Miami-Dade County Driver's License Service Locations
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) runs the driver's license offices in Miami. The main service center is located at 11860 SW 26th Street, Miami, FL 33175, and it handles renewals, replacements, and new license applications. This location is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with limited Saturday hours that change seasonally.
A second location operates at 3001 NW 87th Avenue, Miami, FL 33172, also with standard weekday hours. Both offices serve the same functions, so you can visit whichever is more convenient. Neither location requires an appointment for most transactions, but wait times vary by time of day and day of week — early mornings and mid-week visits typically have shorter lines.
Before you go, check the DHSMV website or call 1-844-DL-FLORIDA (1-844-335-3567) to confirm current hours, as holiday schedules and staffing changes can affect availability. The phone line can also tell you which documents you need for your specific transaction.
Key Takeaways
- Miami has two main DHSMV service centers: one at 11860 SW 26th Street and one at 3001 NW 87th Avenue, both open weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- You do not need an appointment for most driver's license transactions, but arriving early or mid-week reduces wait times.
- Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN for renewals and new applications.
- The DHSMV phone line 1-844-335-3567 can confirm hours and tell you exactly which documents you need before you visit.
- Florida allows online renewal for some license types, which you can check on the DHSMV website before visiting in person.
What Documents to Bring
Florida requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number (or ITIN if you do not have one) for any new or renewed driver's license. Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous Florida driver's license. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can bring a combination of other documents — the DHSMV website lists all acceptable combinations.
Proof of residency must show your current Miami address. Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you recently moved, bring both your old and new address documents.
If you are renewing an existing license and have not changed your name or address, you may be able to renew online or by mail instead of visiting in person. Check the DHSMV website to see if your situation qualifies.
Renewal, Replacement, and New License Transactions
A renewal is what you do when your current license is still valid but approaching expiration. Florida licenses are valid for eight years. You can renew up to one year before expiration. If you have not had any address or name changes, you may renew online at the DHSMV website without visiting a service center.
A replacement is what you do if your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. You will need to bring the same identity and residency documents as a renewal, plus a police report if your license was stolen. The replacement fee is lower than a renewal fee.
A new license is required if you are getting a Florida license for the first time, moving to Florida from another state, or if your license has been suspended or revoked. New licenses require an eye exam at the service center, a written test, and a driving test in some cases. Bring all required documents and plan for a longer visit.
Fees and Payment Methods
Renewal fees, replacement fees, and new license fees vary depending on the license type and how long you want it valid. A standard eight-year renewal costs less than a new license. The DHSMV website lists current fees, which change periodically.
Miami service centers accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some locations may have ATMs on-site, but do not count on it — bring cash or a card to be safe. If you are paying by check or money order, ask the staff whether your location accepts it before you visit.
If you cannot afford the fee, contact the DHSMV directly to ask about fee waivers or payment plans. These are rare but do exist in some circumstances.
Online and Mail Renewal Options
Florida allows you to renew your driver's license online if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be suspended or revoked, you must not have any medical restrictions, and you must not need to change your address or name. You can check your may be able to access on the DHSMV website and complete the renewal there if you may have access to.
Online renewal takes a few minutes and costs the same as in-person renewal. Your new license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. This is the fastest option if you are may be able to access.
Mail renewal is also available for some situations. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires — follow the instructions on that notice. Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal, typically 2 to 3 weeks.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you arrive at a Miami service center, check in at the front desk and give them your documents. You will receive a number and wait to be called. The wait can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day and how busy the office is.
When you are called, a staff member will review your documents, verify your information, and take a new photo for your license. If you are getting a new license (not a renewal), you will also take an eye exam and a written test at the office. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them for driving.
After your transaction is complete, your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license that you can use while you wait for the plastic card.
Handling Name or Address Changes
If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, you must bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot change your name at the service center without this document.
If you have moved to a new address in Miami, bring proof of your new address along with your old license. The service center will update your address during your visit, and your new license will reflect it.
If you have moved out of Miami but still live in Florida, you can visit any DHSMV service center in the state. If you have moved out of Florida entirely, you will need to get a license from your new state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than a year?
No. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must explore for a new license rather than a renewal. This requires an eye exam, a written test, and sometimes a driving test. You will need to visit a service center in person.
Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?
Most transactions do not require an appointment — you can walk in during business hours. However, some service centers may offer appointment slots during busy times. Call 1-844-335-3567 to ask whether your location has appointments available.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of your ITIN, such as a tax return or letter from the IRS. The service center staff can tell you what documents they accept.
How long does it take to get my new license after my visit?
Your plastic license card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the service center that you can use when ready for driving.
What if I need my license for a specific date?
If you need your license by a certain date, plan your visit well in advance. Online renewal is fastest if you are may be able to access. If you must visit in person, go early in the week and early in the day to minimize wait times. The temporary paper license is valid for driving while you wait for the plastic card.