What you need to get a Florida driver license

To get a Florida driver license, you must visit a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in person with proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Florida residency. You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test, then a driving test if you are explore for the first time or after a suspension.

Florida does not issue driver licenses by mail or online. Every applicant must appear at a DHSMV office, which means you cannot complete this process remotely. The office will take your photograph and fingerprints during your visit.

If you are under 18, you must also complete a traffic law and substance abuse course (sometimes called a drug and alcohol course) before you can take the driving test. This course can be taken online through a DHSMV-approved provider, but the certificate must be brought to your in-person appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DHSMV office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Florida residency to get a driver license.
  • Florida charges $75 for an eight-year driver license and $48 for a four-year license if you are over 21; younger drivers pay different fees depending on age.
  • The written knowledge test covers Florida traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official DHSMV handbook available free online.
  • If you are under 18, you must complete a traffic law and substance abuse course before taking the driving test.
  • Processing times vary, but you typically receive your license in the mail within two to three weeks after passing all tests.

Documents you must bring to the DHSMV office

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a certificate of naturalization. A photocopy or a photo on your phone will not work — the document must be the original or an official certified copy.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can explore for one at the Social Security Administration office before visiting DHSMV.

For proof of Florida residency, bring two documents that show your current Florida address. These can include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a government check, a property tax bill, or a homeowner's insurance policy. Both documents must be dated within the last 60 days. A driver license from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Driver license fees and how long they last

An eight-year driver license costs $75 if you are 21 or older. A four-year license costs $48 for the same age group. Younger drivers pay less: a license for someone 16 to 20 years old costs $48 for four years, and a license for someone 15 years old costs $33 for two years.

These fees cover the cost of the license itself. You do not pay separately for the knowledge test or the driving test. However, if you fail the driving test and need to retake it, you must pay a retest fee of $10 each time you take it again.

Your license will expire on your birthday in the year printed on the card. For example, if you receive an eight-year license on March 15, 2024, it will expire on March 15, 2032. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires.

The written knowledge test and driving test

The written knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions about Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DHSMV office, and you receive your score when ready after you finish.

You can study for the test using the official Florida Driver License Handbook, which is free and available on the DHSMV website. The handbook covers everything on the test. Many people study it for a few hours before their appointment and pass on the first try.

The driving test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping. You must follow all traffic laws during the test. If you fail, you can retake it after paying the $10 retest fee, usually within a few days.

How to schedule your DHSMV appointment

You can schedule an appointment online through the DHSMV website or by calling 1-844-DL-FLHWY (1-844-353-5499). Online scheduling is usually faster and shows you available times at offices near you. You can also walk in to a DHSMV office without an appointment, but wait times are often longer.

When you schedule online, you will choose the type of service you need (new driver license, renewal, or replacement), select an office location, and pick a date and time. You will receive a confirmation number by email or text. Bring this confirmation number to your appointment.

Some DHSMV offices are busier than others. If an office near you has long wait times, try scheduling at a different location or a different time of day. Early morning appointments and appointments on weekdays are often less crowded than afternoon or weekend times.

What happens after you pass the tests

After you pass the knowledge test and driving test, the DHSMV office will take your photograph and process your process. You will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is being printed and mailed to you.

Your permanent license is mailed to the Florida address you provided on your process. It typically arrives within two to three weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. If you move before your license arrives, you can request a replacement at your new address, but you will pay a replacement fee of $25.

Your temporary paper license is valid for driving during this waiting period. You must carry it with you whenever you drive. Once your permanent license arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid.

Renewing or replacing your Florida driver license

You can renew your license up to six months before it expires. Renewal by mail is available if your license is not suspended and you have not had any major changes to your information. To renew by mail, send your current license, the renewal form (available on the DHSMV website), and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form.

If you cannot renew by mail, you must visit a DHSMV office in person. This is required if your license is suspended, if you have changed your name, or if you need a new photograph. The process is the same as getting a new license, except you do not need to take the knowledge test or driving test again.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at a DHSMV office. A replacement license costs $25 and takes the same two to three weeks to arrive by mail. You will receive a temporary paper license while you wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Real ID-compliant license for domestic flights?

Yes. A Real ID-compliant Florida driver license has a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used as identification for domestic flights, federal buildings, and military bases. If your license does not have this star, you can request a Real ID upgrade at a DHSMV office for no additional fee when you renew.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after paying a $10 retest fee. You do not need to retake the knowledge test. You can usually schedule a retest within a few days at the same DHSMV office. Bring the same vehicle and documents you brought the first time.

Do I need a learner's permit before I can take the driving test?

No. You can take the knowledge test and driving test on the same day if you pass the knowledge test first. However, if you are under 18, you must complete a traffic law and substance abuse course before you can take the driving test, even if you pass the knowledge test.

How long is my temporary paper license valid?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. Your permanent license should arrive by mail before this expires. If it does not, contact the DHSMV office where you applied to check the status of your process.

What if I move to a different Florida address before my license arrives?

Contact the DHSMV office where you applied and provide your new address. They can update your mailing address at no cost. Your license will be sent to your new address instead. If your license was already mailed to your old address, you can request a replacement at your new address for a $25 fee.