How to Replace a Lost Florida License

Losing your drivers license is frustrating, but the fix doesn’t have to be. Whether it was stolen, misplaced, or left behind somewhere you can’t get it back from, replacing your Florida drivers license is a straightforward process — and you’ve got options.

Quick Answer:

To replace a lost Florida drivers license, apply online through the FLHSMV MyDMV Portal or visit a local driver license office for a same-day card.
Bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of residential address.
The replacement fee is waived if your license was stolen and you bring a police report in person.

Step-by-Step: How to Replace It

Step 1: Choose How You’ll Apply

Online: Request a replacement drivers license or ID card through the state’s FLHSMV MyDMV Portal, which replaced the old GoRenew system. It works if your records are current and your name isn’t changing, and the new card arrives by mail.
In Person: Visit a Florida driver license office near you and walk out with a printed card the same day. Most counties run these services through the county tax collector, so check whether yours takes walk-ins or bookings. Our guide to Florida DMV appointments explains how scheduling works county by county.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You’ll need to bring or submit proof of the following:

Proof of Identity (One of the following):

U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy)
Valid U.S. passport or passport card
Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
Consular Report of Birth Abroad

These are the same documents required when getting your Florida license for the first time.

Proof of Social Security Number (One of the following):

Social Security card
W-2 or SSA-1099 (not handwritten)
Paycheck or pay stub showing full SSN

Proof of Residential Address (Two of the following):

Florida vehicle registration or title
Deed, lease agreement, mortgage statement
Florida voter registration card
Utility bills, insurance policy, or W-2/1099 form

These address requirements match what’s needed for Florida license documents. Originals or certified copies only, no photocopies.

Step 3: Apply and Pay

Submit your application and documents, then pay the state’s replacement fee, plus a small service charge at some tax collector offices. If your license was stolen, file a police report first: bring a copy stating the license or ID was stolen and the fee is waived. One detail the fine print buries: the waiver is in-person only and can’t be processed through the online portal. Current fee amounts are listed on the FLHSMV renewal and replacement page.

What If You’re Out of State?

If you’re temporarily outside Florida:

Request a replacement online and have it mailed to your current address
Update your address to reflect your current location, then switch it back when you return
Request a short-term temporary driving permit if needed (via phone, email, or mail). It has no photo, but it keeps you legal until you’re home.

Contact Info for Permit Requests:

Phone: (850) 617-2000
Address: Bureau of Records, 2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 92, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0575

Special Cases

Stolen License or Identity Theft

Beyond the fee waiver, a police report creates a paper trail that protects you if someone uses your license during a traffic stop or to open accounts in your name. If you suspect fraud, complete the FLHSMV Identity Theft and Driver License Fraud Report so the state can flag your record, then keep an eye on your Florida driving record for tickets you didn’t earn.

Florida ID Card Replacement

Lost a Florida identification card instead of a license? Same process, same documents. Eligible cardholders can order a replacement state ID online through the same FLHSMV portal or get a same-day card in person, and the stolen credential fee waiver applies to ID cards too.

Immigrants

Must apply in person and bring proof of legal presence. The replacement fee applies unless the license was stolen and you bring a police report.

Military Members Stationed Outside Florida

Can request replacements online or by mail
May also receive a temporary permit, and FLHSMV can extend a license while you serve away

If you’re military and need to understand Florida drivers education requirements for family members, online courses are available from any duty station.

FAQs

How much does it cost to replace a Florida drivers license?

The state charges a replacement fee, listed on the FLHSMV site, and some tax collector offices add a small service charge. The fee is waived when you provide a police report for a stolen license in person.

Can I replace my lost Florida drivers license online?

Yes, through the FLHSMV MyDMV Portal, if your records are up to date and nothing on your license is changing. The card arrives by mail, so go in person if you need photo ID this week.

What if I lost my license while out of state?

You can request a temporary permit and have your replacement mailed to your current address.

Do I need to report a stolen license?

You’re not required to, but if you file a police report and bring it in person, the replacement fee is waived, and the report protects you if your identity is misused.

Should I just renew instead of replacing?

If your expiration date is close, often yes. Florida lets you renew well ahead of time, so one transaction can cover both. See our guide to renewing your Florida license for timing and eligibility.

What if I’m a teen and lost my permit?

The same replacement process applies. If you need to understand Florida learner’s permit requirements, resources are available online.

Can I take my permit test online if I need to replace other documents?

Yes, if you’re under 18, you can take the Florida permit test online through authorized providers.