How to order a replacement Florida driver's license
You can order a replacement Florida driver's license through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) by mail, online, or in person at a driver license office. The online method is fastest — you can request a replacement in minutes through the DHSMV website if your license was lost or stolen and you meet basic requirements. By mail, you send a completed form and payment to the address listed on the DHSMV site, which takes one to two weeks. In person, you visit a local driver license office with your documents and payment, and typically receive your replacement within days.
The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the license and whether you want to avoid a trip to an office. Online and mail orders cost the same. In-person replacement may cost more if you need a rush option, but gives you when ready proof of your process and lets you ask questions about your specific situation.
Key Takeaways
- The DHSMV online portal is the fastest route for most people — you can request a replacement in minutes if your license was lost or stolen.
- You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method (credit or debit card) to order online.
- Mail orders require form HSMV 71009 (process for Duplicate Driver License), a check or money order, and take one to two weeks to arrive.
- In-person replacement at a driver license office requires a government-issued ID, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency.
- Standard replacement licenses cost the same whether ordered online, by mail, or in person; rush options are only available in-person at some offices.
Ordering online through the DHSMV website
The DHSMV website (flhsmv.gov) has a dedicated section for duplicate license requests. You enter your driver license number, date of birth, and Social Security number to verify your identity. The system checks whether your license is may be able to access for replacement — most lost or stolen licenses are, but suspended or revoked licenses cannot be replaced through this method.
Once verified, you choose standard or rush delivery (if available in your county) and pay by credit or debit card. Standard delivery takes five to seven business days. The DHSMV sends a confirmation email with a reference number. You do not receive a temporary license online, so if you need to drive before the replacement arrives, you will need to visit an office in person for a temporary document.
Online ordering works best if you have your driver license number handy. If you do not remember it, you can look it up on the DHSMV website using your name and date of birth, or call the DHSMV customer service line at 850-617-2000.
Ordering by mail with form HSMV 71009
To order by mail, read or request form HSMV 71009 (process for Duplicate Driver License) from the DHSMV website. Fill in your name, date of birth, driver license number, and the reason for replacement (lost or stolen). Sign and date the form.
Mail the completed form with a check or money order to the address listed on the form — typically the DHSMV headquarters in Tallahassee, though some counties have regional processing centers. Include payment for the replacement license fee, which varies slightly by license type but is generally under $50 for a standard license. Do not send cash.
Processing takes one to two weeks after the DHSMV receives your form. You will not receive a confirmation email or temporary license by mail. If you need proof that you have requested a replacement, keep a copy of the form and your cancelled check or money order receipt.
Replacing your license in person at a driver license office
Visit any Florida driver license office with your documents and payment. Bring a government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of Florida residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days).
Tell the clerk you need a duplicate license due to loss or theft. They will verify your information, take a new photo, and process your payment. Standard replacement takes five to seven business days by mail. Some offices offer rush service for an additional fee, which produces a license in one to three business days.
If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, ask the clerk for a temporary license. Most offices issue a paper temporary that is valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent replacement to arrive by mail.
What documents and information you need
For any replacement method, have your driver license number ready. If you do not have it, the DHSMV can look it up using your name and date of birth. You will also need your Social Security number and date of birth to verify your identity.
For in-person replacement, bring originals or certified copies of your government-issued photo ID, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency. The DHSMV does not accept photocopies of these documents. Utility bills, lease agreements, and bank statements must show your current name and address and be dated within 90 days.
Payment is required at the time of request. Online and mail orders accept credit, debit card, or check. In-person offices accept cash, check, credit card, and debit card. Keep your confirmation number or receipt for your records.
Costs and processing times by method
| Method | Cost | Processing Time | Temporary License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Standard fee (under $50) | 5–7 business days | No |
| Standard fee (under $50) | 1–2 weeks | No | |
| In-person (standard) | Standard fee (under $50) | 5–7 business days | Yes (30 days) |
| In-person (rush) | Standard fee + rush surcharge | 1–3 business days | Yes (30 days) |
The exact fee depends on your license type and whether you add endorsements. Check the DHSMV website or call 850-617-2000 for the current fee in your county. Rush service is not available at all offices, so call ahead if speed is important.
What to do if your replacement does not arrive
If your license does not arrive within the stated timeframe, contact the DHSMV with your confirmation number or reference number. Have your name, date of birth, and driver license number ready. The DHSMV can check the status of your order and tell you whether it has been mailed or if there is a problem with your process.
If your replacement was lost in the mail, the DHSMV can reissue it or issue a new one. You may be charged a second fee, depending on the circumstances. If your process was rejected, the DHSMV will explain why — common reasons include a mismatch in your identity information or a flag on your driving record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a temporary license if I order online or by mail?
No. Temporary licenses are only issued in person at a driver license office. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you must visit an office and request a temporary document at that time. The temporary is valid for 30 days.
What if my name has changed since my original license was issued?
You will need to bring proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your other documents if you replace your license in person. For online or mail orders, contact the DHSMV before submitting your request to confirm the process for your situation.
Can I order a replacement if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. The DHSMV will not issue a duplicate license if your driving privileges are suspended or revoked. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first. Contact the DHSMV to find out what steps are required to restore your privileges.
How much does a replacement license cost?
Standard replacement licenses cost under $50, though the exact amount varies by license type and county. Rush service, available only in person at some offices, adds a surcharge. Check the DHSMV website or call 850-617-2000 for the current fee.
What if I moved to Florida after my license was lost?
If your lost license was from another state, you cannot order a replacement from Florida. You must contact the state that issued the original license. Once you have a valid ID, you can then explore for a Florida driver license through the standard process.