Florida License Renewal at a Glance
How to Renew Your Driver's License in Florida
You renew your license through the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Your license is good for 8 years. It expires on your birthday in year eight. For a general overview of renewal rules across all states, see our driver's license renewal guide. Here are your options and steps.
Ways to Renew
- Online — the fastest way to renew. Visit the FLHSMV renewal portal.
- In person — go to a FLHSMV office. First-time REAL ID, vision tests, and new photos all need an in-person visit.
- Self-service kiosk — use a kiosk at select FLHSMV offices. Fast and easy.
Steps to Renew
- Check your renewal eligibility — Go to the FLHSMV website or GoRenew portal. See if you can renew online.
- Get a vision test if needed — Visit an eye doctor for a vision test. Get a signed form to send with your renewal.
- Complete the form — Log in to the FLHSMV Virtual Office. Check your info and submit your renewal.
- Pay the renewal fee — Pay the $48 fee by credit or debit card. Add $15 if late.
- Receive your new license — Print your temp license from the portal. Your card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Florida Driver's License Renewal Fees
| Standard renewal fee | $48 |
| Late fee | $15 |
| Duplicate/replacement license | $25 |
| Motorcycle endorsement | $48 (included with renewal) |
| Name change | $25 |
| Late renewal fee | $15 |
| Kiosk convenience fee | $3 |
| Valid for | 8 years |
A Class E license costs $48. A $15 late fee applies after expiry. A replacement costs $25.
What to Bring
Bring these docs when you renew:
- Current or expired Florida driver's license
- Social Security number
- Proof of ID (for REAL ID: birth certificate or passport)
- Two proofs of FL address (for REAL ID)
- Renewal fee payment
Who Can Renew Online
You can renew online if you meet these rules:
- Your license is not expired more than 12 months
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Your license is not suspended or revoked
- You do not need a vision test this cycle
- You are not getting a REAL ID for the first time
Go in person at least every other renewal. You need a vision test and new photo.
Go to FLHSMV online renewal portalWhat Happens If Your Florida License Expires
Florida lets you renew up to 12 months after expiry. After 12 months, it becomes delinquent. You need extra steps.
- Before expiry — Up to 18 months before expiration
- After expiry — Up to 12 months after expiry with a $15 late fee
- Long-lapsed penalty — Expired 12+ months: you need a new vision test. You may also need a written exam. Expired 4+ years: you must also take the driving skills test.
If you also need to update your vehicle registration, see our car registration renewal guide.
Important: You cannot drive with an expired license in Florida. The window only affects how you renew. It does not let you drive past your expiry date.
Vision Test & Health Rules
- Vision test — Yes, at every other in-person renewal. You can bring results from an eye doctor.
- In-person visits — Go in person at least every other renewal. You need a vision test and new photo.
- Wait time — Online renewals take 3 to 5 business days. Your new card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Common Florida License Renewal Mistakes
Watch out for these mistakes:
Missing the 12-month post-expiration window
You can renew up to 12 months late with just a $15 fee. After 12 months, you retake tests as a new applicant. That takes much more time and money.
Not using the GoRenew kiosk option
Kiosks are at tax collector offices and shopping centers. Renew in minutes for a $3 fee. Many drivers wait in long lines when a kiosk would be faster.
Overlooking the senior renewal period change
Drivers 80+ get a 6-year license, not 8 years. They must pass a vision test each time. Plan ahead for the shorter cycle.
Assuming online renewal covers REAL ID
First-time REAL ID upgrades must be done in person. Bring your ID docs to a FLHSMV office. Online renewal only works if you already have a REAL ID.
REAL ID Info for Florida
Florida has issued REAL ID since 2010. A gold star means you have it. First-time upgrades need an in-person visit with ID docs.
You need a REAL ID (gold star) to board U.S. flights. You also need one to enter federal buildings. This started May 7, 2025. Get one at your next in-person visit. See our full REAL ID deadline guide for costs and next steps.
Senior & Age Rules
Drivers 80 and older must renew in person every 6 years. They must pass a vision test each time.
What Makes Florida Different
You can renew up to 18 months early. That is one of the widest windows in the U.S.
Some tax collector offices have kiosks for fast renewals.
A $15 late fee applies after expiry. You still have 12 months to renew without retaking exams.