The Pembroke Pines location and what it handles

The Pembroke Pines Driver License and Motor Vehicle Service Center is a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office located in Broward County. It processes driver license renewals, replacements, and new applications, along with vehicle registration and title work. This is a full-service center, not a limited office, so most transactions you need can be completed in one visit.

The center serves residents across western Broward County and is one of several DHSMV locations in the area. If you live closer to Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, or other nearby cities, you may have other options, but Pembroke Pines is the designated office for that zip code area. You can visit without an appointment, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week.

Key Takeaways

  • The Pembroke Pines center handles driver license renewals, replacements, new applications, and vehicle registration — you do not need to visit multiple offices for most transactions.
  • You can walk in without an appointment, but arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and any documents related to your specific transaction (renewal notice, vehicle title, proof of insurance).
  • The center accepts cash, card, and check for fees, though you should confirm current payment methods before you go.
  • If you need a Real ID or REAL ID-compliant license, this location can issue one, but you must bring specific documents proving citizenship and residency.

Documents to bring for a driver license transaction

What you need depends on whether you are renewing, replacing a lost or damaged license, or explore for the first time. For a renewal, bring your current driver license and your renewal notice if you received one by mail. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, bring a police report number or case number if you have one, though the office can sometimes issue a replacement without it.

For any transaction, bring proof of Florida residency. This can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address. A bank statement or insurance document also works. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you are explore for a Real ID or REAL ID-compliant license, the requirements are stricter. You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, or a passport card. You also need a Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. These documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

Hours, location, and how to check wait times

The Pembroke Pines Driver License and Motor Vehicle Service Center is located at 11380 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, FL 33026. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., though you should confirm current hours on the DHSMV website or by calling ahead, as hours can change seasonally or for holidays.

Florida's DHSMV website allows you to check real-time wait times for this location. You can visit the DHSMV homepage, select "Check Wait Times," and enter the Pembroke Pines office to see how many people are currently waiting and the average service time. This tool updates throughout the day and can help you choose the best time to visit. Early morning, typically between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., usually has the shortest waits.

If you prefer not to visit in person, you can renew your driver license online through the DHSMV website if you meet certain conditions — your license must not be suspended, you cannot have changed your name or address, and you must not need a new photo. Online renewal is faster and costs less than an in-person visit.

Fees and payment methods

Driver license renewal fees in Florida vary depending on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. A standard four-year renewal typically costs around $48, while an eight-year renewal costs more. A replacement for a lost or stolen license costs less than a renewal. Real ID-compliant licenses may have a slightly higher fee. Exact amounts change periodically, so check the DHSMV website for current pricing before you go.

The Pembroke Pines center accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some locations also accept checks, but card payment is the most reliable option. If you are paying by check, call ahead to confirm the center accepts them and ask for the correct payee name.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk or use a kiosk if the office has one. You will receive a number and wait to be called. Bring all your documents with you — staff will review them to make sure everything is in order before you proceed. If anything is missing or incorrect, they will tell you what you need to bring back.

Once your documents are verified, you will move to a service window where you will pay the fee and complete any required forms. If you need a new photo for your license, you will have your picture taken at the office. The photo is taken against a plain background and follows state standards. You cannot wear sunglasses, hats, or head coverings unless for religious reasons, and your face must be clearly visible.

After your transaction is complete, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, though you should ask about this when you arrive.

Common reasons visits take longer than expected

Missing or incorrect documents are the most common reason people have to leave and return. Bring everything on the list above, and double-check that your proof of residency is dated within the last 60 days. An expired utility bill or a document with an old address will not work.

If you are explore for a Real ID and your birth certificate is not an original or certified copy, you will not be able to complete the transaction that day. Photocopies, even notarized ones, are not accepted. If your name on your documents does not match your current legal name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

Suspended or revoked licenses also require additional steps. If your license is suspended, you cannot renew it at the service center — you must first resolve the suspension through the DHSMV or the court. Call the DHSMV at 1-844-DL-HELP-1 (1-844-354-3571) to find out why your license is suspended and what you need to do.

Alternatives if you cannot visit in person

If you are renewing a standard driver license and meet the online renewal requirements, you can renew through the DHSMV website without visiting the office. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes, costs less than in-person renewal, and your new license is mailed within 7 to 10 days. You cannot renew online if your license is suspended, if you need a new photo, or if you are changing your address or name.

Some transactions, such as obtaining a Real ID for the first time or replacing a suspended license, must be done in person. If you cannot visit Pembroke Pines, other DHSMV offices in Broward County include locations in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, and Pompano Beach. You can visit any DHSMV office in Florida — your county of residence does not matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make an appointment at the Pembroke Pines center?

No, the Pembroke Pines office operates on a walk-in basis. You do not need an appointment. However, you can check real-time wait times on the DHSMV website before you go, which helps you choose a time when the office is less busy. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits.

Can I get a Real ID at this location?

Yes, the Pembroke Pines center issues Real ID-compliant licenses. You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport or passport card, a Social Security card or document with your Social Security number, and proof of residency. Real ID licenses cost slightly more than standard licenses and take the same 7 to 10 days to arrive by mail.

What if I lost my renewal notice?

You do not need your renewal notice to renew your license. Bring your current driver license and proof of residency, and the staff will look up your information in the system. The renewal notice is helpful but not required.

How long does it take to get my new license after I visit?

You receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid right away. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. Some offices offer expedited mailing for an additional fee — ask about this option when you arrive if you need your license sooner.

What if my address or name has changed since my last license?

You must visit in person to update your address or name. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and a document showing your name change if applicable (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). You will need a new photo taken, so plan for a longer visit than a straightforward renewal.