Bring These Documents to the DMV

Florida requires you to bring specific documents when you renew your driver's license in person. You will need proof of identity, proof of Florida residency, and your current driver's license. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) will not process your renewal without these three categories of documents, so check what you have before you go to the office.

You do not need to bring originals of every document — copies are acceptable for most items. However, some documents must be originals or certified copies. The list below shows you exactly what counts for each category and which form of the document works.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring your current Florida driver's license, a document proving your identity, and a document proving you live in Florida.
  • Acceptable identity documents include a passport, birth certificate, military ID, or state ID card — originals or certified copies only.
  • For proof of residency, utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements all work if they show your current name and address.
  • If your name has changed since your last license, bring the original or certified copy of the document that changed it — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, though you can provide the number verbally if you cannot locate the card.

Proof of Identity Documents That Work

Florida accepts a limited list of documents as proof of identity. Your document must be an original or a certified copy — photocopies do not count. A U.S. passport (valid or expired within the last five years) is the strongest option because it serves as both identity and citizenship proof. A certified birth certificate from the state where you were born also works, though you will need to order it from the vital records office if you do not have it on hand.

Other acceptable identity documents include a military ID card (current or expired within the last five years), a state ID card from another state, a passport card, or a Trusted Traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST). If you were born outside the United States, a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (green card) works. Do not bring a photocopy of any of these — the DHSMV staff will examine the original document.

Proof of Residency: What Shows Your Current Address

You need a document showing your current name and current Florida address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days, or it must be a lease or mortgage document with no expiration date. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the fastest option if you have a recent one. A lease agreement or mortgage statement works even if it is older, as long as it shows your current address.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and insurance documents (auto, home, or renter's) also count as proof of residency. Government mail — such as a tax return, voter registration card, or property tax notice — works if it is dated within the last 60 days. If you live with someone else and the document is in their name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the document, plus that person's ID, confirming you live there.

Social Security Number and Tax Information

You must provide your Social Security number when you renew. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, but you can also provide the number verbally to the DHSMV staff member — you do not have to show the card. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation from the Social Security Administration explaining why.

You will also need to provide your federal tax identification number if you have one. For most people, this is the same as your Social Security number. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) documentation instead.

Name Change Documents

If your name has changed since your last driver's license was issued, bring the original or certified copy of the document that changed it. A marriage certificate is required if you took your spouse's name. A divorce decree or dissolution of marriage document is required if you changed your name back after a divorce. A court order changing your name is required if you legally changed your name through the court system.

These documents must be originals or certified copies from the court or the agency that issued them. A photocopy will not be accepted. If you do not have the original, contact the court clerk's office or the vital records office in the county where the document was issued and request a certified copy — this usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $5 and $25.

What to Bring If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

If you are a permanent resident or have a visa, bring your Permanent Resident Card (green card) or your passport with a valid visa. If you are in the process of becoming a citizen, bring your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or your Advance Parole document. These documents serve as both identity and proof of legal presence in Florida.

If you are a temporary resident with a visa, your passport with the visa stamp is sufficient. Bring your Social Security card or ITIN documentation as described above. If your visa or immigration status has changed since your last license, bring documentation of the change.

Documents You Do Not Need to Bring

You do not need to bring your old license renewal notice or any paperwork from the DHSMV. You do not need to bring proof of insurance, vehicle registration, or any documents related to your vehicle. You do not need to bring a completed process form — the DHSMV staff will complete the process with you at the office.

If you are renewing by mail or online (if you are may be able to access), the document requirements are different and fewer. Check the DHSMV website or call your local office before you go to confirm whether you can renew without visiting in person, because mail and online renewals have stricter may be able to access rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a photo of my documents instead of the originals?

No. The DHSMV staff must see the original documents or certified copies. Photographs, photocopies, and scans are not accepted. The only exception is your Social Security number, which you can provide verbally.

What if my birth certificate is from another country?

A foreign birth certificate works as proof of identity if it is an original or certified copy. You will also need to bring your passport or immigration documents showing your legal status in the United States. The DHSMV may ask you to provide an English translation if the certificate is in another language.

My utility bill is in my roommate's name. Can I still use it?

Yes, but you must bring a signed letter from your roommate confirming you live at that address, plus your roommate's ID. The DHSMV staff will keep the letter in your file. Make sure the letter includes the address and is signed and dated.

Do I need to bring my current license if it is expired?

Yes, bring your expired license along with the other documents. An expired license still counts as proof of identity for renewal purposes. If you have lost your license, bring one of the other identity documents from the list instead.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must provide either a Social Security number or documentation from the Social Security Administration explaining why you do not have one. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your ITIN documentation instead. Call your local DHSMV office before you go to confirm what documentation they will accept in your situation.