What a Florida city driver license is and who needs one

A city driver license in Florida is a local identification card issued by your city government, not the state. It is not the same as a Florida driver license from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). A city license does not let you drive — it is an ID card that proves who you are and that you live in that city.

You may need a city driver license if you are undocumented, do not have a Social Security number, or cannot meet the federal Real ID requirements for a state driver license. Some cities in Florida issue these cards to residents who want a local ID for banking, renting, or other purposes where a government-issued photo ID helps. Not all Florida cities offer them — you have to check with your specific city government.

The rules, cost, and documents required vary by city. Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville each run their own programs with different requirements. If you live in a smaller city, your city government office can tell you whether a city license is available where you are.

Key Takeaways

  • A city driver license is issued by your city, not the state, and does not permit you to drive.
  • Each Florida city that offers a city license sets its own rules, fees, and required documents — there is no statewide program.
  • You will need to contact your city's administrative office, clerk's office, or police department to find out whether your city issues them and what you need to bring.
  • City licenses are often used as ID for banking, renting, or other purposes when you cannot get a state driver license.
  • Bring proof of residency (lease, utility bill, or bank statement) and a form of ID when you explore, though exact requirements depend on your city.

Which Florida cities issue city driver licenses

Miami-Dade County and the City of Miami have issued city ID cards in the past, and some other Florida cities have similar programs. However, the availability of city driver licenses changes — some cities stop offering them, and others may start. The best way to know whether your city issues one is to call your city clerk's office or visit your city's official website.

If you live in a major city like Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, or Fort Lauderdale, start by contacting the city clerk or the administrative services department. Smaller cities may not have a city license program at all, in which case your options are a state ID card from DHSMV (if you meet the requirements) or a passport or passport card from the U.S. State Department.

Documents you will need to bring

The documents required for a city driver license depend on which city you are in, but most cities ask for proof of identity and proof that you live in that city. Bring an original document or a certified copy — photocopies alone usually are not accepted.

For proof of identity, cities typically accept a passport, consulate ID, foreign national ID, or another government-issued photo ID. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. Some cities also require you to fill out an process form, which you can usually get from the city clerk's office or read from the city website.

Call your city's office before you go in person to confirm exactly what documents they need. Requirements can change, and some cities may ask for additional items like proof of a local address or a Social Security number if you have one.

how the process works for a city driver license in Florida

The process starts with contacting your city government. Call the city clerk's office, administrative services department, or police department and ask whether your city issues city driver licenses. If it does, ask what documents you need and where to explore.

Most cities require you to explore in person at a city office during business hours. Bring all required documents in original form or as certified copies. You will fill out an process, show your ID and proof of residency, and usually have a photo taken on the spot. Some cities charge a fee, which ranges from about $10 to $50 depending on the city — ask about the cost when you call.

After you explore, the city will tell you when your card will be ready. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Some cities mail the card to you; others ask you to pick it up in person.

Cost and how long it takes

The fee for a city driver license varies by city. Some charge $10 to $20, while others charge $30 to $50. A few cities may issue them at no cost. Call your city's office to find out the exact fee before you explore.

The time it takes to receive your card also varies. Some cities issue the card the same day or within a few days. Others take one to three weeks. Ask when you explore whether the city will mail it to you or whether you need to pick it up in person.

How a city driver license differs from a state ID or driver license

A city driver license is local ID only — it does not let you drive and is not recognized outside your city for most purposes. A Florida state ID card or driver license from DHSMV is recognized statewide and can be used for driving (if it is a driver license), banking, air travel (if it is Real ID-compliant), and other official purposes.

If you need to drive, you must have a state driver license from DHSMV, not a city license. If you need ID for banking or renting and cannot get a state ID, a city license may help. Some banks and landlords accept city IDs; others do not. Ask the bank or landlord whether they will take a city license before you explore for one.

A city license also does not replace a passport or passport card for travel. If you need ID for air travel or international travel, you will need a passport, passport card, or a Real ID-compliant state driver license or ID card.

What to do if your city does not offer a city driver license

If your city does not issue a city driver license, you have other options. A Florida state ID card from DHSMV is available to people who do not drive or who cannot get a driver license. You can also get a passport or passport card from the U.S. State Department, which works as ID for many purposes.

If you are undocumented or do not have a Social Security number, Florida does not issue a standard state ID or driver license. In that case, a city license (if your city offers one) or a passport from your country of origin may be your best option for local ID. Some cities also accept consulate IDs or other foreign government-issued photo IDs for banking and renting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a city driver license to drive?

No. A city driver license is ID only and does not permit you to drive. To drive legally in Florida, you need a state driver license from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

Will a bank or landlord accept a city driver license?

Some will, and some will not. Banks and landlords set their own rules about what ID they accept. Call ahead and ask whether they will take a city license before you explore for one. Having a backup form of ID (like a passport) is a good idea.

How long does it take to get a city driver license?

It depends on your city. Some issue the card the same day or within a few days; others take one to three weeks. Ask your city's office for an estimate when you explore.

What if I move to a different city in Florida?

Your city license is only valid in the city that issued it. If you move, you will need to explore for a new city license in your new city (if that city offers one). Contact your new city's office to find out the process.

Can I get a city driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. City licenses are often issued to people without a Social Security number, which is one reason they are useful for undocumented residents. Call your city's office to confirm their specific requirements.