Replacing a Lost or Stolen Florida Driver License
Losing your Florida driver license or having it stolen can be stressful, but the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) offers several convenient options for replacement. Whether you prefer to handle it online or in person, it's essential to act quickly to minimize risks like identity theft and to stay legally compliant on the road.
Immediate Steps After Losing Your License
If you believe your license was stolen, you should file a police report with your local law enforcement agency. Although not required by the FLHSMV, having a report on file helps protect you in case of identity fraud and can assist in expediting your replacement request.
How to Replace Your License
Online Replacement
You can replace your license online through the MyDMV Portal. This is the fastest and most convenient method, especially if your license was not physically damaged or expired.
To qualify for online replacement, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have no pending suspensions or revocations
- Have your Social Security Number on file
- Provide your current residential address
The online system will guide you through payment and verification steps. A replacement license is mailed within 7–10 business days.
In-Person Replacement
If you're ineligible for online replacement or prefer personal assistance, visit a local FLHSMV office or an authorized tax collector agency. Be sure to schedule an appointment in advance where required.
You must bring:
- One form of primary identification (such as a birth certificate or valid passport)
- Proof of Social Security number (like a Social Security card or W-2)
- Two proofs of residential address
For a full list of acceptable documents, check out What to Bring for Your Florida Driver License Appointment.
Replacement Fees
As of 2025, the standard fee for a replacement Florida driver license is $25. If you opt for an in-person transaction, there may be an additional $6.25 service fee charged by tax collector offices. For a detailed fee breakdown, refer to Florida DMV Fees: What You Need to Know.
REAL ID Considerations
If your current license was a REAL ID-compliant license (marked with a gold star), your replacement will maintain that status as long as your documents are verified. If not, upgrading to a REAL ID during replacement is a smart move for future travel and federal identification requirements. Learn more at Florida's REAL ID Requirements.
Additional Tips
- If your address has changed since your last license issuance, update it first by visiting Updating Your Address on a Florida Driver License.
- If you have misplaced your license multiple times, the FLHSMV may investigate or require in-person verification more frequently.
Replacing at DMV Kiosks and Mobile Units
Some Florida residents may qualify to replace their license using self-service Publix kiosks or mobile DMV offices, available throughout the state for added convenience.
Need More Help?
If you need assistance, call the FLHSMV Customer Service Center at (850) 617-2000 or visit a Florida DMV Office Near You.
Always keep your license in a secure location and consider carrying a copy of it separately when traveling.