What You'll Pay to Renew in Florida

A standard Florida driver's license renewal costs $75 if you renew in person at a Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office. If you renew by mail, the fee is the same: $75. If you renew online through the DHSMV website, you'll also pay $75.

The fee covers an eight-year license for most adults. If you're over 80 years old, your renewal is valid for four years instead, and the cost remains $75. The price does not change based on how long your current license has been expired or how close you are to the expiration date.

Some counties charge an additional service fee when you renew in person — typically $2 to $5 — on top of the state renewal fee. This varies by location, so call your local DHSMV office before you go if you want to know the exact total.

Key Takeaways

  • Florida charges $75 to renew a standard driver's license, whether you renew in person, by mail, or online.
  • Your renewed license is valid for eight years if you're under 80; if you're 80 or older, it's valid for four years.
  • Some counties add a $2 to $5 service fee when you renew in person, so the total may be higher than $75.
  • You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check, depending on which renewal method you choose.

Payment Methods by Renewal Route

If you renew online, you must pay by credit card or debit card. The DHSMV website accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. You cannot pay by check or cash online.

If you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order. Make the check payable to the "Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles" and include it with your renewal process. Do not send cash through the mail.

If you renew in person at a DHSMV office, you can pay by cash, check, credit card, or debit card. Most offices accept all four methods, but call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.

When Your Renewal Fee Is Higher

If you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the cost is different. A CDL renewal costs $75 for the license itself, but you may owe additional fees if you need to add or renew endorsements (such as hazmat or passenger endorsements). Each endorsement adds to the total cost.

If your license has been expired for more than six months, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must renew in person. This does not change the $75 fee, but it does mean you'll need to visit a DHSMV office and may need to retake the written test or eye exam depending on how long it's been expired.

If you need a duplicate license (because yours was lost or stolen) instead of a renewal, the fee is $25, not $75. A duplicate is different from a renewal and is processed separately.

What Happens If You Pay Online or by Mail

When you pay online through the DHSMV website, your payment is processed when ready. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office.

When you pay by mail, your check or money order must arrive with your completed renewal form. Processing takes longer — typically 2 to 3 weeks from the date the DHSMV receives your process. Mail your renewal at least four weeks before your license expires to avoid a gap.

If your check bounces or your payment is declined, the DHSMV will contact you. You'll have a chance to resubmit payment, but your renewal will be delayed.

Fees You Might Owe on Top of the $75

If you renew in person and your county charges a service fee, you'll owe that fee in addition to the $75 state renewal fee. This is collected by the county tax collector's office, not the DHSMV. The total will be $77 to $80 depending on your county.

If you need to take the written test or eye exam as part of your renewal (because your license has been expired too long), there is no additional fee — the $75 covers the renewal and any required testing.

If you want to change your name, address, or other information on your license during renewal, there is no extra charge. These updates are included in the $75 renewal fee.

How to Know the Exact Cost Before You Renew

Visit the official DHSMV website (flhsmv.gov) and select your renewal method. The website will show you the $75 fee and tell you whether your county adds a service fee. You can also call your local DHSMV office directly — they can tell you the exact total you'll owe.

If you're renewing by mail, the DHSMV renewal form will list the fee and show you where to send your check. If you're renewing online, the website will confirm the total before you enter your payment information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay the renewal fee in installments?

No. Florida requires the full $75 fee (plus any county service fee) at the time of renewal. You cannot split the payment or pay it over time.

What if I renew my license but it arrives damaged or with a mistake?

Contact the DHSMV and request a replacement. If the error was made by the DHSMV, the replacement is free. If you damaged it yourself, you'll owe a $25 duplicate fee.

Do I get a refund if I renew early?

No. The $75 fee is non-refundable. You can renew up to six months before your license expires, but you'll pay the full amount regardless of when you renew.

Is the renewal fee the same if I have a Real ID?

Yes. A Real ID-compliant Florida driver's license costs $75 to renew, the same as a standard license. Real ID does not add to the renewal cost.

What if my license expired more than six months ago?

You must renew in person at a DHSMV office. The fee is still $75, but you may need to retake the written test or eye exam. Call your local office to find out what documents and tests you'll need.