Bring These Documents to the DMV
To renew your Florida driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current license. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) requires specific documents — not just any ID or bill. Bringing the wrong papers means a trip back home and a wasted visit.
You do not need all the documents listed below. You need one from the identity section, one from the residency section, and your current license. The sections tell you which single document satisfies each requirement.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring one proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), one proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your current Florida driver's license.
- A utility bill, bank statement, or mortgage statement counts as proof of residency; a piece of mail addressed to you at your current address does not.
- If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the legal change.
- You can renew by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, which means you may not need to visit a DHSMV office at all.
- Your current license must be valid or expired no more than six months before you explore; if it is older than that, you must renew in person.
Proof of Identity Documents
Bring one document from this list. It must show your name and date of birth. A photocopy is not acceptable — bring the original.
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Birth certificate (original or certified copy)
- Certificate of naturalization or U.S. citizenship
- Consular report of birth abroad
- Valid military ID (active duty or retired)
- Tribal ID card (federally recognized tribe)
If you do not have any of these documents, you can use a combination: a Social Security card plus a school ID, work ID, or other government-issued photo ID. The combination must show your name and date of birth between the two documents.
Proof of Residency Documents
Bring one document from this list. It must show your current Florida address and be dated within 90 days of your visit to the DHSMV office. A piece of mail with your name and address is not enough — the document must be an official record.
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Bank or credit union statement
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Lease agreement or rental agreement
- Homeowners or renters insurance policy
- Pay stub from your employer
- Florida vehicle registration
- Proof of Florida residency from a government agency (such as a letter from the Department of Children and Families)
If you live with someone else and are not on the utility bill or lease, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a document showing that person's residency. The affidavit must state that you live at that address.
Name Change Documents
If your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring the document that shows the legal change. The DHSMV will not update your name without it.
- Marriage certificate (certified copy)
- Divorce decree or dissolution of marriage order
- Court order for name change
- Adoption decree
If you were married outside the United States, bring the original marriage certificate plus an English translation certified by a translator. The DHSMV will keep the translation on file.
When You Can Renew by Mail or Online
If your current license is valid or expired less than six months ago, you may not need to visit a DHSMV office. Florida allows online renewal through the DHSMV website if you meet all these conditions: your license is not suspended or revoked, you have no medical restrictions, your address has not changed, and your name has not changed. You will need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
If you do not meet the online requirements, you can renew by mail. You will need to send your current license, a completed process form (HSMV 80039), and a check or money order for the renewal fee. Mail everything to the address on the DHSMV website. This takes longer than an office visit — typically two to three weeks — so plan ahead if your license is close to expiring.
What Happens at the DHSMV Office
Bring all your documents to a DHSMV office during business hours. You will fill out an process form (HSMV 80039) at the office or bring one you have already completed. A staff member will check your documents, take a new photo, and process your renewal. Bring your Social Security number or card — the office will verify it.
Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need the license sooner, some offices offer rush service for an additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than six months ago?
No, you must renew in person at a DHSMV office. You cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been expired for more than six months. Bring all the same documents you would for a standard renewal.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead. If you have none of these, contact the DHSMV to ask about other options — you may be able to use a combination of documents or request an exception.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card?
You do not have to bring it, but it makes the process faster. The DHSMV will verify your Social Security number either way. If you do not bring the card, have your number memorized or written down.
My address changed — can I still renew online?
No. If your address has changed, you must renew in person at a DHSMV office. Bring your proof of residency showing your new address along with your other documents.
How much does a renewal cost?
The fee varies depending on how long your new license is valid for. Check the DHSMV website or call your local office for the current fee. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the office.