What you need to do to update your Florida driver's license
You can update your Florida driver's license at any Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in person. Updates include address changes, name changes, correcting information on your license, or renewing an expired or expiring license. The process depends on what you're updating — some changes require you to appear in person, while others can be handled by mail or online if the change is minor.
Florida does not allow you to update your license online for most changes. The state requires you to visit a DHSMV office, bring specific documents, and pay any applicable fees. The one exception is a straightforward address change, which you can report online through the DHSMV website without visiting an office, though your physical license will not be reissued unless you request a replacement.
Key Takeaways
- Most license updates require an in-person visit to a DHSMV office with proof of your identity and the change you're making.
- Address changes can be reported online without visiting an office, but you won't receive a new license card unless you pay for a replacement.
- Name changes require a certified copy of the document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — plus your current license and proof of residency.
- Processing times vary: in-person updates are usually completed the same day, but mail-in requests can take two to four weeks.
- You'll need to bring your Social Security number, proof of Florida residency, and proof of identity to any in-person visit.
What documents to bring for an in-person update
Bring your current Florida driver's license or ID card, even if it's expired. You'll also need proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), proof of Florida residency (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and a primary form of identification (a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate).
If you're updating your name, bring the certified document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're correcting information on your license (like your date of birth or eye color), bring documents that support the correction — a birth certificate for date of birth, for example. The DHSMV office staff can tell you exactly what documents they need when you call ahead or check the DHSMV website for your specific situation.
How to update your address online
Visit the DHSMV website and log into your account using your driver's license number and date of birth. Select the option to update your address and enter your new Florida address. The change takes effect when ready in the DHSMV system, and you can use it for voting, vehicle registration, and other official purposes.
However, your physical license card will still show your old address. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you'll need to pay a replacement fee (currently $25 for a standard license) and either visit a DHSMV office or request a replacement by mail. A mailed replacement typically arrives within two to four weeks.
How to update your name in person
Visit your nearest DHSMV office with your current license, certified copy of the document proving your name change, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order all count as proof of a legal name change. The office will not accept a photocopy — you must bring the certified original or a certified copy.
The DHSMV will issue you a new license with your updated name on the same day in most cases. You'll pay a replacement fee (currently $25 for a standard license). If you're changing your name due to marriage or divorce, some DHSMV offices can process the change faster if you bring the certified document and your current license together.
How to correct information on your license
If your license has an error — your date of birth is wrong, your eye color is listed incorrectly, or your name is misspelled — visit a DHSMV office with your current license and documents that prove what the correct information should be. A birth certificate corrects your date of birth; an updated vision test corrects your eye color; a certified name change document corrects a misspelled name.
Corrections are usually processed the same day at no charge if the error was made by the DHSMV. If you're requesting a correction that requires a new photo or updated information, you may pay a replacement fee. Call your local DHSMV office before visiting to confirm what documents they need and whether a fee applies to your specific correction.
Finding your nearest DHSMV office and wait times
Use the DHSMV office locator on the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website to find the office nearest you. The locator shows office hours, phone numbers, and services offered at each location. Some offices handle all services; others specialize in certain transactions like commercial licenses or vehicle registration.
Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in rural areas typically have shorter waits than those in urban centers. Many DHSMV offices now offer online appointment scheduling through the website, which can reduce your wait time significantly. You can also call ahead to ask about current wait times before you visit.
Fees for license updates and replacements
A standard driver's license replacement costs $25 in Florida. This fee applies whether you're updating your name, address, or correcting information and receiving a new card. If you're renewing an expired license at the same time as making an update, you'll pay both the renewal fee and the replacement fee.
Address changes reported online do not incur a fee if you don't request a new card. Corrections made by the DHSMV due to their error are usually free. Payment methods accepted at DHSMV offices include cash, debit card, and credit card; some offices may have restrictions on which cards they accept, so call ahead if you want to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my license by mail?
Most updates require an in-person visit. Address changes can be reported online. If you need a replacement card mailed to you, you can request one by mail after visiting an office or, for some changes, by submitting the required documents by mail — call your local DHSMV office to ask whether your specific update can be handled by mail.
How long does it take to get an updated license?
In-person updates are usually completed the same day, and you receive your new card before you leave the office. Mail-in requests take two to four weeks. Online address changes take effect when ready in the system, but a replacement card mailed to you takes two to four weeks.
Do I need an appointment to update my license?
Appointments are not required but are strongly recommended. Many DHSMV offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which reduces wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait one to three hours depending on the office and time of day.
What if I lost my certified copy of my name change document?
Contact the office that issued the document — the county clerk's office for a marriage certificate or divorce decree, or the court that issued a name change order. They can provide a certified copy for a small fee, usually $10 to $25. You'll need this certified copy to update your license.
Can I update my license if it's suspended or revoked?
You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You can update your address or name while your license is suspended, but you cannot receive a new card until the suspension is lifted. Contact the DHSMV to find out the status of your license and what steps are needed to restore it.