Bring these documents to the DMV for a Florida driver's license
You need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to get a Florida driver's license. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) requires specific documents — not just any ID will work. Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies, because the clerk will examine them in person.
The documents you bring depend on whether you are getting your first Florida license, renewing an existing one, or moving to Florida from another state. A first-time applicant needs different paperwork than someone who already holds a Florida license. This guide covers what to bring for a new Florida driver's license if you do not currently hold one from Florida.
Key Takeaways
- Bring one document proving your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state driver's license.
- Bring two documents proving you live in Florida, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
- Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your full Social Security number.
- Bring the completed process form (HSMV 82053) or fill it out at the office before you see the clerk.
- Bring payment for the license fee, which varies by license type and how long you want it to last.
Proof of identity documents that DHSMV accepts
You must bring one document that proves who you are. The DHSMV accepts a U.S. passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid driver's license from another state, a military ID, a passport card, or a Trusted Traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST). If you are under 18, you can also bring a school ID issued by a public or private school in Florida.
Your identity document must be original or certified. A photocopy will not work, even if it is notarized. If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, bring the original and a certified English translation. If your name has changed since your identity document was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree.
Proof of residency documents that DHSMV accepts
You must bring two documents that prove you live in Florida. Both documents must show your current name and current Florida address, and both must be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowners insurance policy, a bank or credit card statement, or a government check or benefit statement.
If you live with someone else and do not have documents in your own name, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the documents, plus one document showing your name and the shared address. The affidavit must state that you live at that address. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask the DHSMV office what documents they will accept — some offices have alternative procedures.
Your Social Security number and tax ID
Bring your Social Security card or another document that shows your full Social Security number. Acceptable documents include a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a Social Security statement, a tax return, or a benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid. The document must be original or certified, not a photocopy.
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a Florida driver's license, but you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number. Bring that letter along with your other documents.
The process form and payment
Bring the completed process form HSMV 82053, or you can fill it out at the DHSMV office before you see the clerk. You can read the form from the DHSMV website or pick one up at any DHSMV office. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and other basic information. You will sign it in front of the clerk.
Bring payment for your license fee. The cost depends on the type of license (standard, commercial, or motorcycle) and how long you want it to last (4, 6, or 8 years). Standard licenses cost between $48 and $87 depending on the term. The DHSMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Ask the office what payment methods they take before you go, because some smaller offices may not accept all types.
What to bring if you are renewing or replacing a license
If you already have a valid Florida driver's license and are renewing it, you do not need to bring proof of identity or residency — only your current license, payment, and the completed process form. If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, bring a police report (if it was stolen) or a statement explaining what happened, plus payment for a replacement.
If you are moving to Florida from another state and want to exchange your out-of-state license for a Florida one, bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Florida residency, and payment. You do not need to bring proof of identity again because your out-of-state license serves that purpose.
What to bring for the vision and written test
If you are getting your first Florida license or your license has been expired for more than 6 months, you will take a vision test and a written test at the DHSMV office. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them — the vision test will be done with your correction. You do not need to bring study materials; the DHSMV provides the written test on a computer at the office.
If you are getting a commercial driver's license (CDL), you will also take a skills test (driving test). Bring a vehicle that meets the requirements for the class of CDL you are testing for. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in working condition. Bring proof of insurance and the vehicle registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a photocopy of my birth certificate or passport?
No. The DHSMV requires original documents or certified copies. A photocopy, even if notarized, will not be accepted. If you do not have the original, contact the issuing agency (the vital records office for a birth certificate, the State Department for a passport) and request a certified copy.
What if my address on my ID does not match my current Florida address?
Bring two documents showing your current Florida address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill and a lease. The DHSMV will update your address on your new license based on those documents, even if your identity document shows an old address.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a different document with my number?
You can bring any document that shows your full Social Security number, such as a W-2, tax return, or Social Security statement. The Social Security card itself is not required. The document must be original or certified.
What if I do not have two documents for proof of residency?
Contact the DHSMV office in your county before you go. Some offices will accept a notarized affidavit from a resident who can verify your address, plus one document in your name. Other offices may have different procedures. Calling ahead will save you a trip.
Can someone else bring my documents for me?
No. You must appear in person at the DHSMV office to get a driver's license. You will need to sign the process form and take the vision test in front of the clerk. A representative can help you gather documents, but you must be present to complete the transaction.