How to update your Florida driver's license
You can update your Florida driver's license through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) in three ways: online through the DHSMV website, by mail, or in person at a driver license office. The method you use depends on what information you're changing. Address changes and name changes after marriage can be done online or by mail. Changes that require a new photo — such as a significant appearance change or correcting your date of birth — require an in-person visit to a driver license office.
The fastest route for most changes is the online system, which processes updates within a few business days. Mail takes two to three weeks. In-person visits at a driver license office typically take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is that day.
Key Takeaways
- Address and name changes can be completed online through the DHSMV website without visiting an office or paying a fee.
- Changes requiring a new photo must be done in person at a driver license office and may involve a fee depending on the type of change.
- The DHSMV online system processes updates within a few business days, while mail takes two to three weeks.
- You will need your current driver's license number, Social Security number, and proof of the change (such as a marriage certificate or utility bill) depending on what you are updating.
Updating your address online
To change your address online, visit the DHSMV website and select the address change option. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and then ask for your new address.
Once you submit the change, you do not need to provide proof of residency for an online address update. The DHSMV processes the change within a few business days, and your updated license will be mailed to your new address. There is no fee for changing your address online.
Updating your name after marriage or legal change
If you changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you can update it online or by mail. For an online update, go to the DHSMV website and follow the name change process. You will be asked to upload a photo of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The system will verify the document and process your change within a few business days.
If you prefer to mail your documents, send a completed process (Form HSMV 82053) along with a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order to the DHSMV address listed on their website. Include a copy of your current driver's license. Processing by mail takes two to three weeks. There is no fee for a name change.
In-person updates at a driver license office
Some changes require you to visit a driver license office in person. These include correcting your date of birth, updating your eye color or hair color if it has changed significantly, adding or removing organ donor status, or obtaining a new photo for any reason. You can also renew your license in person if it is expiring soon.
To find the driver license office nearest you, use the DHSMV office locator on their website. Most offices operate Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and any documents related to the change you are making. If you are correcting your date of birth, bring a birth certificate or passport.
Fees for in-person updates vary depending on what you are changing. A replacement license costs around $20. A renewal with a new photo costs the standard renewal fee. Check the DHSMV website or call your local office before you visit to confirm the current fee and whether you need an appointment.
Updating by mail
You can mail in changes for your address or name without visiting an office. For an address change, complete Form HSMV 82053 and mail it with a copy of your current driver's license and proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement) to the DHSMV. For a name change, include the same form along with a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Mail your documents to the address listed on the DHSMV website. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DHSMV receives your envelope. Your updated license will be mailed to the address you provided. There is no fee for address or name changes by mail.
What documents you need for each type of change
| Type of Change | Online | By Mail | In Person | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Address | Driver's license number, SSN last 4, date of birth | Form HSMV 82053, copy of license, proof of address | Current license, proof of address | None |
| Name (marriage/divorce) | Driver's license number, SSN last 4, date of birth, photo of certificate | Form HSMV 82053, copy of license, certified certificate | Current license, certified certificate | None |
| Date of birth correction | Not available | Not available | Current license, birth certificate or passport | Around $20 |
| Photo update (appearance change) | Not available | Not available | Current license, proof of residency | Around $20 |
| Organ donor status | Not available | Not available | Current license | None |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my updated license after I submit changes online?
The DHSMV processes online changes within a few business days. Your updated license will then be mailed to your address, which typically takes an additional five to seven business days. In total, expect to receive your new license within two weeks of submitting your change online.
Do I need an appointment to visit a driver license office?
Some driver license offices require appointments, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the DHSMV website or call your local office before you visit to find out whether an appointment is needed. If appointments are required, you can usually book one online through the DHSMV website.
What counts as proof of residency for an address change?
Proof of residency includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your new address. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill is the most commonly accepted form.
Can I update my license if it is expired?
Yes, you can update your address or name on an expired license through the online system or by mail. If you need to renew your license at the same time, you can do that in person at a driver license office. Bring your expired license along with proof of residency and any documents related to the change you are making.
Is there a fee to change my name or address?
No. Name changes and address changes are free whether you do them online, by mail, or in person. You only pay a fee if you are obtaining a replacement license or renewing your license with a new photo at the same time.