How to Get a Florida ID Card: Step-by-Step Process

What You Need to Do to Get a Florida ID Card

A Florida ID card is a state-issued photo identification that does not permit you to drive. You get it from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), either in person at a local driver license office or through their online appointment system. The process takes about 30 minutes in the office, costs $25, and you will walk out with a temporary ID the same day while the permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

You do not need a Florida ID card to live in the state, but you will need one if you want a state photo ID for voting, banking, travel within the US, or age verification. If you already have a valid driver license from any state, you do not need an ID card. If you cannot drive or do not want a driver license, the ID card serves the same purpose for most everyday situations.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DHSMV driver license office in person with your documents; there is no mail-in or online option to complete the full process.
Bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or consular ID), proof of Florida residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number.
The ID card costs $25 and takes 30 minutes to issue; you receive a temporary paper ID when ready and the permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
You can book an appointment online at the DHSMV website to avoid waiting in line, though walk-ins are also accepted at most offices.

Documents You Must Bring to the Office

You need three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Florida residency, and your Social Security number. For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid US passport, an original or certified birth certificate, a consular ID from your country of origin, a valid driver license from another state, or a military ID. The document must show your full legal name and date of birth.

For proof of Florida residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and current Florida address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, or a homeowners insurance policy. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.

You must also provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub that shows your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get an ID card, but you will need to bring additional documents — ask the DHSMV office which ones before you go.

How to Schedule an Appointment Online

Go to the DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov and click the "Appointments" link. Select "ID Card" as the transaction type. Enter your county and choose a nearby driver license office from the list. The system shows you available dates and times for the next several weeks. Pick a slot that works for you and confirm your appointment. You will receive a confirmation number by email.

Appointments are free and typically available within one to three weeks, depending on your location and the time of year. If you cannot find an appointment time that suits you, you can walk into any driver license office without an appointment, but you may wait 30 minutes to two hours during busy times. Offices are usually less crowded on weekday mornings and early afternoons.

What Happens at the Driver License Office

Arrive 10 minutes early with all your documents. A staff member will check your paperwork, verify your identity, and take a digital photo of you for the card. They will ask you to sign a form confirming the information on your ID. The entire process takes about 30 minutes. You will pay $25 by cash, debit card, or credit card at that time.

Before you leave, you will receive a temporary paper ID that is valid for 30 days. This temporary ID works for most purposes — voting, banking, travel within the US — while you wait for your permanent card. Your permanent Florida ID card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DHSMV office where you applied.

If Your Name or Address Has Changed

If you have changed your legal name since your last ID or driver license, bring a certified copy of the court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree that shows the name change. If you have moved to a new address in Florida, your proof of residency document must show the new address. You do not need to renew your ID early just because you moved — you can update your address the next time you renew.

If you are explore for your first Florida ID and your birth certificate or other identity document is from another country, bring the original or a certified copy. If the document is not in English, bring a certified English translation along with the original.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged ID Card

If your Florida ID card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement using the same process: visit a driver license office with your documents and pay $25. You do not need to report it to the police unless you believe it was stolen and used fraudulently. Bring the same proof of identity and residency as you would for a new card. If your card was damaged, bring the damaged card with you so the office can destroy it.

If you lost your temporary paper ID before your permanent card arrived, you can request a replacement at the same office. There is no additional fee if you ask for it within 30 days of your original process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Florida ID card if I am not a US citizen?

Yes. You need a valid passport or consular ID from your country, proof of Florida residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Bring the same documents as a US citizen would, plus your passport or consular ID as your proof of identity.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still get an ID card. Bring your passport or consular ID, proof of residency, and a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number, or bring an ITIN if you have one. Call your local driver license office before you go to confirm which documents they need.

How long does the permanent card take to arrive?

The permanent Florida ID card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your temporary paper ID is valid for 30 days while you wait. If your card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DHSMV office where you applied or call the DHSMV customer service line.

Can I renew my Florida ID card by mail?

No. You must visit a driver license office in person to renew your ID card. You can book an appointment online or walk in. Bring the same documents you brought for your original ID, plus your current ID card if you have it.

What if I moved out of Florida after getting my ID card?

Your Florida ID card remains valid even if you move to another state. You do not need to renew it or notify the DHSMV. If you move back to Florida later, you can continue using the same card until it expires.

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.