How to replace your Florida driver's license

You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Florida driver's license in person at a Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office, or by mail if your license is only damaged and you still have it. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and costs $25 for a standard replacement. Mail replacement costs $20 and takes 7 to 10 business days. You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of Florida residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

If your license was stolen, you should also file a report with the police or sheriff's office in the county where the theft occurred. This creates a record in case someone tries to use your license fraudulently. Bring the police report number to your DHSMV appointment if you have it, though it's not required to get a replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person replacement at a DHSMV office costs $25 and takes about 30 minutes; mail replacement costs $20 and takes 7 to 10 business days.
  • You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of Florida residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • If your license was stolen, file a police report first so you have documentation in case of fraud.
  • You can replace a damaged license by mail if you still have the physical card; lost or stolen licenses require an in-person visit.
  • Your replacement license will have the same number and expiration date as your original unless you request a renewal at the same time.

What documents you need to bring

Florida requires two forms of identification to replace your license. Your primary ID can be a valid U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, military ID, or permanent resident card. Your secondary ID can be a Social Security card, W-2 form, bank statement, or utility bill in your name.

You also need proof that you live in Florida. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address works. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill yet, a lease or rental agreement is usually accepted.

Bring your Social Security number or ITIN. If you don't have either, you'll need to contact DHSMV before your visit to find out what alternative documents they'll accept.

In-person replacement at a DHSMV office

Visit any DHSMV office in Florida during business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DHSMV website.

You do not need an appointment for a replacement license, but many offices allow you to reserve a time slot online to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but arriving early in the morning typically means shorter lines. Bring all required documents, your $25 fee in cash or card, and your current license if you still have it.

The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and print your replacement license on the spot. You'll receive it when ready and can use it right away for driving. Your new license will have the same number and expiration date as your original license unless you request a renewal at the same time.

Mail replacement for damaged licenses

If your license is damaged but you still have the physical card, you can request a replacement by mail. You cannot use mail replacement if your license is lost or stolen — those require an in-person visit.

read the process for Duplicate Driver License form (HSMV 82053) from the DHSMV website. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it along with your damaged license, a check or money order for $20 made payable to DHSMV, and a copy of your proof of residency. Send the package to the DHSMV address listed on the form.

Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after DHSMV receives your process. Your replacement license will be mailed to the address on file. If you need your license faster, go to a DHSMV office in person instead.

What to do if your license was stolen

File a police or sheriff's report in the county where the theft occurred. You can do this in person at your local police station or sheriff's office, or online through your county's website if they offer that option. Keep the report number — it documents the theft and protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license.

Bring the police report number to your DHSMV appointment. It's not required to get a replacement, but it creates an official record that your license was stolen rather than lost. If fraud occurs later, the report helps prove you reported the theft beforehand.

Consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) if your license contained sensitive information. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

Replacing your license if you're out of state

If you're living outside Florida temporarily or permanently, you have two options: request a replacement by mail, or wait until you return to Florida to visit a DHSMV office.

Mail replacement is only available for damaged licenses, not lost or stolen ones. If your license was lost or stolen while you're out of state, you'll need to either return to Florida for an in-person visit or contact DHSMV to ask about exceptions. Some states have reciprocal agreements that allow Florida residents to handle certain transactions at their local DMV, but this varies and is not may provide.

If you're moving to Florida permanently and your out-of-state license is lost or stolen, you can replace your Florida license as soon as you arrive and establish residency. Bring proof of your new Florida address and your other required documents to any DHSMV office.

Costs and payment methods

In-person replacement costs $25. Mail replacement costs $20. Both fees are non-refundable. At a DHSMV office, you can pay with cash or card. For mail replacement, send a check or money order made payable to DHSMV.

If you're replacing your license at the same time as renewing it, the costs are combined. A renewal costs $48 for an eight-year license, so a replacement-renewal would cost $73 total. Ask the DHSMV staff whether combining them makes sense for your situation — if your license expires soon anyway, it may be worth doing both at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Yes. When you replace your license in person at a DHSMV office, you receive the new license when ready and can drive with it right away. If you're using mail replacement, you cannot drive legally until your replacement arrives, so plan accordingly.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. If you have neither, contact DHSMV before your visit to find out what documents they will accept as an alternative.

Will my replacement license have a different number?

No. Your replacement license will have the same number as your original license. The number stays with you unless you request a new one, which requires a separate process and fee.

How long does a replacement license last?

Your replacement license has the same expiration date as your original license. If your original license was set to expire in two years, your replacement also expires in two years. You don't get extra time just because you had to replace it.

What if I lost my license and don't have a police report?

You can still get a replacement without a police report. A report is only necessary if your license was stolen and you want to document the theft. For a lost license, go to any DHSMV office with your required documents and pay the $25 fee.