USA Florida Driver License

How to Get a Florida Driver License – Official Guide for 2025

If you’re moving to Florida or applying for a license for the first time, a valid Florida Driver License is required to legally drive. This guide covers how to apply, what documents you need, license types, and everything else you should know in 2025.

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Who Needs a Florida Driver License?

Anyone who becomes a Florida resident and plans to drive must obtain a Florida driver license within 30 days of establishing residency.

Residency is established by:

• Enrolling children in public school
• Accepting employment
• Registering to vote or filing for homestead exemption
• Residing in Florida for more than six consecutive months

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Types of Florida Driver Licenses

• Class E (Standard License) – For everyday passenger vehicles
• Learner’s License – For new drivers age 15+
• Commercial Driver License (CDL) – For commercial vehicles
• Motorcycle Endorsement – For operating motorcycles
• REAL ID – Federally compliant version of the Florida license
• Identification Card – For non-drivers who need state ID

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Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Florida Driver License

1. Schedule an Appointment

Visit flhsmv.gov to locate your nearest FLHSMV office and schedule your appointment.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Florida uses the “Gather Go Get” system. Bring original documents that prove:

• Identity (U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or immigration documents)
• Social Security Number (SSN card, W-2, pay stub with SSN)
• Two proofs of Florida residency (utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement)

Use the FLHSMV document checklist to ensure compliance.

3. Complete the Required Tests

Depending on your experience and license status, you may need to pass:

• Vision screening
• Class E Knowledge Exam (covering road signs, traffic laws)
• Driving Skills Test (unless waived)

First-time drivers must also complete a TLSAE course (Traffic Law & Substance Abuse Education), available online.

4. Pay License Fees

• Learner’s License: $48
• Class E License: $48
• Motorcycle Endorsement: $7
• CDL: $75+ depending on class and endorsements
• Replacement/Update: $25

Fees can vary based on county or service center.

5. Receive Your License

You’ll be issued a temporary paper license. The official Florida driver license card will arrive by mail within 7–10 business days.

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Transferring an Out-of-State License to Florida

New residents must:

• Surrender their valid out-of-state license
• Provide full identification and residency documents
• Pass a vision test (written and driving tests usually waived)
• Pay the standard Class E license fee

Expired or suspended out-of-state licenses may require full testing.

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For International Drivers

Foreign nationals must:

• Provide passport, visa, and I-94 (if applicable)
• Show proof of lawful presence and Florida residency
• Take the vision, knowledge, and driving tests (unless eligible for waivers)

Florida does not accept International Driving Permits for permanent residents — a Florida DL is required.

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Florida’s REAL ID Compliant Licenses

All newly issued Florida licenses are REAL ID-compliant and feature a gold star in the upper right corner.

As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or passport is required for:

• Boarding domestic flights
• Accessing federal buildings
• Entering military bases

Learn more: flhsmv.gov/realid

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Why You Need a Florida Driver License

• Required by law to drive in the state
• Needed to register a vehicle or buy insurance
• Accepted as valid photo identification
• Mandatory for legal residents using a vehicle
• Necessary for federal ID compliance (REAL ID)

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Helpful Tips

• Study the Florida Driver Handbook before testing
• Bring original documents only — no photocopies
• Arrive early for your DMV appointment
• Consider upgrading to REAL ID during your application
• Complete your TLSAE course if applying for the first time

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