What you need to do to update your Florida driver's license
You can change your address or name on your Florida driver's license without getting a new photo taken, as long as you go to a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in person. The process takes about 15 minutes, costs between $0 and $10 depending on what you're changing, and you'll walk out with an updated license the same day.
If you're changing your name because of marriage, divorce, or a court order, you'll need to bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or name change court order. For an address change, you just need to show proof of your new address, like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
You cannot change your address online or by mail in Florida. You must appear in person at a DHSMV office with your current license and the required documents.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes and name changes both require an in-person visit to a DHSMV office with your current license and proof documents.
- Name changes require a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order; address changes require a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
- You will receive your updated license on the same day you visit the office — no waiting period.
- The fee for an address change is $0; a name change costs $10 and requires a new photo.
What documents to bring for a name change
If you're changing your name on your license, bring one of these documents as proof:
- A certified copy of your marriage certificate (if you married)
- A certified copy of your divorce decree or final judgment (if you divorced)
- A certified copy of a court order for name change (if you changed your name through the courts)
The document must be a certified copy — a photocopy or uncertified version will not be accepted. If you don't have a certified copy yet, you can request one from the county clerk's office where the document was issued. This usually takes a few days to a week.
You will also need to bring your current Florida driver's license and a second form of identification, such as a passport, Social Security card, or birth certificate. When you change your name, DHSMV will take a new photo for your license, so plan to look presentable.
What documents to bring for an address change
For an address change, bring one document that shows your new address and is dated within the last 60 days:
- A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet)
- A lease or rental agreement
- A bank or credit card statement
- A mortgage statement
- An insurance policy
- A property tax bill
The document must have your name and your new address printed on it. A handwritten address will not work. If you just moved and don't have a document dated within 60 days yet, wait until you do — DHSMV will not accept older documents.
You will also need to bring your current Florida driver's license. You do not need a new photo for an address change, so the process is faster than a name change.
Where to go and what to expect
Visit any DHSMV office in Florida. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov. Some offices are busier than others, so going early in the day or on a weekday morning usually means a shorter wait.
When you arrive, take a number at the front desk and wait to be called. Tell the clerk you want to change your address or name. Hand over your current license and your proof documents. The clerk will enter the new information into the system, and you'll review it on a screen to make sure it's correct.
If you're changing your name, you'll have your photo taken at this point. The new license will be printed while you wait — usually within 5 to 10 minutes. You'll pay the fee (if any) and leave with your updated license in hand.
The cost and what happens to your old license
An address change costs $0 — there is no fee. A name change costs $10. You pay at the counter when your new license is ready.
Your old license will be taken and destroyed by DHSMV. You cannot keep it. Your new license will have the same number as your old one, so your driver's license number does not change when you update your address or name.
What to do if you cannot go in person
If you are unable to visit a DHSMV office because of a disability or medical condition, you may be able to request a home visit. Call the DHSMV at 1-844-5-FLORIDA (1-844-535-3742) to ask about this option. Not all counties offer home visits, and approval is not may provide.
If you are out of state or out of the country and need to change your address or name before you can return to Florida, you have limited options. Some address changes can be made by mail if you are a U.S. military member stationed overseas — contact DHSMV directly to ask. Otherwise, you will need to wait until you can visit an office in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to change my address or name?
No. DHSMV offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You can walk in during business hours and take a number. However, some offices are very busy, so arriving early or on a weekday morning usually means less waiting.
Can I change my address online or by mail?
No. Florida requires you to change your address or name in person at a DHSMV office. You cannot do it online, by phone, or by mail.
What if my name change document is not certified?
DHSMV will not accept it. You must have a certified copy issued by the court or county clerk. Contact the office that issued the original document and request a certified copy — this usually takes a few days to a week and may cost a small fee.
Will my driver's license number change?
No. Your license number stays the same when you change your address or name. Only the address or name field on the license is updated.
How long does it take to get my new license?
You receive your new license on the same day you visit the office. It is printed while you wait, usually within 5 to 10 minutes after the clerk finishes entering your information.