How to Replace Your Florida Driver's License

Where to go and what to bring

You can replace your Florida driver's license at any Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office. Walk in during business hours — no appointment needed. Bring your current license if you still have it, your Social Security number, and proof of your current Florida address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days works). If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report number if you have one; if not, you can still proceed without it.

If you cannot visit an office in person, you can order a replacement online through the DHSMV website. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs less than an in-person replacement. You will need your license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. The new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

You can replace your license in person at any DHSMV office without an appointment, or order online through the DHSMV website if you prefer to stay home.
In-person replacement takes about 15 minutes and you leave with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your new card is printed.
Online replacement costs less but takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail, and you will not have a valid license during that time.
Bring your current license, Social Security number, and proof of your Florida address; a police report is helpful if your license was stolen but not required.

In-person replacement at a DHSMV office

Walk into any DHSMV office during regular hours. Check the DHSMV website to find the office nearest you and confirm its hours, as they vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Bring the documents listed above and be ready to pay the replacement fee, which is currently $25 for a standard license valid for eight years.

The process itself is quick. You will check in, show your documents, have your photo taken (unless you are renewing an existing photo), and sign your new license. You will leave with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your new plastic license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you need the new license sooner — for travel or identification purposes — ask the DHSMV staff whether expedited mail is available; some offices offer it for an additional fee.

Online replacement through the DHSMV website

Go to the DHSMV website and select the option to replace your license. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information against DHSMV records. If everything matches, you will pay the replacement fee (currently $20 for online orders, $5 less than in-person) and confirm your mailing address.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. During this time, you will not have a valid physical license, so this option works best if you do not need to drive or show ID when ready. If you need a license sooner, you will have to visit an office in person instead.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

If your license was stolen, file a police report and keep the report number. Bring it to the DHSMV office when you replace your license, or include it in the notes section if you order online. The report number helps DHSMV flag your old license as invalid faster, which reduces the risk of identity theft.

If you lost your license and do not have a police report, you can still replace it. straightforward tell the DHSMV staff that it was lost. There is no penalty or extra fee — the replacement process is the same. The main difference is that your old license remains technically valid in the system until it expires, though it is no longer in your possession.

Replacing an expired or suspended license

If your license is expired, you can replace it using the same process as a standard replacement. Bring your expired license to an office, or use the online system if you have your expired license number. The fee and timeline are the same.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward replace it. You will need to resolve the suspension first — this usually means paying outstanding fines, completing a required course, or meeting other conditions set by DHSMV or the court. Once the suspension is lifted, you can replace your license normally. Contact DHSMV directly to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension.

Replacing a damaged or unreadable license

If your license is still valid but damaged, faded, or unreadable, you can replace it at any DHSMV office or online. Bring the damaged license with you if you visit in person. The replacement fee and process are identical to a standard replacement. DHSMV will take the old license and issue you a new one with the same number and expiration date.

If the damage is minor and your license is still readable, you do not have to replace it — but you can if you want to. A replacement is useful if the magnetic stripe no longer works, the photo is too faded to recognize you, or the card is cracked in a way that might cause problems at checkpoints or when presenting ID.

Replacing a license with a name change

If you changed your name since your license was issued, you will need to replace it with your new name. Bring your current license, proof of your name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of your Florida address, and your Social Security number. Visit an DHSMV office in person — you cannot do this online.

The fee is the same as a standard replacement. You will have your photo taken again and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your new license with your updated name will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with my temporary paper license while I wait for my new card?

Yes. The temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and counts as a legal license for driving and identification purposes. Keep it with you while you drive. Once your new plastic license arrives, the paper license is no longer needed.

What if I moved to Florida recently and my license is from another state?

You will need to get a Florida license, not replace your current one. This is a different process that requires a vision test and a written exam in most cases. Visit an DHSMV office to start a new license process rather than a replacement.

How much does it cost to replace my license?

In-person replacement costs $25. Online replacement costs $20. Both are valid for eight years. If you need expedited mail delivery, some offices charge an additional fee — ask when you visit or order.

What if my address changed since I got my license?

You can update your address during the replacement process. Bring proof of your new Florida address to an office, or update it online before you pay. There is no extra fee to change your address at the same time you replace your license.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Your replacement license is mailed directly to the address on file. You cannot pick it up at an office or have someone else collect it. If you need to change the mailing address before your license arrives, contact DHSMV as soon as possible.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.