What you need to do to get a Florida driver's license
To get a Florida driver's license, you must visit a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and Florida residency. The entire process typically takes several weeks from start to finish, though the office visit itself usually lasts one to three hours depending on how busy the location is.
Florida does not allow you to complete the full licensing process online or by mail. You must appear at a DHSMV office to have your photograph taken, submit original documents, and take the driving test. However, you can complete the written test at certain approved testing locations outside DHSMV offices, which may reduce wait times at the main office.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and Florida residency to your DHSMV office visit.
- The written test covers Florida traffic laws and road signs; you can take it at an DHSMV office or at an approved third-party testing location.
- The driving test is conducted by DHSMV examiners and must be taken at a DHSMV office; you cannot use a third-party testing site for this portion.
- Florida charges a fee for a driver's license that varies by age and license type, and you must pay this fee at the time of your office visit.
- Processing times vary by office location; checking the DHSMV website for your local office's current wait times before you go can save you hours.
Documents you must bring to the DHSMV office
Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves your Social Security number. For identity, Florida accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a certified birth certificate. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a document from the Social Security Administration.
You also need two documents that prove you live in Florida. These can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, homeowner's insurance policy, or a bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Both documents must show your name and current Florida address. If you recently moved, bring the new document plus a signed letter from your landlord or property manager confirming your residency.
Bring your current out-of-state driver's license if you have one. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian and their ID as well. Bring the completed process form (HSMV 80028), which you can read from the DHSMV website or fill out at the office.
The written test: what to study and where to take it
The written test has 50 questions about Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, and what different road signs mean. You have one hour to complete it.
You can take the written test at any DHSMV office, or you can take it at an approved third-party testing location, which may have shorter wait times. Third-party testing sites are private businesses authorized by DHSMV; you can find a list on the DHSMV website by entering your county. Taking the test at a third-party site costs the same as at DHSMV and produces the same result.
To prepare, study the Florida Driver's Handbook, which is free on the DHSMV website. Many people also use practice tests available online through the DHSMV site or through third-party apps. You can retake the written test if you fail, but you must wait one day before your next attempt.
The driving test: scheduling and what the examiner checks
The driving test must be taken at a DHSMV office; you cannot use a third-party testing location for this portion. During the test, an DHSMV examiner sits in your vehicle while you drive a set route in the area around the office. The test typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and responding to road conditions.
The examiner watches for things like proper use of mirrors, smooth acceleration and braking, correct signaling, proper lane changes, and obedience to traffic signs and signals. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current and in the vehicle.
You can schedule your driving test appointment online through the DHSMV website, by phone, or in person at a DHSMV office. Scheduling in advance is strongly recommended because some offices have wait times of several weeks. If you fail the driving test, you must wait one day before you can retake it.
Fees and processing time for your new license
The cost of a Florida driver's license depends on your age and the type of license. A standard four-year license for someone 21 or older costs $48. A six-year license costs $75. Licenses for people under 21 cost less. You pay the fee at the DHSMV office when you complete your visit; cash, debit, and credit cards are accepted at most locations.
After you pass both tests and pay the fee, you receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license card is mailed to your address within one to two weeks. If you do not receive it within three weeks, contact the DHSMV office where you applied.
Wait times at DHSMV offices vary widely by location and time of day. Some offices have wait times of 30 minutes; others may have waits of two to three hours during peak times. The DHSMV website shows current wait times for each office location, updated throughout the day. Going early in the morning on a weekday typically means shorter waits than afternoons or weekends.
If you already have an out-of-state license
If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you are moving to Florida, you can exchange it for a Florida license without retaking the written and driving tests. You still must visit a DHSMV office in person, bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Florida residency, and pay the license fee.
Your out-of-state license will be surrendered when you receive your Florida license. If your out-of-state license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you must pass both the written and driving tests to get a Florida license. The same rule applies if you are moving to Florida from a country outside the United States.
Special situations: under 18, renewals, and name changes
If you are under 18, you must bring a parent or legal guardian to the DHSMV office. The parent or guardian must provide their own ID and sign the process. Minors in Florida are also subject to a graduated licensing system: a learner's permit comes first, followed by a restricted license, then a full license. Each stage has different rules about when and where you can drive.
If you are renewing an existing Florida license, you do not need to retake the tests unless your license has been expired for more than five years. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a DHSMV office, depending on your situation. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document showing the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test before I visit the DHSMV office?
Yes. You can take the written test at a DHSMV office or at an approved third-party testing location before you schedule your driving test. Once you pass the written test, you can schedule the driving test at a DHSMV office. This approach can reduce your total time at the DHSMV office.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test after waiting one day. You do not need to retake the written test unless it has expired. You must bring the same documents and vehicle, pay the test fee again, and schedule a new appointment. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.
How long is a Florida driver's license valid?
A standard Florida driver's license is valid for four or six years, depending on which type you choose at the time of issue. Licenses for people under 21 are valid for four years. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires.
Do I need to take a vision test?
Yes. As part of your DHSMV office visit, you will take a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, you must wear them during the vision test and during your driving test. If you fail the vision screening, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a vision report to the DHSMV office.
Can I get a Florida license if I have an out-of-state suspension or revocation?
No. Florida will not issue a license if you have an active suspension or revocation in any state. You must resolve the issue in the state where it occurred before you can get a Florida license. Contact the DHSMV office in that state to find out how to clear the suspension or revocation.