How to Renew Your Florida Driver's License

Florida driver's license renewal is done online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office, depending on your age and how long it has been since your last renewal

Florida allows most drivers to renew their license without visiting an office. If you are between 80 and 90 years old, or if your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person. Everyone else can use the online system, mail, or visit a DMV office. The method you choose affects how long the process takes and what documents you need to gather.

Your license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. Florida sends renewal notices by mail about 90 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Florida DMV website takes about 10 minutes and costs $48 for an eight-year license if you have not changed your address or appearance.
Mail renewal requires you to send your current license, a completed process form, and payment to the DMV processing center, and takes about two to three weeks.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if you are 80 or older, if your license expired more than five years ago, or if you need to update your photo or address.
You will need proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days) if you have moved since your last renewal.
Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after approval, whether you renew online, by mail, or in person.

Online renewal through the Florida DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have not changed your address, you do not need a new photo, and you are not between 80 and 90 years old. Go to the official Florida DMV website (flhsmv.gov), select "Renew Your Driver License," and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.

The fee for an eight-year renewal is $48. You can pay by debit card or credit card. Once you submit your process, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to change your address before renewing, you must do that in person or by mail first.

Mail renewal and what to send

Mail renewal works if your license is not expired and you do not need to update your photo or address. Complete the process form HSMV 80051 (available on the Florida DMV website or by calling 1-844-DL-RENEW). Include your current license, a check or money order for $48 made payable to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the completed form. Mail everything to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes about two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your packet. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your current license. Keep a copy of your confirmation or receipt until your new license arrives. If you are moving, do not use mail renewal—update your address in person or online first, or renew in person at your new address.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

You must renew in person if you are 80 or older, if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photo, or if you have changed your address since your last renewal. Bring your current license (or expired license if yours has lapsed), proof of residency if you moved, and payment of $48. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 90 days.

Visit the Florida DMV office locator on flhsmv.gov to find the nearest office and check hours. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to book an appointment online. Processing at the office usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for your permanent card.

Address changes and photo updates

If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must provide proof of your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail—all dated within 90 days of your renewal. If you are renewing online and have moved, you cannot complete the transaction online; you must renew by mail or in person.

If you want a new photo on your license, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person. The office will take your photo at no additional cost. This is also required if you are 80 or older, regardless of whether you want a new photo.

What happens after you submit your renewal

After you submit your renewal—whether online, by mail, or in person—the DMV will process your process and mail your new license to the address on file. This takes 7 to 10 business days. If you renewed in person, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent card.

If you do not receive your new license within two weeks, contact the Florida DMV at 1-844-DL-RENEW. Have your confirmation number or receipt ready. If your license expires before your new one arrives, the temporary paper license or your renewal confirmation is proof that you have a valid license pending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Florida license if it has already expired?

Yes, but the method depends on how long it has been expired. If it expired less than five years ago, you can renew online, by mail, or in person. If it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at a DMV office and may need to retake the written test.

What if I have moved out of state since my last renewal?

You can still renew your Florida license by mail or in person if you provide proof of your new out-of-state address. However, if you now live in another state and plan to stay there, you should consider getting a license from your new state instead.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person at the DMV?

Some Florida DMV offices require appointments, which you can book online through flhsmv.gov. Others accept walk-ins. Check your local office's website or call ahead to confirm their policy before you go.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal change, you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at a DMV office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

How much does a Florida license renewal cost?

A standard eight-year renewal costs $48. If you are 65 or older, you may be able to renew for a longer period at a different rate. Check the Florida DMV website or call 1-844-DL-RENEW for current pricing for your age group.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.