What You Need to Do Right Now
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Florida driver's license, you have two paths: go to a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in person, or mail your process to the state. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and you leave with a temporary license the same day. The mail route takes 7 to 10 business days after the DHSMV receives your envelope, but you do not have to leave home.
Both routes require the same documents: a completed process form (HSMV 80039), proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and payment. If your license was stolen, you also need to report it to the Florida Highway Patrol or your local police department first — the DHSMV will ask for a report number.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace your license in person at any DHSMV office or by mail; in-person is faster but requires a trip, while mail takes one to two weeks.
- You must bring or mail proof of your Social Security number, proof of your address, a completed process form, and payment — the DHSMV website lists which documents count for each.
- If your license was stolen, file a police report first and bring the report number to the DHSMV office or include it with your mail process.
- A replacement license costs $25 and is valid for eight years; you can renew it by mail or online before it expires.
- The DHSMV issues a temporary paper license on the spot if you go in person, so you can drive legally while waiting for your permanent card.
In-Person Replacement at a DHSMV Office
Walk into any DHSMV office with your documents and a completed HSMV 80039 form. You can fill out the form at home before you go, or ask the staff to hand you one when you arrive. Bring your proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and $25 cash or card. If your license was stolen, bring your police report number.
The office will take your photo, verify your information, and print a temporary license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and lets you drive legally while you wait for your permanent card in the mail. Your permanent license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Most DHSMV offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. Check the DHSMV website to find the office nearest you and confirm its hours before you go.
Mailing Your Replacement process
Complete the HSMV 80039 form at home and gather your documents: proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and a check or money order for $25 made out to the Florida DHSMV. If your license was stolen, include a copy of your police report or write the report number on the process. Mail everything to the address listed on the DHSMV website — the mailing address varies by region, so check before you send.
The DHSMV processes mail applications in the order they arrive. Once they receive your envelope, processing takes 7 to 10 business days. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address you listed on the form. You cannot drive legally during this time unless you have a temporary license from an in-person visit. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, go to a DHSMV office instead.
What Counts as Proof of Social Security Number
The DHSMV accepts your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your full Social Security number. You can bring the original or a copy. If you do not have any of these, call the DHSMV at 1-844-DL-HELP-1 (1-844-354-3571) to ask what other documents they will take.
What Counts as Proof of Address
Your proof of address must be dated within the last 90 days. The DHSMV accepts a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, an insurance bill, or a bank or credit card statement. The document must show your name and your current Florida address. A post office mail forwarding notice does not count. If you recently moved and do not have a document dated within 90 days yet, bring a lease or purchase agreement plus a utility bill or bank statement in your name, even if it shows an old address — the DHSMV may accept both together.
If Your License Was Stolen
Report the theft to the Florida Highway Patrol or your local police department before you go to the DHSMV. You can file the report in person at a police station, by phone, or online through your police department's website. Write down the report number or ask for a copy of the report itself. Bring the report number or a copy of the report to the DHSMV office, or include it with your mail process. The DHSMV uses the report to flag your old license so no one else can use it.
If you are concerned about identity theft — for example, if other documents were stolen with your license — contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit file. This is separate from replacing your license, but it is a step many people take when a license is stolen.
Cost and Timeline Comparison
| Route | Cost | Time to Get License | Can Drive Legally While Waiting |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-person at DHSMV office | $25 | 7–10 business days (permanent card arrives by mail) | Yes, temporary license issued same day |
| Mail process | $25 | 7–10 business days after DHSMV receives it | No, unless you also visit an office for a temporary license |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online?
No. Florida does not offer online replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. You must go in person or mail your process. However, you can renew a license that is about to expire online at the DHSMV website.
What if I do not have proof of my address?
Call the DHSMV at 1-844-354-3571 to ask what alternatives they will accept. Some offices may accept a letter from your landlord, employer, or a government agency on letterhead confirming your address. Bring whatever you have and ask the staff what else they need.
How long is a replacement license valid?
A replacement license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person before it expires. The DHSMV will mail you a renewal notice about 90 days before your license expires.
Do I need to take a new photo for a replacement?
Yes, if you go in person. The DHSMV takes a new photo at the office. If you mail your process, they use the photo from your old license, so you do not need to provide one.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with the wrong information?
Contact the DHSMV when ready. Go to a DHSMV office or call 1-844-354-3571 to report the error. Bring your damaged license and the documents you used to replace it. The DHSMV will issue a corrected license at no extra charge.