A license has to be kept up to date. Moves, name changes, lost cards and expiration dates all have their own rules, and some mistakes cost you a fee or a ticket.
To get a new license after changing your mailing or residential address
Handbook p. 20 ↗Know the rule
Change your address on MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov or at a license service center or tax collector's office. Destroy the old license afterward, as Florida law requires.
Handbook p. 20 ↗Know the rule
If the address on your license is wrong when police stop you, you can be cited. You may also miss renewal notices and notices of possible sanctions.
Handbook p. 20 ↗To change your name on your license:
- Bring an original or certified marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order
- Change your name on your Social Security card first
- Immigrants and non-immigrants: change it on your USCIS documents first
- Canadian citizens: change it on your Canadian passport first
Know the rule
If your license or ID is lost or stolen, replace it right away, online or at a service center. If it was stolen and you show a police report in person, the fee is waived as long as you change nothing on the card.
Handbook p. 21 ↗How long a Class E driver license is valid
Handbook p. 21 ↗Your license may not be renewed if:
- You are not eligible for a license
- You didn't answer a summons for a traffic violation
- Your license is suspended, revoked or canceled
- You don't bring the required documents
You can't renew online if:
- Your last renewal was by phone, mail or online
- You are not a US citizen or permanent resident
- Your privilege is suspended, revoked or canceled and you want an ID card
Know the rule
Renewing after the license expires (midnight of your birthday) costs a $15 late fee.
Handbook p. 22 ↗Know the rule
Drivers 80 or older must pass a vision exam to renew. It can be done free at a service center or by your doctor or optometrist, who files Form HSMV 72119.
Handbook p. 22 ↗Common license fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Original license, learner's, or Class E renewal | $48 |
| Replacement license, or any ID card | $25 |
| Late renewal (delinquent) | $15 |
| Knowledge re-test / driving skills re-test | $10 / $20 |
| Reinstatement after suspension / revocation | $45 / $75 |
Know the rule
Honorably discharged veterans with a 100% service-connected disability don't pay certain license fees, such as initial and renewal fees, and pay no ID card fees at all.
Handbook p. 23 ↗Put it into practice
You moved across town last week. You have 30 days to update your license address. Do it online at MyDMVPortal, then destroy the old card when the new one arrives.