What you need to bring to the DMV
Florida's Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) requires you to bring specific documents in person to get your first driver's license. You cannot complete this by mail or online. Bring your original or certified birth certificate, a Social Security card or document showing your number, and proof of your current Florida address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days works.
You will also need a valid passport, passport card, or state ID from another state if you have one. If you do not have a passport, bring a certified copy of your birth certificate instead. Bring your completed process form (DHSMV Form HSMV 82053), which you can fill out at home or at the office.
If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They must bring their own ID and sign your process in person. If you changed your name, bring the court order or marriage certificate that shows the change.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Florida DHSMV office in person with your birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of address, and completed process form.
- If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you and sign your process.
- The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving rules; you can study using the official Florida Driver's Handbook.
- The road test requires you to demonstrate basic vehicle control and obey traffic laws; bring a vehicle that is registered and insured.
- Your first Florida license is valid for eight years if you are 18 or older, or until age 18 if you are younger.
The written test and what it covers
Before you take the road test, you must pass a written knowledge test at the DHSMV office. The test has 50 questions about Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages.
Study the official Florida Driver's Handbook, which is free and available on the DHSMV website. It covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, pedestrian safety, and what different road signs mean. Many people study the handbook for a few days before taking the test. You can retake the test if you do not pass, but you must wait one day between attempts.
The road test requirements and what happens during it
After you pass the written test, you schedule a road test at a DHSMV office. During the test, an examiner sits in your vehicle while you drive. You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Florida, has valid insurance, and is in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors.
The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, pulling into traffic, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. You must obey all traffic laws and road signs. The test usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes. You pass if you do not make any major errors — things like running a red light, hitting a curb, or failing to signal. Minor mistakes like slightly jerky stops are usually allowed.
If you do not pass, you can retake the road test. There is a waiting period between attempts, which varies by office. Ask the examiner or call your local DHSMV office to find out how long you must wait.
Fees and how long the process takes
The fee for a Florida driver's license depends on how long you want it to be valid. An eight-year license costs $75 if you are 18 or older. If you are under 18, a license valid until age 18 costs $45. You pay this fee at the DHSMV office when you explore.
The entire process — from your first visit through passing both tests — usually takes several weeks. Your written test can happen on your first visit if you bring all required documents. The road test is scheduled for a later date, which depends on how busy your local office is. Some offices have openings within a week; others may take several weeks. Call ahead or check the DHSMV website to see wait times in your area.
Your temporary license is issued on the spot after you pass both tests. Your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Restrictions if you are under 18
Florida issues a different type of license to drivers under 18, called a Learner's Permit or Restricted License, depending on your age and driving experience. If you are 15 or 16, you first get a Learner's Permit, which requires a parent or guardian to be in the vehicle while you drive. You must hold this permit for at least one month before you can take the road test for a Restricted License.
A Restricted License for drivers under 18 has rules: you cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless you are driving to work, school, or a medical appointment. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. You can have only one passenger under 20 years old in the car unless a parent is present. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18.
What to do if you fail the road test
If you do not pass the road test, the examiner will tell you which tasks you did not perform correctly. Common reasons for failing include not checking mirrors before turning, not stopping completely at a stop sign, hitting a curb while parking, or not signaling before changing lanes. You can retake the test after waiting the required time — usually one to five business days, depending on your office.
Before your next attempt, practice the specific skills the examiner mentioned. Many people take a few driving lessons with an instructor to work on weak areas. You do not have to retake the written test if you already passed it — you only need to pass the road test again.
Replacing a lost or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged before it arrives, contact your local DHSMV office right away. Bring your temporary license and proof of your identity. You can request a replacement, which costs $25. The replacement license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If your license arrives and you lose it later, the same process applies.
If your license is suspended or revoked for any reason — unpaid traffic tickets, too many points, or a DUI — you cannot drive legally in Florida. You must resolve the issue with the DHSMV before you can get your license back. Call your local office or check the DHSMV website to find out what you need to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online or by mail?
No. You must take both the written test and the road test in person at a Florida DHSMV office. You cannot complete either test remotely.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it after waiting one day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Keep studying the Florida Driver's Handbook and try again.
Do I need to take a driver's education course?
Not if you are 18 or older. If you are under 18, you must complete a driver's education course before you can get your Learner's Permit. The course is offered online and in person by approved schools.
How long is my license valid?
If you are 18 or older, your license is valid for eight years. If you are under 18, it is valid until your 18th birthday. After that, you can renew it for an eight-year period.
What if I move to Florida from another state?
You can drive on your out-of-state license for a limited time, but you must get a Florida license within a certain period. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of address, and your Social Security card to the DHSMV office. You will not have to retake the written or road test if your out-of-state license is valid.