Where to book your Broward driver license appointment
You book a Broward County driver license appointment through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) online system or by phone. The online option is faster — you can see available dates and times when ready and confirm your slot in minutes. The phone line requires you to wait, but a representative can answer questions about what documents to bring.
The DHSMV website is www.flhsmv.gov. Look for the "Schedule an Appointment" button on the homepage. You'll need to select your county (Broward), choose what you're there for (renewal, replacement, or new license), and pick from available time slots at the office nearest you. Broward has multiple locations — Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and Deerfield Beach all have DHSMV offices.
If you prefer to call, the statewide DHSMV customer service line is 1-888-769-2778. Have your driver license number or ID number ready, and know which office location works best for you. Wait times on the phone vary by time of day; early morning calls typically move faster.
Key Takeaways
- Book online at www.flhsmv.gov using the "Schedule an Appointment" button, or call 1-888-769-2778 to reserve a time with a representative.
- Broward County has DHSMV offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and Deerfield Beach, and you choose your preferred location when booking.
- You must bring a valid form of ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax ID to your appointment.
- Appointment slots fill up during peak times (mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays), so booking early in the week or before 10 a.m. often shows more availability.
What documents to bring to your appointment
Florida requires specific documents at your appointment, and showing up without them will cancel your slot. Bring one valid form of ID — your current driver license, passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. You also need proof of your current Florida address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Bring your Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). You don't need to print it, but have it memorized or written down. If you're renewing and your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or legal change), bring the court order or marriage certificate that documents the change.
If you're getting a replacement license because yours was lost or stolen, bring a police report number if you filed one. The DHSMV doesn't require it, but having it speeds up the process. Bring your appointment confirmation email or the confirmation number you received when you booked — the office staff will ask for it.
How long appointments take and when to arrive
A standard driver license appointment in Broward takes 15 to 30 minutes from the time you check in. Arrive 10 minutes early to allow time for check-in. The office will take your photo, verify your documents, process your payment, and print your temporary license on the spot. You'll receive your permanent license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Peak times at Broward offices are Tuesday through Thursday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If you book during those windows, expect to wait an additional 15 to 20 minutes beyond your appointment time, even with a reservation. Early morning slots (before 10 a.m.) and Friday afternoons typically move faster. Monday mornings can be busy as people reschedule from the weekend.
If you're running late, call the office directly as soon as you know. Most Broward locations will hold your slot for 15 minutes past your appointment time. After that, you'll need to reschedule online or by phone.
Payment and fees at your appointment
Florida driver license fees vary by the type of transaction. A standard renewal costs $75.50 for an eight-year license. A replacement license (lost, stolen, or damaged) costs $25. A new license for a first-time driver costs $75.50. All fees are paid at the appointment by cash, debit card, or credit card — the office accepts all major cards.
If you're renewing early (more than six months before expiration), you may be charged a prorated fee. Ask about this when you book if your license is still valid. Some people renew early to change their address or update their photo, and the fee structure is the same as a standard renewal.
The DHSMV does not accept checks or money orders at the office. Bring cash or a card. If you're unable to pay at your appointment, you cannot complete the transaction and will need to reschedule.
What to do if your appointment slot is full
If the online system shows no available appointments for weeks, try checking again the next morning or late evening — offices release new slots throughout the day as cancellations come in. Refresh the page every few hours if you're flexible on dates. Many people cancel 24 to 48 hours before their appointment, so slots often open up mid-week.
You can also try a different Broward location. The Pompano Beach and Deerfield Beach offices sometimes have earlier availability than the Miami and Fort Lauderdale locations, even though they serve the same county. If you're willing to travel, checking all four offices may reveal an opening sooner.
If you need an appointment urgently and the system is fully booked, call 1-888-769-2778. Representatives sometimes have access to cancellation slots that don't show online, or they can place you on a waitlist. Explain your situation — if you have a court date or a time-sensitive reason, mention it.
Rescheduling or canceling your appointment
Cancel or reschedule your appointment online at www.flhsmv.gov at least 24 hours before your scheduled time. Log in with your driver license number and the confirmation number from your booking email. You can change the date, time, or location without penalty. If you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment, you'll need to call 1-888-769-2778 to reschedule.
If you miss your appointment without canceling, you lose that slot and must book a new one. There is no fee for missing an appointment, but you'll have to wait for the next available opening. If you're going to be late, call the office directly — the number is listed on your confirmation email — and ask if they can hold your slot.
What happens after your appointment
You'll receive a temporary paper license at the end of your appointment that's valid when ready for driving. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The DHSMV mails licenses to the address you provided at your appointment, so make sure it's correct before you leave the office.
If your permanent license doesn't arrive within 10 business days, call 1-888-769-2778 with your confirmation number and appointment date. The DHSMV can track your license and resend it if it was lost in the mail. Do not schedule a replacement appointment until you've confirmed with customer service that the original was not delivered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book an appointment for someone else?
No. The person whose license is being renewed or replaced must book the appointment themselves using their own information. If someone is unable to use the online system, a family member can call 1-888-769-2778 on their behalf, but the person must be present at the appointment with valid ID.
What if I don't have proof of residency?
You cannot complete your appointment without it. Proof of residency must be dated within 60 days and show your name and current Florida address. If you've recently moved, a utility bill in your name, a lease signed by you, or a bank statement works. Contact the DHSMV before your appointment if you're unsure whether your document qualifies.
Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
Broward DHSMV offices operate by appointment only. Walk-ins are not accepted. You must book a time slot online or by phone before you arrive. The only exception is if you're renewing a license that expired more than six months ago — some offices allow walk-ins for expired renewals, but calling ahead is safer.
What if my appointment is for a violation-related issue like a license suspension?
A standard driver license appointment does not handle suspensions or reinstatement. If your license is suspended due to a violation, unpaid fines, or a court order, you must contact the DHSMV Suspension and Revocation Bureau at 1-888-769-2778 or visit www.flhsmv.gov/suspensionreinstatement. They'll tell you what steps you need to take before you can renew or replace your license.
Can I renew my license by mail instead of going to an office?
Florida allows mail renewal for some drivers, but only if your license is still valid and you meet specific requirements. You cannot renew by mail if your address has changed, your name has changed, or you need a new photo. Check www.flhsmv.gov for mail renewal may be able to access, or ask when you call to book your appointment.