of legal presence, such as a U.S. passport or passport card. A birth certificate alone is not enough if you were born outside the country. Bring your passport or other legal presence document along with your other required documents to the DMV office.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the test?

Your temporary license is printed on the spot at the DMV office, and you can drive when ready. Your permanent plastic license card arrives by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving during that time.