Bring proof of your new address and your current ID

To change your address on a Florida driver license, you need to bring two things to a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office: your current driver license and a document that proves your new address. You do not need to take a new photo or pass a test — the DHSMV treats an address change as a quick update, not a license renewal.

The process takes about 15 minutes at the counter. You fill out a form, show your documents, pay a fee (currently $7.50 for a replacement license with your new address), and leave with a temporary paper license while your new plastic card arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring your current Florida driver license and one document proving your new address to any DHSMV office.
  • Acceptable address-proof documents include utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements — all must show your name and current address.
  • The document proving your address must be dated within the last 60 days and show your full name exactly as it appears on your license.
  • You will pay $7.50 for a replacement license with your new address and receive a temporary paper license when ready.
  • Your new plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can drive legally with the temporary paper version until it arrives.

Documents that prove your new address

The DHSMV accepts several types of documents as proof of your new address. The document must show your name and your new address, be dated within the last 60 days, and be an original or certified copy — not a photo or printout you made yourself.

Common documents that work include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet in your name), a lease agreement or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowner's insurance policy, a bank or credit card statement, or a government check (like Social Security or unemployment). Some people also bring a letter from their landlord or property manager on official letterhead, though this is less common and the DHSMV may ask for a second document if the letter alone seems unclear.

The name on the document must match your driver license exactly. If you recently married or changed your name, bring both your old license and a document showing the name change (like a marriage certificate or court order) along with your address proof.

What does not work as address proof

The DHSMV will not accept documents that are photocopies, screenshots, or printed from a website — even if they show your name and address. They also will not accept documents older than 60 days, documents that do not show your full name, or documents addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant."

A lease agreement works, but only if it is signed and shows your name and the address. A text message from your landlord or an email confirmation does not count. If you just moved and have not yet received a utility bill or bank statement in your name at the new address, ask your utility company or bank for a printed statement they can mail or give you, or bring a signed lease plus one other document with your old address to show you are in transition.

Where to go and what to bring

Visit any DHSMV office in Florida. You can find the nearest one by searching "DHSMV office near me" or going to the Florida DHSMV website and using their office locator. Some offices are busier than others — early morning or mid-week visits usually have shorter waits than Friday afternoons or the first week of the month.

Bring your current driver license, your address-proof document, and your Social Security number (you will need to provide it, though you do not need to bring a card). If you are changing your name at the same time, bring the document proving the name change as well. Bring cash or a debit card — most DHSMV offices accept both, though a few smaller locations may only take cash.

What happens after you pay

Once you hand over your documents and pay the $7.50 fee, the DHSMV staff will give you a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and lasts until your new plastic license arrives. You can use it at traffic stops, to rent a car, or anywhere else you would use your regular license.

Your new plastic license with your updated address will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. The DHSMV mails it to the address you provided, so make sure the address you give them is correct. If you move again before the new license arrives, you can update your address a second time, but you will pay another $7.50 fee.

If you cannot go in person

Florida does not allow you to change your address by mail or online. You must visit a DHSMV office in person and bring your documents. If you are unable to visit an office yourself, someone else can go on your behalf if they bring a notarized power of attorney form, your current license, and the address-proof document. The DHSMV website has a template for the power of attorney form.

If you are homebound or have a medical condition that makes travel difficult, contact your local DHSMV office directly to ask about options. Some offices have accommodations or may be able to direct you to a solution, though this varies by location.

Address changes and license renewal

Changing your address does not reset your license expiration date. Your new license will still expire on the same date as your old one. If your license is expiring soon, you may want to renew it at the same time you change your address — this costs more but means you only make one trip to the DHSMV office.

Ask the staff at the counter whether it makes sense to do both at once based on your expiration date. They can tell you the total cost and help you decide whether to handle both transactions together or separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online or by phone?

No. Florida requires you to change your driver license address in person at a DHSMV office. You cannot do it online, by mail, or by phone. You must bring your current license and address-proof document to an office location.

What if my address-proof document has my old name on it?

If you recently changed your name and your utility bill or lease still shows your old name, bring both the address-proof document and a separate document proving your name change (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree). The DHSMV staff will review both and update your license accordingly.

Does the address on my license have to match my voter registration or car registration?

No. Your driver license address, voter registration address, and vehicle registration address can all be different. Changing your driver license address does not automatically change these other records. You will need to update them separately through the appropriate agencies if you want them to match.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

Bring your signed lease agreement plus one other document showing your old address, such as a bank statement or credit card statement. Explain to the DHSMV staff that you recently moved. They may accept this combination, though policies can vary by office — calling ahead to ask is a good idea if you are unsure.

Can someone else change my address for me?

Yes, if you give them a notarized power of attorney form, your current license, and the address-proof document. The person going on your behalf does not need to be a family member. The DHSMV website has a template for the power of attorney form you can take to a notary.