Documents and information you must bring to renew
To renew your Florida driver's license, you need to bring your current license or a valid ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current Florida address. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) requires these three categories of documents before you can complete the renewal process in person or by mail.
Your current Florida driver's license serves as your primary identification. If you no longer have it — because it was lost, stolen, or expired more than six years ago — you'll need to bring a different valid ID instead, such as a U.S. passport, military ID, or state ID from another state. A photo is required, so the ID must include your photograph.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you don't have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration. DHSMV will not accept a photocopy of your Social Security card — it must be the original document.
For proof of your current Florida address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement, insurance bill, or vehicle registration also works if it shows your current address.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring your current Florida driver's license or another valid photo ID, proof of your Social Security number (original document, not a copy), and proof of your current Florida address dated within the last 60 days.
- If your license expired more than six years ago, you cannot renew by mail and must renew in person at a DHSMV office, and you may be required to retake the written and vision tests.
- The renewal fee is $75 for a four-year license or $125 for an eight-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
- You can renew online through the DHSMV website if your license is not expired and you meet other may be able to access requirements, which means you won't need to visit an office or gather physical documents.
When you can renew online instead of in person
Florida allows you to renew online if your current license is not expired, you have no medical conditions or restrictions that have changed, and you have not changed your name since your last renewal. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs $75 for a four-year license. You'll receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
To renew online, visit the DHSMV website, enter your driver's license number and date of birth, and follow the payment instructions. You will not need to gather documents or visit an office. However, if your license has already expired, you cannot use the online process — you must renew in person at a DHSMV office.
In-person renewal at a DHSMV office
If you cannot renew online, you can renew in person at any DHSMV office in Florida. Bring your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
DHSMV offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations offering extended hours. You do not need an appointment for a standard renewal, but you can schedule one online to reduce your wait time. Find your nearest office and check its hours on the DHSMV website.
When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. A staff member will review your documents, take a new photograph, and process your payment. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license that you can use while you wait for your permanent card.
Renewing by mail if you meet the requirements
You can renew by mail only if your current license is not expired and you have not changed your name. Mail renewal takes longer than in-person or online renewal — typically 4 to 6 weeks — so plan ahead if you need your license by a specific date.
To renew by mail, read the process for Florida Driver License or ID Card (Form HSMV 82053) from the DHSMV website. Complete the form, sign it, and mail it along with your current license, proof of Social Security number, proof of your current address, and a check or money order for $75 (four-year license) or $125 (eight-year license). Mail everything to the address listed on the form.
Do not send cash by mail. DHSMV will not process your renewal if your documents are incomplete or illegible. Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.
What happens if your license has been expired for more than six years
If your Florida driver's license expired more than six years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This means you will need to visit a DHSMV office in person, pass a vision test, and pass the written knowledge test. You will also need to provide proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current Florida address, and proof of your identity.
The written test covers Florida traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can study using the Florida Driver's Handbook, which is available free on the DHSMV website. The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
The fee for a new license is the same as renewal: $75 for a four-year license or $125 for an eight-year license. The entire process takes longer than a standard renewal because of the testing requirement.
Fees and payment methods
A four-year Florida driver's license costs $75. An eight-year license costs $125. These are the standard fees as of the most recent update, though fees can change. Check the DHSMV website to confirm the current fee before you renew.
You can pay by cash (in person only), check, money order (by mail), debit card, or credit card. If you renew online, you can only pay by debit or credit card. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order — do not send cash.
How long your new license takes to arrive
If you renew in person or online, your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office (if you renewed in person) or by mail (if you renewed online) that you can use when ready while you wait for your permanent card.
If you renew by mail, allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing and delivery. During this time, you can continue to use your current license as long as it has not expired. If your current license has already expired, you should renew in person or online instead so you receive a temporary license right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Florida license if I moved out of state?
No. You must have a current Florida address to renew a Florida driver's license. If you have moved to another state, you should explore for a driver's license in your new state instead. You can no longer legally drive using a Florida license once you become a resident of another state.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
You cannot renew online or by mail if your name has changed. You must renew in person at a DHSMV office and bring a document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. DHSMV will issue a new license with your updated name.
Do I need to retake the vision test when I renew?
You will take a vision test at a DHSMV office during in-person renewal. If you renew online or by mail, you will not take a vision test. If you have vision problems or wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you to your in-person appointment.
What if I lost my Social Security card?
You can bring a W-2 form, 1099 form, tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration instead of your Social Security card. DHSMV will not accept a photocopy of your card — the document must be an original. Contact the Social Security Administration if you need a replacement card or letter.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No. You must renew your license yourself. You cannot authorize another person to renew it on your behalf. However, if you have a disability or medical condition that makes it difficult to visit an office, contact your local DHSMV office to ask about accommodations or alternative options.