Every day, approximately 1,000 individuals relocate to Florida, leading to a surge of new drivers at local DMV offices. However, the recognition of your out-of-state driver’s license varies depending on its origin. Some licenses are considered primary identification, while others subject you to stricter ID requirements. This guide clarifies Florida’s driver’s license requirements for new residents.
**Driver’s Licenses Recognized as Primary ID**
If your driver’s license originates from a majority of U.S. states, Florida typically accepts it as a primary form of identification. The key is providing the correct supporting documentation. You’ll need to supplement your license with a secondary ID, such as a Social Security card, marriage certificate, life insurance policy, or birth certificate. A comprehensive list of accepted secondary documents is available on the Florida DMV website.
**Stricter ID Requirements: Secondary ID Only**
Licenses from the following states are considered *secondary* forms of identification only:
Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
If your license falls into this category, you must provide one of the following documents as *primary* identification:
* Original or certified United States birth certificate
* Valid United States passport
* Certificate of Naturalization
**Important Considerations for a Smooth DMV Visit**
* **Bring the Right ID:** Inadequate identification is a common reason for application failure. Avoid delays by ensuring you have the necessary documents. Double-check the specific requirements based on your originating state.
* **Know Your Social Security Number:** U.S. citizens must provide a valid Social Security number.
* **Suspended Licenses Are Not Accepted:** If your out-of-state license is suspended, resolve the suspension before applying for a Florida license.
* **Schedule an Appointment:** Expedite your visit by scheduling an appointment online. Select “Convert Out-of-State License to Florida” and choose your preferred Florida County DMV location.