How to Get a Driver's License in Florida

Getting Your Florida Driver's License

To get a driver's license in Florida, you need to pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity and residency. The process takes place at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, which Florida calls the Driver License Office. Most people complete the written test on their first visit, then schedule a separate appointment for the driving test within a few weeks.

You cannot take the driving test on the same day as your written test — Florida requires at least one business day between them. The entire process from start to finish usually takes four to six weeks if you schedule efficiently and pass both tests on your first attempt.

Key Takeaways

You must bring a valid passport, birth certificate, or state ID, plus two documents showing your current Florida address, such as a utility bill or lease.
The written test covers Florida traffic laws and road signs and is offered in multiple languages at most Driver License Offices.
You schedule the driving test separately after passing the written test, and you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and has working safety equipment.
The written test costs $7 and the driving test costs $7; a new license costs $48 for an eight-year license or $75 for a Real ID-compliant license.
If you fail either test, you can retake it the next business day at most locations, though some offices have longer wait times.

Documents You Need to Bring

Florida requires one document proving your identity and one proving your Social Security number, plus two documents showing your current address in Florida. A valid U.S. passport works for both identity and Social Security proof. If you do not have a passport, bring your birth certificate (identity) and Social Security card (Social Security proof), or a state ID from another state plus your Social Security card.

For proof of Florida residency, bring two documents dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A driver's license from another state does not count as Florida residency proof. If you live with someone else and are not on the lease or utility bill, bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on those documents, plus one document with your name on it (such as a bank statement or insurance policy).

Bring the originals of all documents — photocopies are not accepted. If any document is not in English, bring the original plus an official English translation.

Passing the Written Test

The written test has 50 questions about Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English, Spanish, Creole, and several other languages at most Driver License Offices — call ahead to confirm your language is available at your location.

You can study for free using the official Florida Driver Handbook, available as a PDF on the Florida DMV website or in print at any Driver License Office. The handbook covers everything on the test. Most people spend two to four hours studying before taking the test. You are allowed to take notes during your study time, but not during the test itself.

The test is taken on a computer at the Driver License Office. You will sit at a terminal and answer questions one at a time. The results appear when ready after you finish. If you pass, you move forward to scheduling your driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test the next business day at most locations, though some offices require a longer wait.

Scheduling and Taking the Driving Test

After you pass the written test, a staff member will help you schedule your driving test. Most Driver License Offices book appointments two to four weeks in advance, though some locations have longer waits during busy seasons. You can also schedule online through the Florida DMV website if your location offers online scheduling.

On the day of your driving test, bring your written test receipt, your current out-of-state driver's license (if you have one), and proof of insurance for the vehicle you will use. The vehicle must be registered in Florida, have valid tags, and have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, windshield wipers, and mirrors. The examiner will check these items before the test begins.

The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers such as parking, turning, stopping, and merging. You must follow all traffic laws and obey all traffic signals. Common reasons people fail include rolling through stop signs, failing to signal, and hitting the curb while parking. If you pass, you will receive a temporary license on the spot, valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you.

Costs and License Types

The written test costs $7 and the driving test costs $7. A standard eight-year driver's license costs $48. A Real ID-compliant license, which meets federal requirements for air travel and federal building access, costs $75. Both types are valid for eight years.

If you are under 18, the license is valid for five years and costs less, but you will have restrictions on when you can drive and how many passengers you can have. Ask the staff at your Driver License Office about the specific restrictions for your age.

You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at most Driver License Offices. Some locations do not accept cash, so call ahead if you plan to pay in cash.

What Happens After You Pass

After you pass the driving test, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address you provided at your Driver License Office. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during busy periods.

If your permanent license does not arrive within 15 business days, contact the Driver License Office where you took your test. They can check the status and reissue the license if it was lost in the mail. Do not drive after your temporary license expires unless you have proof that you requested a replacement.

Once you receive your permanent license, keep it with you whenever you drive. Florida law requires you to show your license to a police officer if you are stopped while driving.

If You Already Have a License from Another State

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and move to Florida, you can exchange it for a Florida license without retaking the written or driving tests. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Florida residency (two documents dated within the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number. The exchange costs $48 for a standard license or $75 for a Real ID license.

Your out-of-state license will be taken and destroyed during the exchange. You will receive a temporary Florida license on the spot and your permanent license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If your out-of-state license is expired, you will need to take the written and driving tests instead of exchanging it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online from home?

No. Florida requires you to take the written test in person at a Driver License Office so staff can verify your identity. You must also pay the $7 test fee in person. However, you can study online using the official Florida Driver Handbook PDF on the DMV website.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test the next business day at most Driver License Offices, though some locations have longer waits. You do not need to retake the written test. Each driving test attempt costs $7. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Do I need a Real ID license or can I get a standard license?

A standard license is fine for driving in Florida. A Real ID license is required only if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 2025. If you are unsure, a standard license is cheaper and works for all driving purposes.

How long does it take to get my permanent license in the mail?

Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you pass your driving test. During busy periods or holidays, it can take up to 15 business days. Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days, so you have time to receive your permanent license before it expires.

What if I move to a different address after I get my license?

You must update your address with the Florida DMV within 30 days of moving. You can do this online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a Driver License Office. There is no fee to update your address.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.