Renewing Your Florida Driver's License: A Guide to Online and In-Person Options

While earning your first driver's license is a major event, keeping that license valid is a responsibility every driver in Florida shares. Licenses don't last forever, and the state requires periodic renewals to ensure your photo and information are current and that you remain a qualified driver.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) will typically mail you a renewal notice as a courtesy. However, it is ultimately your responsibility to know your expiration date and renew on time. This guide will walk you through your options.

When Do You Need to Renew?

A standard Florida Class E driver's license is typically valid for eight years, expiring on your birthday. Your expiration date is clearly printed on the front of your license. Driving with an expired license is illegal and can lead to fines and other penalties, so it's important to take care of your renewal in a timely manner.

Renewal Method 1: Online Renewal with "Go Renew" (The Easiest Option)

For most Florida residents, renewing online is the most convenient way to keep their license current. This allows you to complete the process from home, saving you a trip to a driver license or tax collector office.

Who is Eligible to Renew Online?

You are generally eligible to renew your license online if:

You are renewing a standard Class E license.
Your current license is a REAL ID (with a gold star). If it's not, you must renew in person to get one.
Your renewal notice indicates you are eligible.
Your license is not suspended, revoked, or otherwise canceled.
You do not need to change your name.
Your last renewal was completed in person.

How to Renew Online:

Visit the MyDMV Portal: The official site for online services is the FLHSMV's MyDMV Portal.
Enter Your Information: You will need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to access your record.
Follow the Prompts: The system will walk you through the renewal application process.
Pay the Fee: You will need a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee online. The standard renewal fee is $48.
Receive Your License: Your new license will be mailed to the address the FLHSMV has on file. You will not receive a temporary license, so it's important to renew before your old one expires.

Renewal Method 2: In-Person at a Driver License Office or Tax Collector's Office

An in-person visit is required for certain situations. To avoid long waits, it is strongly recommended that you schedule an appointment online before you go.

When is an In-Person Visit Mandatory?

If you are upgrading to a REAL ID for the first time.
If you need to change your legal name.
If your license has been expired for more than one year.
If you are 80 years of age or older (you must pass a vision test). [7]
If your renewal notice specifically tells you that you must visit an office.

What to Expect and What to Bring:

Your Current Driver's License: This will be your primary form of identification.
Renewal Notice: If you received one, bring it with you.
Documents for a REAL ID: If you are getting your first REAL ID, you must bring the full set of original documents: one proof of identity, one proof of SSN, and two proofs of residency.
Pass a Vision Test: All drivers 80 or older must pass a vision test. However, a vision test can be requested for any driver at the discretion of the examiner. Bring your glasses or contacts if you need them.
Get a New Photo: A new photograph will be taken for your updated license.
Pay the Fee: Be prepared to pay the $48 renewal fee.

What if Your License Has Already Expired?

It is illegal to drive on an expired license. However, you can still renew it.

If your license has been expired for 12 months or less, you can typically renew it in person without penalty, although a late fee may apply.
If your license has been expired for more than 12 months, you cannot simply renew it. You will be required to pass the Class E Knowledge Exam (written test) again before you can be issued a new license.

By staying on top of your expiration date and understanding your renewal options, you can ensure the process is quick, easy, and keeps you legally on the roads of the Sunshine State.