Florida Drivers License Appointments
When you need to get something important done at the DHSMV, it can be a hassle, especially when you realize you may have to wait for hours before you can actually turn in your paperwork or talk to an employee. You can try to avoid this problem by visiting during slow periods at the DHSMV, but even then you may encounter long wait times. Fortunately, the Florida DHSMV allows patrons to book appointments for specific times, reserving them a spot well in advance and saving them precious time during the day.
Florida’s Online Appointment and Services Information System (OASIS)
OASIS is a convenient online service run by the Florida DHSMV that helps you schedule appointments for a wide variety of traffic services. Select the branch nearest you and what you are trying to accomplish with your trip to the DHSMV. OASIS will present you with the next available times for your selected branch, and you can choose the one that suits your schedule best. OASIS connects to all branches throughout the state, so it is easy to find what you are looking for, no matter what county you are in.
What Services Are Available to Schedule in Advance?
While not every service is available at every branch, appointments are available for a large variety of things at the DHSMV. Most written driving exams and renewals can be scheduled, such as your permit exam, license exam, motorcycle license exam, license renewal, and converting an out-of-state license to a Florida license. You will also be required to schedule behind-the-wheel road tests, as the DHSMV must ensure that an employee is available to test and evaluate you. Most other miscellaneous tasks, like changing your name/address or reinstating a suspended license, can also be booked ahead of time.
What If I Can’t Book an Appointment?
If your branch does not offer appointments for the service you need, or the available times do not suit your schedule, you can still prevent long wait times by avoiding the DHSMV during peak hours. Stay away from the DHSMV:
- On Mondays and Fridays; people tend to get things done immediately before or after a weekend.
- Right before or after a holiday, or any time the DHSMV has been closed for long periods.
- During lunch hour, as people attempt to get their vehicle-related chores done during their break.
If you want to avoid the rush of people, be sure to go:
- In the middle of the week, Tuesday to Thursday.
- Before lunchtime, or better yet, right when the office opens.
- During the middle of the month.
If possible, avoid going to the DHSMV office altogether by getting your tasks processed online. Initial car registrations, titling, and driving exams will unfortunately need to be completed in person, but things like annual registration, paying or contesting traffic tickets, and registering a change of name or address can be done on the Florida DHSMV website. As long as the DHSMV has your information on file, you can complete those basic services online.
