Where to get your license in Hollywood

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues all driver licenses in Florida. In Hollywood, you go to the local Driver License Office, which is located at 2601 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, FL 33020. This is the only place in Hollywood where you can take your written test, road test, and pick up your license on the same day or across multiple visits.

The Hollywood office is open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 8:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Closed Sundays and state holidays. You can walk in without an appointment, but wait times vary — typically 30 minutes to two hours depending on the time of day and day of week. Early morning and mid-week visits usually have shorter waits.

If you cannot reach the Hollywood location, the nearest alternative DHSMV offices are in Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach, both within 10 miles. All three offices issue the same licenses and accept the same documents.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hollywood Driver License Office at 2601 Hollywood Boulevard is where you take your written test, road test, and receive your license.
  • You need a Real ID-compliant document (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) plus proof of Social Security number and Florida residency to get a license.
  • Florida requires you to pass a written test covering road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving before you can take the road test.
  • The road test lasts about 20 minutes and tests your ability to handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.
  • Fees vary by license type: a standard Class D license costs $48 for an eight-year term, while a REAL ID license costs $58.

Documents you need to bring

Florida requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You cannot get a license without all three.

Proof of identity must be a Real ID-compliant document. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate (certified copy with raised seal), state ID card, military ID, or permanent resident card. A regular photo ID like a school ID or work badge does not count. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy — a photocopy or hospital-issued copy will be rejected.

Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. A tax return also works. You do not need to bring the original — a copy is acceptable.

Proof of residency must show your current Florida address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. A driver license from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Written test and road test requirements

Before you can take the road test, you must pass the written knowledge test. This test has 50 questions covering Florida traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and parking rules. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the Driver License Office and takes about 30 minutes.

You can study using the official Florida Driver Handbook, available free on the DHSMV website or in print at the office. Many people also use online practice tests to prepare. There is no fee to take the written test, and you can retake it the same day if you fail, though you may have to wait in line again.

Once you pass the written test, you can schedule your road test the same day or return on another date. The road test lasts about 20 minutes and tests your ability to start the vehicle, follow traffic laws, use mirrors and signals, park, and handle turns and stops. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner sits in the passenger seat and observes your driving. You must pass the road test to receive your license.

License types and costs in Florida

Florida offers two main types of driver licenses: a standard Class D license and a REAL ID-compliant license. Both allow you to drive, but they differ in what you can use them for and how much they cost.

A standard Class D license costs $48 and is valid for eight years. You can use it to drive anywhere in Florida and the United States. However, starting May 7, 2025, you cannot use it to board a domestic airplane or enter a federal building that requires ID. If you need to fly domestically or enter federal facilities, you will need a REAL ID license or a passport.

A REAL ID-compliant license costs $58 and is also valid for eight years. It meets federal standards and can be used for domestic air travel and federal building access. The REAL ID license looks the same as a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. Getting a REAL ID license requires the same documents as a standard license — there is no extra step beyond paying the higher fee.

If you are under 18, you can get a learner permit first, which costs $24 and is valid for two years. A learner permit lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car. You must hold the permit for at least one month before taking the road test for a full license.

How to renew or replace your license

If your license is expiring, you can renew it in person at the Hollywood Driver License Office or online through the DHSMV website. Online renewal is available if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed. Online renewal costs $48 for a standard license and takes about two weeks by mail.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at the Hollywood office. A replacement license costs $25 and is issued the same day. You do not need to retake the written or road test — just bring your identity and residency documents.

If you have moved to Hollywood from another state and already have a valid driver license, you can exchange it for a Florida license at the Hollywood office. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You do not need to take any tests. The fee is $48 for a standard Florida license.

Special situations: Suspensions and restrictions

If your license is suspended in Florida or another state, you cannot get a new license until the suspension is lifted. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or conviction of certain traffic offenses. You must resolve the underlying issue with the court or agency that suspended your license before the DHSMV will issue a new one.

If you have medical conditions that affect your ability to drive — such as vision problems, hearing loss, or seizure disorders — the DHSMV may issue your license with restrictions. For example, you might be required to wear corrective lenses, use a hearing aid, or drive only during daylight hours. The examiner or a medical review officer will determine what restrictions, if any, explore to you.

If you are a non-citizen, you can get a Florida driver license if you have a valid visa or are a permanent resident. You will need to bring your passport and visa or green card along with your other documents. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a standard driver license but may be able to get a limited-purpose ID card, which cannot be used for federal purposes but can be used for driving and identification within Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. The written test must be taken in person at a DHSMV Driver License Office. You cannot take it online or by mail. You can study at home using the Florida Driver Handbook or practice tests, but the actual test is administered on a computer at the office.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test, but you must wait at least one day before your next attempt. There is no fee to retake the test. You can schedule your next test at the office after you fail, or you can return on another day. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Do I need to bring my own car for the road test?

Yes. The vehicle must be registered and insured in Florida, have valid tags, and be in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before the test begins. You cannot use a rental car or borrow someone else's vehicle unless it is registered to you or you have written permission from the owner.

How long does it take to get a license after I pass the road test?

Your license is issued the same day you pass the road test. You receive a temporary paper license at the office, and your plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the plastic card.

What is the difference between a REAL ID and a standard license?

A REAL ID license meets federal standards and can be used for domestic air travel and federal building access. A standard license cannot be used for these purposes after May 7, 2025. Both cost the same to renew and are valid for eight years. The REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner.