How to Renew Your Driver's License in Florida
You need to renew your driver’s license every eight years in Florida. Most people can renew it online for $48-50.
The
Florida
Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) department allows residents to renew their driver’s license
either online or in person. Completing the process online will cost you $50, or you can renew in person at an FLHSMV office for $48. - You must renew your Florida driver’s license every eight years, typically on your birthday.
- Renewal fees start at $48.
- You can renew your license online unless you’re applying for a REAL ID, need to make changes to your license, or used the online option last time you renewed.
- You must renew your Florida driver’s license every eight years, typically on your birthday.
- Renewal fees start at $48.
- You can renew your license online unless you’re applying for a REAL ID, need to make changes to your license, or used the online option last time you renewed.
When to renew your driver’s license in Florida
The expiration date is printed on the front of your license and should land on your birthday.
Early renewals: Florida drivers may
renew their license
as early as 18 months prior to its expiration date, if desired. Otherwise, you can renew it before the date it expires. Late renewals: The renewal fee increases from $48 to $63 with late renewals. If you fail to renew your license for more than a year, you may be required to retake the written portion for the driving exam and complete a vision test—and standard testing fees will apply.
How to renew your driver’s license in Florida
Many—but not all—drivers may renew their Class E Florida driver’s license online.
You cannot renew your driver’s license online in the state of Florida if:
- You used the online option on your last renewal with your current driver license.
- You want to get a new license photo.
- Your name has changed since your last renewal.
- You’re getting a driver’s license for the first time.
- Any of the information on your license needs to be updated.
Renew your license online
If none of the above restrictions are applicable to your situation, you can do an online renewal.
What: Enter your information as instructed and follow the steps to complete the renewal.
How much: $48 standard renewal fee plus a $2 online convenience fee
By entering your email address on the payment confirmation page, you will receive a record of your payment by email. Your new license will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks.
Renew your license in person
If you are ineligible to renew your Class E license online, you will have to visit your local DHSMV (Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) office or service center.
To keep things running smoothly, make sure you show up with all the required documents in hand. The Florida DMV will expect you to adhere to the following documentation requirements:
- Proof of identity: Certified birth certificate, passport, U.S. citizen certificate, or naturalization credential showing your date of birth
- Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2 form or 1099 tax form, or a pay stub displaying your full SSN
- Two proofs of residential address: Utility bill, Florida voter registration card, federally issued mail, your mortgage, or a lease that shows you are a Florida resident
If you changed your name at any point in the past, you must submit the original court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree as verification.
Keep in mind, the name on your proof of Social Security must match the name that will appear on your new identification card. Be sure to allow 24 to 48 hours from the time you report your name change to the Social Security Administration (SSA) before you report the change to the FLHSMV.
How long does it take to renew a Florida driver’s license?
It should take two to three weeks for the driver license office to mail out your renewed license. License holders will receive a temporary paper license meanwhile.
If you have not received your license within the allotted time frame, visit the
FLHSMV contact page
. Click on the county where you live and then call the phone number for your local office. Remember to check that your car insurance is up to date, too.
Driving without car insurance
has serious consequences, in Florida and beyond."I was nervous to buy insurance for my first car because I had heard horror stories about the insurance prices in Florida. After not even two minutes, I found four quotes fromJerryunder $125/month. By the end of the night, I was on the road safe and insured!” —Reuben R.
FAQs
Can I get an extension to renew my license if I am serving in the military?
Yes. If you are out-of-state for military duty, you are eligible for an extension on your Florida driver’s license renewal. Just complete the
military affidavit/application
to confirm your active duty status outside of Florida. You’ll also need a copy of your current military orders.What happens if I lose my license before it’s time to renew?
For a fee of $25, you can apply for a replacement driver’s license online. You’ll need to provide your Social Security number to verify your identity.
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