Before you Renew Your License
Be Prepared for New Driver License And ID Requirements
Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A.
Due to Homeland Security we must be prepared for the new documentation requirements which took place on January 1, 2010, for Florida residents wishing to obtain a driver license or identification card.
Those wishing to obtain a new license, legally change their name prior to their renewal date, or immediately replace a lost or stolen license or ID card will be required to visit a driver license office and show proof of: 1) identification, 2) Social Security number and 3) residential address (two items). Those simply renewing may do so by a convenience method, via the Internet or mail, one time between office renewals. The renewal following a convenience option must be in a state driver license office (or participating tax collector office) where new requirements will be in effect.
Florida law was enacted to ensure the state’s compliance with the provisions of the Federal Real ID Act. Despite the recent extension of deadlines by the Department of Homeland Security, Florida will continue its efforts to provide the most secure credentials and issuance processes possible, benefitting both our citizens as well as law enforcement agencies. The decision by the DHS will have no impact on Florida’s planned improvements.
Before going to a Driver License office, read the full requirements and be prepared.
I. As identification, Florida residents who are U.S. Citizens must bring one of the following original documents as proof of identify:
1. Certified U.S. Birth Certificate, (a hospital birth certificate is not acceptable).
2. Valid U.S. Passport.
3. Certificate of naturalization.
4. Consular report of birth abroad.
For a Legal Name Change:
1. Original or certified copy of all marriage certificates or court orders that show name changes. (Uncertified copies are not valid.)
Immigrants: Bring one of the following:
1. Alien Registration Receipt Card (Green Card Form 1-551).
2. I-551 stamp in passport or on I-94.
3. Immigration judge’s order with applicant’s A-number granting asylum.
4. I-797, with A-number indicating granting of asylum, with additional identification.
5. I-797 or another form from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with the applicant’s A-number, stating approval of refugee status, with additional identification.
II. Social Security Number (bring one of the following):
1. Social Security card
2. W-2 form.
3. Pay check showing number
4. DD-214.
5. School record showing number.
6. Documentation from the IRS showing the Social Security number.
(If you do not have a Social Security number, U.S. Citizens or Immigrants must bring SSA form L-676.
III. Residential Address (bring 2 of the following):
The address on a Driver’s License or ID card can no longer be a post office box. Bring 2 proofs of residential address.
1. Deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement, mortgage payment boklet, or rental agreement.
2. Florida voter registration care.
3. Florida vehicle registration or title.
4. W-2 form or 1099 form.
5. Utility bill, hookup, or work order – not more than two months old.
6. Current automobile or homeowner’s insurance policy or bill.
7. Mail from financial institutions – not more than two months old.
8. Medical or health card with address listed.
9. A letter from a shelter or half-way house verifying that applicant lives at the address.
10. Educational transcripts for the current school year.
11. Statement from an accompanying parent, stepparent or guardian residing at the same address as the applicant. The parent or guardian must present proof of residential address.
