You can order a replacement Florida driver's license through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) website without visiting an office
Florida lets you request a replacement license online if your license was lost or stolen and you have a valid Social Security number and a Florida address on file. The process takes about 10 minutes on the DHSMV website, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit a driver's license office, take a new photo, or retake any tests.
The online replacement works only if your current license is still valid (not expired) or expired less than six months ago. If your license expired more than six months ago, you will need to renew it instead of replacing it, which requires an office visit. The replacement fee is $25, paid by debit or credit card during the online process.
Key Takeaways
- Go to the DHSMV website, select "Replace Lost/Stolen License," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number.
- You must have a valid Florida address on file with DHSMV; if you moved recently, update your address before starting the replacement.
- The replacement fee of $25 is charged to your debit or credit card at the time you submit your request.
- Your replacement license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you do not receive a temporary license or receipt to use while you wait.
- If your license expired more than six months ago, you cannot use the online replacement and must visit a driver's license office to renew.
Step 1: Gather your information before you start
Have your current driver's license number ready, or know your date of birth and Social Security number. You will also need a debit or credit card to pay the $25 replacement fee. If you do not have your license number memorized, you may be able to look it up on a previous insurance card, vehicle registration, or bank statement that lists it.
Check that your address on file with DHSMV is current. If you moved within the last few months and have not updated your address with the motor vehicles office, do that first through the DHSMV website or by phone at 1-844-DL-RENEW (1-844-357-3639). The replacement license will be mailed to the address DHSMV has on record, so if it is wrong, your new license will go to the old address.
Step 2: Go to the DHSMV website and select the replacement option
Open a web browser and go to the official DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov. Look for the section labeled "Driver Licenses" or "Online Services." Click on "Replace Lost/Stolen License" or a similar option — the exact wording changes occasionally, but it will be grouped with other driver's license services.
You may see a choice between "Lost License" and "Stolen License." Choose "Lost License" unless your license was actually stolen and you have filed a police report. If you choose "Stolen License," DHSMV may ask for a police report number, so only select that option if you have one.
Step 3: Enter your personal information and verify your identity
The website will ask for your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number. Enter these exactly as they appear on your license or in DHSMV records. The system cross-checks this information against the DHSMV database to confirm you are who you say you are.
If the system cannot find a match, you will see an error message. This usually means your information does not match what DHSMV has on file — for example, if you recently changed your name and have not updated it with DHSMV, or if you entered a digit wrong. If this happens, call 1-844-DL-RENEW to verify your information over the phone before trying again online.
Step 4: Review the replacement details and pay the fee
The website will show you the address where your replacement license will be mailed. Confirm this is correct — if it is not, stop and update your address with DHSMV before continuing. You will also see the $25 fee and be asked to enter your debit or credit card information.
After you submit your payment, you will receive a confirmation number on the screen. Write this down or take a screenshot. DHSMV will also send a confirmation email to the email address on file with your license. Keep both for your records.
What happens after you submit your request
DHSMV processes online replacement requests within one business day. Your replacement license is then printed and mailed to your address on file. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the time DHSMV mails it, though it can occasionally take longer depending on your location and mail volume.
You do not receive a temporary license, a receipt to carry, or any document to show law enforcement if you are stopped while waiting. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you have two options: carry a copy of your confirmation email on your phone, or visit a driver's license office in person to request a temporary license (which costs extra and requires an office visit).
When you cannot use the online replacement
The online replacement is not available if your license has been expired for more than six months. In that case, you are renewing rather than replacing, and renewal requires an office visit, a new photo, and a vision test. You also cannot use online replacement if your license was suspended or revoked — you will need to contact DHSMV directly to understand what steps are required before you can get a new license.
If you are not a Florida resident but have a Florida license (for example, you moved out of state), you may not be able to use the online system. Call 1-844-DL-RENEW to ask whether your situation qualifies for online replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the online replacement if my license is expired?
Yes, if it expired less than six months ago. If it expired more than six months ago, you must visit a driver's license office to renew instead. The online system will tell you whether your license qualifies when you enter your information.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with wrong information?
Contact DHSMV at 1-844-DL-RENEW with your confirmation number. They can issue a corrected replacement at no additional cost if the error was made by DHSMV. If the license is damaged in the mail, DHSMV will usually replace it for free if you report it within a reasonable time.
Do I need to report my lost license to police before ordering a replacement online?
No, a police report is not required for the online replacement. You only need one if you believe your license was stolen and you want to protect yourself from identity theft. If you file a police report, you can note the loss in that report, but it is not necessary to complete the online replacement.
Can someone else order a replacement license for me?
No, the online system requires you to enter your personal information and verify your identity yourself. If you cannot complete the process online, visit a driver's license office in person or call 1-844-DL-RENEW to request a replacement by phone.
What if I move before my replacement license arrives?
Contact DHSMV with your confirmation number and let them know your new address. They may be able to redirect your license to the new address, or they may issue a new one. Call 1-844-DL-RENEW as soon as you know you are moving to avoid your license being mailed to an address you no longer use.