How to Renew Your Florida Driver’s License: A Complete Guide
Why You Can Trust EverQuote
EverQuote powers millions of shopper requests every month, teaming up with industry-leading insurance specialists to address real-world challenges faced by people every day. We partner with the largest insurance providers in the nation, and our content is carefully crafted by experts and reviewed by licensed insurance agents for accuracy and relevance.
Florida driver’s license renewal happens every eight years for Florida residents. If you are looking to renew your license online or in person and find the latest information on document requirements, identification cards, license applications, and testing requirements, this guide is for you.
Understanding Florida Driver's License Renewal Requirements
Driver's license renewal in Florida is a relatively straightforward process. You can renew every eight years and up to 18 months ahead of your license's expiration date. You will need to provide:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security
- Proof of address
If your license was lost or stolen or if you have moved or changed your name, then you can and should renew your driver's license ahead of the expiration date.
If you are 80 or older, you must pass a vision test to renew your license. Finally, if you are a member of the military and are deployed outside Florida, you are encouraged to renew your license ahead of the deployment, if possible, and can do so up to 18 months early. You also have the ability to renew online or up to 90 days after you return home or are discharged.
Documents Needed for a Smooth Renewal Process
When you bring all of the required legal identification documents, your renewal process will be that much easier.
The documents for proof include the following items:
Original documents that show your identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
Your Social Security card or a W-2 form
Documents vouching for your address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage bill
The REAL ID Act states that you won't need to provide these documents again unless you have a name or address change.
Exploring Renewal Options: Online, In-Person, or by Mail
You can choose to renew your driver's license in Florida online, in person, or by mail.
You can renew online every other time. Visit MyDMVPortal to determine eligibility and to complete the online renewal process. The online replacement process makes it easy to get a new driver's license.
To renew your license or motor vehicle registration in person, you can make an appointment to visit a Florida motor vehicles service center.
If you receive a card confirming your eligibility to renew by mail, you can return the form to the Division of Motorist Services, 2900 Apalachee Pkwy., MS92, Tallahassee, FL, 32399.
Costs and Fees for Florida Driver's License Renewal
Here are the fees for renewing your Florida driver's license:
Driver's license renewal for most drivers (Class E): $48
Commercial driver's license renewal: $75
Replacement driver's license: $25
Late fee: $15
Common Scenarios and How to Handle Them
If you have questions about renewing an expired license, updating personal information, or replacing a lost or stolen driver's license, we have answers!
Renewing an expired license: If your driver's license has already expired, you can still renew it for up to 12 months without having to retake the written or road tests. You will need to pay a $15 late fee in addition to other fees. Your can renew an expired license online or in the office.
Updating personal information: If you have moved, changed your name, or updated any other personal information, you will need to provide proof of change of address or name. You must update your Social Security card with your name change before getting a new driver's license. You can bring these documents to a service center.
If your license is lost or stolen, you can renew it online or in person. If the license is stolen, you should first file a police report. You will still need to provide proof of identity and proof of Florida residential address.
Avoiding Delays and Mistakes in the Renewal Process
If you can avoid delays and mistakes while renewing your Florida driver's license, the process will take less time and cost less. Here are a few tips for staying ahead of the game:
Start early. Don't wait until the week before your driver's license is going to expire. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to start the renewal process at least three months early.
Renew online, if possible. This is the fastest renewal option and makes it easy to renew your license in just minutes.
Ask. If you have questions or concerns, contact your local motor vehicles service center. They are the experts!
Get all your documents in order. If you think you might need something, bring it!
FLHSMV Resources
The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department is your best friend when it comes to renewing your license. This site will provide information on renewal and replacement and answer common questions.
Renew Your Florida Driver's License and Maximize Car Insurance Savings
When you renew your Florida driver's license, it is the perfect time to maximize car insurance savings and do a Florida driver's license status check. When you compare auto insurance prices online, you can ensure you are getting everything you need and nothing you don't, securing your driving record and maintaining driving privileges for years to come. Visit EverQuote to find affordable car insurance and get free custom quotes.