Where the original issue date appears on your card

The original issue date on a Florida driver's license is printed on the front of the card, in the lower left area. It shows when you first received that particular license — not when you were born or when your current license expires. The date appears as a six-digit number in the format MM/DD/YYYY (for example, 03/15/2019).

If you are holding a physical Florida license, look at the front left side, below your photograph and personal information. The label reads "Iss Date" or "Issue Date" next to the number. On older licenses issued before 2013, the placement and format may differ slightly, but the information is still there.

If you cannot locate it on your card or your license is damaged, you can also find this date through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) website or by calling their customer service line at 850-617-2000.

Key Takeaways

  • The original issue date is printed on the front of your Florida driver's license in the lower left area, labeled "Iss Date" or "Issue Date."
  • The date shows when you first received that specific license card, not your birth date or expiration date.
  • Older Florida licenses issued before 2013 may have the date in a different location or format, but the information is still present on the card.
  • If you cannot read the date on your card, you can contact the DHSMV at 850-617-2000 or visit their website to retrieve this information.

Why you might need to know your original issue date

Knowing your original issue date matters for several reasons. Some employers, financial institutions, or government agencies ask for it as part of identity verification. It can also help you track how long you have held your current license or determine whether you are may be able to access for certain license renewal options that depend on how many years have passed since issuance.

If you are renewing your license or updating your address, having this date on hand can speed up the process. It is also useful if you need to report your license as lost or stolen, since the date helps DHSMV locate your record quickly.

Reading the format on newer Florida licenses

Florida licenses issued from 2013 onward use a standardized format that makes the original issue date straightforward to find. The front of the card displays your name, address, photograph, and several dates. The "Iss Date" is distinct from your "Exp Date" (expiration date), which appears elsewhere on the card. Make sure you are reading the correct field — the expiration date tells you when your license expires, while the issue date tells you when you received it.

The original issue date remains the same even if you renew your license early or update your information. It always refers to when you first got that particular card, not when you last renewed it.

Finding the date on older or damaged licenses

If your Florida license was issued before 2013, the layout is different from current cards. The original issue date may appear in a different location or use a different label. Some older licenses show it as "Issued" rather than "Iss Date." If the card is worn, faded, or damaged, the date may be hard to read.

In these cases, contacting DHSMV directly is your best option. You can call 850-617-2000 during business hours, or visit a local DHSMV office in person with your license and another form of identification. Staff can look up your record and provide the original issue date.

Accessing your license information online

The DHSMV website allows you to view some information about your license without visiting an office. You can create an account on the DHSMV portal to check your license status and details. However, the online system may not display every piece of information that appears on your physical card, so calling or visiting in person is sometimes necessary if you need the original issue date and cannot read it on your card.

If you have lost your license or it has been stolen, you can report it through the DHSMV website or by phone. When you report it, have your original issue date ready if possible, as it helps DHSMV locate your record faster.

What to do if you cannot find the date

If you have looked at your license and still cannot locate the original issue date, do not assume the information is missing. Check the front of the card again, paying close attention to the lower left section. Use good lighting and, if needed, a magnifying glass to read small text.

If the card is too damaged or faded to read, or if you have lost your license, contact DHSMV at 850-617-2000. Have your name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready when you call. You can also visit any DHSMV office in Florida with a valid form of identification, and staff will provide the information you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the original issue date the same as my expiration date?

No. The original issue date shows when you received that license card. The expiration date shows when your license stops being valid and you must renew it. These are two different dates on your card.

Does the original issue date change when I renew my license?

No. When you renew your license, you receive a new card with a new expiration date, but the original issue date refers to when you first got that particular card and does not change.

Can I find my original issue date without my physical license?

Yes. Call the DHSMV at 850-617-2000 with your name, date of birth, and Social Security number, and they can tell you the original issue date. You can also visit a local DHSMV office in person with another form of identification.

Why is the original issue date in a different place on my old license?

Florida changed its license design in 2013. Older licenses have a different layout, so the issue date may appear in a different location or use different labeling. If you cannot find it, DHSMV can look it up for you.