You can request a duplicate Florida driver license through the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) website without visiting an office in person.
Florida lets you order a replacement license online if your current license is lost, stolen, or damaged. The process takes place entirely on the DHSMV website, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method to complete the request.
This online option is faster than going to a driver license office and costs less than an in-person replacement. However, it only works if your license is still valid or expired by fewer than 6 months. If your license expired more than 6 months ago, you'll need to renew it instead, which requires a visit to an office or an appointment through the DHSMV.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a duplicate license online through the DHSMV website if your current license is lost, stolen, or damaged and still valid or expired less than 6 months ago.
- The online duplicate costs $20 and arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, with no office visit required.
- You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a credit or debit card to complete the online request.
- If your license expired more than 6 months ago, you must renew it in person or through an appointment rather than ordering a duplicate online.
What You Need Before You Start
Gather these items before you go to the DHSMV website to request your duplicate: your Social Security number, your date of birth, and the driver license number if you remember it. You'll also need a valid credit card or debit card to pay the $20 fee.
Have your current address ready. The DHSMV will mail your new license to the address on file with your account. If you've moved recently and haven't updated your address with the DHSMV, update it before you order the duplicate, or your license may arrive at your old address.
Steps to Order Your Duplicate License Online
Go to the DHSMV website and look for the "Order a Duplicate License" option under the driver license section. You'll be taken to a form where you enter your personal information: your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and driver license number if you have it. The system will verify your identity using the information in the DHSMV database.
After verification, you'll see a summary of your current license information and confirm that you want to order a duplicate. Review the mailing address — this is where your new license will be sent. Then select your payment method and complete the transaction. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and by email.
Keep your confirmation number. You can use it to track your order on the DHSMV website. Your new license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If it doesn't arrive within that window, contact the DHSMV using your confirmation number.
When You Cannot Order Online
The online duplicate option is not available if your license has been suspended or revoked. You'll need to contact the DHSMV directly or visit an office to understand the status of your license and what steps you need to take.
You also cannot order a duplicate online if your license expired more than 6 months ago. In that case, you're renewing rather than replacing, and renewal requires either an in-person visit to a driver license office or an appointment through the DHSMV online system. Renewal involves a new photo, so it cannot be done by mail.
If you need your duplicate license faster than 7 to 10 business days, you can visit a driver license office in person and request an expedited duplicate. Some offices can issue a temporary license the same day, though availability varies by location.
Updating Your Address at the Same Time
If you've moved since your current license was issued, you can update your address through the DHSMV website before you order your duplicate. Go to the address change section and enter your new address. This update takes effect when ready in the DHSMV system.
When you then order your duplicate, it will be mailed to your new address. Updating your address first prevents your new license from going to an old address where you no longer live. If you forget to update your address and your duplicate arrives at your old address, contact the DHSMV to request a new duplicate sent to the correct address.
What Happens After Your Duplicate Arrives
Your new license will look and function exactly like your old one. It has the same number, expiration date, and restrictions or endorsements as your previous license. You can use it when ready for driving, identification, and any other purpose your old license served.
If you find your original lost or stolen license after your duplicate arrives, you don't need to do anything. straightforward destroy the old one. You cannot have two active licenses with the same number, but the DHSMV system automatically deactivates the old one once the duplicate is issued.
Cost and Payment
A duplicate license ordered online costs $20. This fee is lower than the cost of an in-person replacement at a driver license office, which may include additional fees depending on your county. You pay by credit card or debit card at the time you place your order.
The $20 fee is non-refundable once your order is confirmed. If you change your mind before completing payment, you can close your browser without submitting the form and no charge will be made to your card.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my duplicate license in the mail?
The DHSMV estimates 7 to 10 business days from the time you place your order. This does not include weekends or state holidays. If your license doesn't arrive within that window, use your confirmation number to check the status on the DHSMV website or contact them directly.
Can I order a duplicate if my license is suspended?
No. The online system will not allow you to order a duplicate if your license is suspended or revoked. You must contact the DHSMV or visit an office to address the suspension before you can get a replacement license.
What if I moved and my address on file is wrong?
Update your address on the DHSMV website before you order your duplicate. Your new license will then be mailed to your current address. If you order first and realize your address is wrong, contact the DHSMV with your confirmation number to request a new duplicate sent to the correct address.
Do I need to take a new photo for a duplicate license?
No. A duplicate uses your existing photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you'll need to renew your license in person at a driver license office, not order a duplicate online.
Can I track my order after I place it?
Yes. Use your confirmation number on the DHSMV website to check the status of your duplicate license order. You can also contact the DHSMV directly with your confirmation number if you have questions about your order.