How to Renew Your Florida Driver's License

Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Florida driver's license in person at any Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes once you're called; online renewal can be completed from home in minutes but only works if your license is not suspended, you have no medical conditions on file, and your address hasn't changed.

For either method, bring your current Florida driver's license and proof of your Social Security number. If you're renewing in person, you'll also need proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. You do not need to bring your birth certificate or passport unless your name has changed since your license was issued.

Your license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. You can renew it up to 18 months before it expires, which means you can start the process well in advance if you prefer not to wait until the last minute.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Florida DHSMV website takes minutes if your license is not suspended and your address hasn't changed.
In-person renewal at any DHSMV office requires your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address dated within 60 days.
You can renew up to 18 months before your license expires, so you don't have to wait until the last moment.
Renewal fees vary depending on whether you choose a standard license or a Real ID-compliant license, which costs more but is required for federal buildings and flights.

Renewing online through the DHSMV website

Go to the official Florida DHSMV website and select the online renewal option. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm whether you're may be able to access to renew online — if you are, you'll proceed to pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card.

Online renewal does not include a new photo. Your existing photo will remain on your renewed license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at an DHSMV office. The renewed license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

If the system tells you that you cannot renew online, it will explain why — usually because your license is suspended, you have a medical restriction, or your address needs to be updated. In those cases, you'll need to visit an DHSMV office in person.

Renewing in person at an DHSMV office

Find your nearest DHSMV office on the state website and check its hours before you go. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to book an appointment online first. The website will tell you which offices in your area take appointments and which accept walk-ins, and it will show current wait times.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address. If your address has changed since your last license was issued, bring the new address proof. You'll have your photo taken at the office, and you can choose a standard Florida license or a Real ID-compliant license.

The renewal fee depends on which type of license you choose. A standard renewal costs less than a Real ID renewal. Real ID licenses are required to enter federal buildings, military bases, and to board domestic flights starting in 2025, so many people choose that option even though it costs more. Ask the staff member which option is right for your situation.

Real ID versus standard license renewal

A standard Florida driver's license allows you to drive and serves as identification for most everyday purposes. A Real ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. If you fly domestically or enter a federal building, courthouse, or military base, you'll need either a Real ID license or a passport.

Real ID renewal requires one additional document beyond the standard renewal documents: proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency. This can be your birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card. If you're renewing in person, bring this document with you. If you're renewing online and want to upgrade to Real ID, you'll need to do that in person instead.

The Real ID license costs more than a standard renewal, but it's valid for the same eight-year period. If you're unsure whether you need Real ID, ask yourself whether you fly domestically or enter federal buildings — if yes, Real ID is worth the extra cost.

What happens after you renew

If you renewed online, your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives. If you renewed in person, you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your plastic license will arrive by mail within the same timeframe. You can use the temporary license to drive when ready.

If your license doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact the DHSMV to report it. You can call their customer service line or visit an office in person. Keep your temporary paper license until the plastic one arrives, because you'll need proof of renewal if you're stopped by law enforcement.

Renewing if your license is suspended or expired

If your license is suspended, you cannot renew it online or in person until the suspension is lifted. Suspensions happen for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or medical conditions. You'll need to resolve the underlying issue first — pay the fine, resolve the child support matter, or clear the medical condition — before you can renew.

If your license has been expired for more than six months, you may need to take a written test and vision test when you renew, depending on how long it's been expired. The DHSMV website or an office staff member can tell you whether a test is required in your situation. If a test is required, you cannot renew online and must visit an office in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I've moved out of state?

No. You must renew your Florida license in Florida, either online or at an DHSMV office. If you've moved to another state, you'll need to get a driver's license from that state instead. You can renew your Florida license up to 18 months before it expires, so if you're planning to move, renew before you leave.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You cannot renew online if your name has changed. You must renew in person at an DHSMV office and bring a document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The staff will update your name in the system and issue a new license with the correct name.

How much does it cost to renew?

Renewal fees vary and depend on whether you choose a standard license or Real ID. Check the DHSMV website for current fees, as they change periodically. You'll pay the fee when you renew, either online by credit card or in person by cash, check, or card.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew your license yourself, either online or in person. You cannot authorize someone else to renew it on your behalf. If you're unable to visit an office, online renewal is your only option.

What if I lost my current license?

If your license is lost or stolen, you're replacing it rather than renewing it. That's a different process. Visit an DHSMV office with proof of identity and address, and they'll issue a replacement. You can renew at the same time if your license is also expiring soon.

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.