Bring these documents when you renew in person

Florida requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current driver's license or ID card to renew in person. The exact documents depend on whether you're renewing at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office or a tax collector's office — both can process renewals, and both accept the same document types.

You'll need one document from the identity list and one from the residency list below. Your current Florida driver's license counts as your proof of identity, so if you bring it, you only need to add a residency document. If your license is expired or lost, bring a different identity document instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Your current Florida driver's license serves as proof of identity, so you may only need to bring one additional document proving where you live.
  • If your license is expired or missing, bring a passport, birth certificate, or military ID as your identity document instead.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days of your visit.
  • You can renew at any DMV office or tax collector's office in Florida, and both accept the same documents.
  • Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized, since you'll need it to complete the renewal form.

Documents that prove your identity

If your current Florida driver's license is valid or only recently expired, bring it — it counts as your identity document. If your license is lost, stolen, or expired more than a few years ago, bring one of these instead:

  • U.S. passport or passport card
  • Birth certificate (original or certified copy)
  • Military ID or military discharge papers (DD-214)
  • Permanent resident card (green card)
  • Employment authorization document (EAD)
  • Visa with an I-94 arrival/departure record
  • Tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe

Documents must be original or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an English translation certified by a translator.

Documents that prove where you live

You need one document showing your current Florida address. It must be dated within 90 days before your visit to the DMV or tax collector's office. Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank or credit card statements all work. The document must show your name and your street address — a PO box alone is not enough.

If you've recently moved and don't have a document dated within the last 90 days, bring two documents that are older. You can also bring a notarized affidavit of residency signed by someone else who lives at your address, along with their ID.

Documents accepted for proof of residency include:

  • Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill
  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Insurance policy or insurance bill
  • Homeowners association (HOA) bill
  • Affidavit of residency notarized by a notary public

What to bring if you're renewing by mail

Florida allows some drivers to renew by mail instead of visiting an office in person. If you're renewing by mail, you don't need to bring documents to an office — instead, you mail them with your renewal form. The documents required are the same: proof of identity and proof of residency, both originals or certified copies.

Mail renewal is available only if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have no medical conditions that require a vision test, and you're not changing your name or address. The DMV will send you a renewal notice in the mail if you're may be able to access. If you receive one, follow the instructions on the form to mail in your documents and payment.

Your Social Security number and signature

You'll need your Social Security number to complete the renewal. Have it memorized or bring a document showing it — a Social Security card, tax return, or W-2 form works. You'll also sign the renewal form in front of the DMV employee or notary, so bring a pen.

If you don't have a Social Security number, tell the DMV employee when you arrive. Florida can issue a driver's license without one, but the process takes longer and requires additional documents.

What happens after you submit your documents

Once the DMV or tax collector's office accepts your documents, they'll take a new photo and process your renewal on the spot. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to your address. The plastic card usually arrives within two to three weeks.

If the DMV finds a problem with your documents — for example, a residency document that's too old or a name mismatch — they'll tell you before you leave. Bring extra documents with you just in case, so you can resolve the issue the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew if my current license is expired?

Yes. An expired Florida driver's license still counts as proof of identity for renewal purposes. Bring it along with proof of residency, and you can renew at any DMV office or tax collector's office.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring your identity document, residency document, and a certified copy of the document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot renew by mail if your name has changed; you must visit an office in person.

Do I need an original document or can I bring a photocopy?

The DMV requires original documents or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted. A certified copy is a photocopy stamped and signed by the issuing agency or a notary public.

What if I don't have a current utility bill or lease?

Bring two documents showing your address that are older than 90 days, or bring a notarized affidavit of residency signed by someone else who lives at your address along with their ID. You can also ask your bank or insurance company to issue a statement dated within the last 90 days.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DMV or tax collector's office to renew your driver's license. The employee will take a new photo and you'll sign the renewal form in front of them.