The Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) oversees driver licensing, vehicle registration, and motor vehicle titles in the state of Florida. Here is an overview of some key services and information:
Forms
The Florida DMV provides many forms for processes like title transfers, registration renewal, applying for a driver license, and more. Common Florida DMV forms include:
- Driver License or ID Card Application (DL-1)
- Vehicle Registration Application (HSMV 82040)
- Request for Copy or Report of a Crash Report (HSMV 90011S)
- Application for Replacement License Plate, Validation Decal or Parking Permit (HSMV 83039)
Download official FL DMV forms from their website to ensure proper completion.
Services
Registration Renewal Florida Department of Motor Vehicles
Florida vehicle registrations must be renewed every 1 or 2 years, based on the type of tag issued. Renewal notices are mailed out approximately 6 weeks prior to expiration.
You can renew your registration in person, by mail, online, by phone, or at a licensed tag agency. Have your plate/tag number, proof of insurance, and mileage ready when renewing.
Appointment Scheduling
The FL DMV offers appointments for select services to reduce wait times. Appointments can be booked online and are available for knowledge tests, driving exams, out-of-state transfers, and more.
Be sure to verify what documents to bring and arrive early for your appointment time. Appointments fill up quickly.
Driver Exam Stations Florida Department of Motor Vehicles
The Florida DMV has over 70 driver license offices statewide that administer required exams. Both knowledge and driving exams are offered on a walk-in basis.
Bring proper ID, glasses if needed, and your completed Application for Driver License (DL-1). Review the Florida Driver’s Handbook prior to testing.
2024 Florida Driver’s Manual
The official Florida Driver’s Handbook covers driving laws, safe driving, licensing, and vehicle registration. The 2024 manual has the latest laws, like the “Move Over” law and texting while driving ban.
Read the handbook carefully before getting your learner’s permit or driver license. Keep it as a reference on Florida traffic laws and defensive driving techniques.
License Renewal Florida Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver licenses in Florida expire every 8 years on your birthday. The DMV will mail you a renewal notice before your expiration date. Make sure your mailing address is up-to-date.
You can renew your FL license online, by mail, or in person. You’ll need to provide updated ID documents and pay the renewal fee. Renew promptly to avoid driving with an expired license.
License Plates
Florida requires all motor vehicles to have valid license plates on both the front and back of the vehicle. Plates come in a standard orange and blue design, but specialty plates are available for an extra fee.
To get plates in Florida, bring the title or registration and proof of insurance to your local tax collector’s office. You can order personalized plates through the FL DMV website.
Contact DMV
Find contact information for your local Florida DMV office on their website. You can also reach their customer service center by calling (850) 617-2000.
Florida DMV hours vary by location, but are typically 8 AM – 5 PM Monday through Friday. Select offices have Saturday hours. Check their website before visiting.
5 Key Florida DMV Questions
1. How do I transfer an out-of-state driver license to Florida?
You must surrender your out-of-state license and apply for a new Florida license within 30 days of becoming a resident. Bring required proof of identity documents.
2. What vehicles require emissions testing in Florida?
Only vehicles registered in Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties need emissions testing done during registration renewal.
3. Can I renew my Florida registration after it expires?
Yes, but late renewals face a $15 late fee added to the registration cost if renewed up to 3 months past expiration. Longer than that incurs additional fees.
4. How much does it cost to replace a lost Florida license plate?
It costs $46.75 to replace one Florida plate and $93.50 total for two lost plates.
5. Is an appointment required for the driving exam?
No, Florida offers driving exams on a walk-in basis. But appointments are suggested to reduce wait times at busy offices.
