What You Need to Get a Florida ID
A Florida ID is a state-issued photo identification card that proves who you are. Unlike a driver's license, it does not let you drive — it is purely for identification. You get it from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), either in person at a local office or through the mail if you are renewing.
To get a Florida ID in person, bring proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The exact documents depend on whether you are a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or here on a visa. DHSMV publishes a full list of acceptable documents on its website under "REAL ID Documents" — that page shows what counts as proof for each category.
The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and the card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The fee is $25 for a standard ID card that lasts eight years.
Key Takeaways
- You need one document proving who you are, one proving your Social Security number, and one showing your current address — the exact documents depend on your citizenship status.
- Go to a DHSMV office in person, bring originals (not copies), and the card will arrive by mail within a week or two.
- A Florida ID costs $25 and is valid for eight years, but you can renew by mail without visiting an office.
- If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get an ID using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
Documents You Need to Bring
Bring the originals — not copies — of three documents: one for identity, one for your Social Security number, and one for your address. DHSMV will not accept photocopies or digital images on a phone.
For identity, acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a passport card, a birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of naturalization. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card. If you are on a visa, bring your passport and the visa itself.
For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you have an ITIN instead of a Social Security number, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS.
For your address, bring a utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government check. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.
How to Find and Visit a DHSMV Office
DHSMV runs about 70 offices across Florida. You can find the one nearest you on the DHSMV website by entering your county or city. Each office has its own hours — most are open Monday through Friday, but some also open on Saturday mornings.
You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online reservation system. Check your local office's page to see whether you can reserve a time slot or whether it is first-come, first-served. If your office uses reservations, booking ahead can cut your wait time.
Arrive early in the day if you can. Mid-morning and early afternoon tend to be busier. Bring all three documents and your completed process form — you can fill it out at home or at the office.
The process Form and What Happens Next
The form you need is the process for Florida Identification Card, also called Form HSMV 82101. You can read it from the DHSMV website and fill it out before you go, or you can fill it out at the office. Filling it out ahead saves time.
At the office, a staff member will check your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. They will give you a receipt with a confirmation number. Your ID card will be mailed to the address you provided on the form.
Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need the card faster, DHSMV offers expedited delivery for an extra $15 — that brings it to 3 to 5 business days. You cannot pick up the card in person; it must be mailed.
Renewing Your Florida ID by Mail
If your ID is expiring or expired, you can renew it by mail without visiting an office. You are may be able to access to renew by mail if your ID is not damaged, you have not changed your name, and you still live in Florida.
Send your expiring or expired ID card, a completed renewal form (Form HSMV 82101), and a check or money order for $25 to the address listed on the DHSMV website. Include a copy of proof of your current address if you have moved since your last ID.
Mail renewal takes about three weeks. If you need it faster, go to an office in person instead — that is the only way to get expedited service.
What to Do If You Do Not Have a Social Security Number
You can get a Florida ID using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is issued by the IRS to people who file taxes but are not may be able to access for a Social Security number.
Bring your ITIN letter from the IRS as proof of your tax identification number. You still need proof of identity and proof of your current address — the rules are the same as for anyone else.
If you do not have an ITIN and do not have a Social Security number, contact DHSMV directly to ask what documents you can use instead. Some situations may require a letter from a government agency or a notarized statement.
Replacing a Lost or Damaged ID
If your ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DHSMV office. Bring proof of identity and proof of your address — you do not need to bring your Social Security documents again because DHSMV already has that information on file.
A replacement costs $25, the same as a new ID. It takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail, or 3 to 5 days with expedited service for an extra $15.
If your ID was stolen, you may want to report it to local police or file a report with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, though this is not required to get a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Florida ID if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Permanent residents can use a green card as proof of identity. People on valid visas can use a passport and visa. You still need proof of a Social Security number or ITIN and proof of your Florida address. DHSMV does not check immigration status — it only checks that your documents are valid.
What if I do not have a current address or I am homeless?
You can use a shelter address, a mail forwarding address, or the address of a friend or family member where you receive mail. Bring a document showing that address dated within the last 60 days. If you use someone else's address, bring a letter from that person on their letterhead saying you live there, along with a utility bill or lease in their name.
How long does a Florida ID last?
A Florida ID is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. You can renew it by mail starting 180 days before it expires, or you can wait until it expires and renew after. There is no penalty for renewing late.
Can I change my name on my ID without getting a new one?
No. If your name has changed, you must get a new ID. Bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change, along with your current ID and the other standard documents. The fee is $25.
What if I lost my Social Security card and cannot find it?
You do not need the physical card. Bring any other document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2, a 1099, a tax return, or a bank statement. If you have none of those, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number.