Drivers License & ID Cards

THE NEW DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS

For office visits, you must bring specific forms of proof for identification, Social Security number, and residential address. The checklists here list some valid documents. For more document options, visit What to Bring

1. Proof of Legal Presence \ Citizenship

An original or certified copy of one of the following documents:

• Certified US birth certificate (Not Hospital Birth Certificate)
• Valid US passport in current name
• Certificate of naturalization
• Consular proof of birth abroad

Name Change: (if applicable) (Marriage constitutes name change)

• Original or certified copy of all marriage certificates or court orders that show your name change(s) (Uncertified photocopies are not valid.)

2. Social Security Number

Bring one:

• Social Security card or W-2 form (Showing full Social Security Number)
• Paycheck showing number (Showing full Social Security Number)
• Any 1099 form (Cannot be handwritten)

*Please make sure the name on your social security document matches the name you have or wish to have on your Driver's License*

3. Residential Address (must be a Florida residential address, not post office box)

• Customers must submit TWO different documents with their Florida residential address. Residential address documents include, but are not limited to:
  • Deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement, mortgage payment booklet, or residential rental/lease agreement;
  • Florida voter registration card;
  • Florida vehicle registration or title
  • Utility bill;**
  • A utility hook-up or work order dated within 60 days before the application;
  • Selective service card;
  • Medical or health card with address listed;
  • Current homeowner insurance policy or bill;**
  • Current automobile insurance policy or bill;**

  **Must be dated within the last 30 days**

• If you are unable to provide two acceptable documents in your name establishing proof of residential address, you will need a Certification of Address. The certification of address must be signed by all parties in the presence of issuance personnel or a notary. The certifier will also be required to provide the following document establishing that the certifier owns or leases the property.
  • Deed
  • Mortgage Agreement
  • Monthly Mortgage Statement (must be dated within the last 30 days)
  • Rental or Lease Agreement
• Additionally, a second proof of address from the "Acceptable Proof of Address" list is required.

Immigrants renewing, replacing, or applying for a new driver's license or ID card in person must submit the following documents before a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card can be issued. Please note that the name assigned to the Social Security Number (SSN) must match the name that will appear on the Florida driver's license or ID card. Customers who have recently changed their name should update their records with the Social Security Administration before applying for a driver's license or ID card.

1. Primary Identification

An original of one of the following documents with complete name:

• Valid alien registration receipt card (green card, form I-551);
• I-551 stamp in passport or on I-94;
• Immigration judge’s order, containing the customer’s A-number (admissions number),
  granting asylum;
• I-797, containing the customer’s A-number, stating the customer has been granted asylum; or
• I-797, or another form from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), with the customer’s A-number, stating the customer’s application for refugee status is approved.

2. Proof of Social Security

An original of one of the following documents with complete name and complete SSN:

• Social Security card (with the customer’s current name);
• W-2 form (not handwritten);
• Pay check/stub;
• SSA-1099; or
• Any 1099 (not handwritten).

For customers without an SSN, please click here.

3. Proofs of Residential Address (must be a Florida residential address, not post office box)

• Customers must submit TWO different documents with their Florida residential address. Residential address documents include, but are not limited to:
  • Deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement, mortgage payment booklet, or residential rental/lease agreement;
  • Florida voter registration card;
  • Florida vehicle registration or title
  • Utility bill;**
  • A utility hook-up or work order dated within 60 days before the application;
  • Selective service card;
  • Medical or health card with address listed;
  • Current homeowner insurance policy or bill;**
  • Current automobile insurance policy or bill;**

  **Must be dated within the last 30 days**

• If you are unable to provide two acceptable documents in your name establishing proof of residential address, you will need a Certification of Address. The certification of address must be signed by all parties in the presence of issuance personnel or a notary. The certifier will also be required to provide the following document establishing that the certifier owns or leases the property.
  • Deed
  • Mortgage Agreement
  • Monthly Mortgage Statement (must be dated within the last 30 days)
  • Rental or Lease Agreement
• Additionally, a second proof of address from the "Acceptable Proof of Address" list is required.

In accordance with the REAL ID Act, customers are not required to present these documents for subsequent renewals unless their information changes (e.g., name, address).

Customers who have legally changed their name by marriage, divorce or court order must have their name changed on their USCIS documents.

Non-immigrants renewing, replacing or applying for a new driver license or ID card in person must submit the following documents before a REAL-ID compliant driver license or ID card can be issued. Please note that the name assigned to the Social Security Number (SSN) must match the name that will appear on the Florida driver license or ID card. Customers who have recently changed their name should update their records with the Social Security Administration before applying for a driver license or ID card.

1. Primary Identification

An original of one of the following documents with complete name:

• Valid employment authorization card issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) form I-688B or I-766;
• Non-expired proof of non-immigrant classification provided by DHS form I-94 with required supporting attachment(s). If a customer is unsure of the required documentation, they should bring all United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) documentation with them.
  I-94s must be accompanied by a valid passport with a date of entry stamp. Certain classifications require additional documentation. Some examples are:
  • F-1 and M-1 classification must be accompanied by an I-20;
  • J-1 or J-2 designation must be accompanied by a DS2019;
  • Refugee, asylee and parolee classifications must be accompanied by additional documentation;
• I-571 travel document/refugee travel permit;
• I-512 parole letter accepted; or
• Immigration judge’s order granting asylum or cancellation of removal.

NOTES

• Documents must be valid for more than 30 days from the date of issuance.
• Non-U.S. citizens applying for an original driver license will be issued a 60-day temporary paper permit without a photo and a receipt. Non-U.S. citizens applying for an ID card will be issued a receipt. Upon identity and legal status verification, a driver license or ID card will be issued within 60 days and mailed to the address on the driver record. The driver license or ID card will be issued for the period of time specified on the USCIS document, up to a maximum of four years.
• If lawful status or identification is not verified, a denial of issuance letter will be mailed to the customer.

2. Proof of Social Security

An original of one of the following documents with complete name and complete SSN:

• Social Security card (with customer’s current name);
• W-2 form (not handwritten);
• Pay check/stub;
• SSA-1099; or
• Any 1099 (not handwritten).

For customers without an SSN, please click here.

3. Proofs of Residential Address (must be a Florida residential address, not post office box) 

• Customers must submit TWO different documents with their Florida residential address. Residential address documents include, but are not limited to:
  • Deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement, mortgage payment booklet, or residential rental/lease agreement;
  • Florida voter registration card;
  • Florida vehicle registration or title
  • Utility bill;**
  • A utility hook-up or work order dated within 60 days before the application;
  • Selective service card;
  • Medical or health card with address listed;
  • Current homeowner insurance policy or bill;**
  • Current automobile insurance policy or bill;**

  **Must be dated within the last 30 days**

• If you are unable to provide two acceptable documents in your name establishing proof of residential address, you will need a Certification of Address. The certification of address must be signed by all parties in the presence of issuance personnel or a notary. The certifier will also be required to provide the following document establishing that the certifier owns or leases the property.
  • Deed
  • Mortgage Agreement
  • Monthly Mortgage Statement (must be dated within the last 30 days)
  • Rental or Lease Agreement
• Additionally, a second proof of address from the "Acceptable Proof of Address" list is required.

Customers who have legally changed their name by marriage, divorce or court order must have their name changed on their USCIS documents.

Non-immigrants in the country without a work visa are not required to obtain a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that they were never issued an SSN (also known as an SSA refusal letter).

Road Test Information

This guide provides a clear, comprehensive overview of what to expect before and during your driving skills test.

Who Must Take a Road Test

• First time drivers
• Upgrading from a Learner's permit
• Out of country driver licenses that do not qualify for reciprocity
• Medical issues that can affect driving ability
• Required for a point suspension

Appointment Policies

To ensure fairness and availability:

• Appointments are required for all road tests.
• Double bookings are not allowed. Only one active appointment at a time. Multiple bookings will be canceled.
• Walk-ins are not accepted for driving tests.
• Arrive 10-15 minutes prior to scheduled appointment time. Late arrivals will be rescheduled.

Please schedule, modify, or cancel appointments through OkaloosaTax.com

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Arrive prepared with the following:

• Current vehicle registration and current insurance for the vehicle you will be using.
• Your valid learner's license (if applicable).
• Original US Birth Certificate or valid US Passport, Social Security number, and 2 proofs of residential address.
• See Driver License Requirements Tabs for additional information.
• Non US citizens - contact our office for required documents
• A parent or guardian if you are under 18.

Failure to bring required documents may result in rescheduling.

Vehicle Safety Requirements

The vehicle must be clean and pass a safety inspection before the test begins. Examiners will check for:

• Operational headlights, brake lights, and turn signals
• Functional horn
• Functional A/C
• Good tire condition (no excessive wear)
• Functional Seat Belts
• Secure doors and windows
• Working windshield wipers
• Clean interior (we reserve the right to decline a test if the vehicle is excessively dirty)

If the vehicle does not meet these standards, the test will not be administered.

What the Test Includes

During the road test, you will be evaluated on your ability to safely and confidently operate a vehicle. Skills may include:

• Straight-line backing (Look over your shoulder, without mirrors/cameras)
• Straight-in Parking maneuver
• Emergency/Quick Stop maneuver
• Three-point turn
• Approaching and obeying stop signs and traffic signals (Complete stops, stopping before white line/crosswalk)
• Proper lane changes and signaling (100 ft prior to turn)
• Parking on a hill/grade
• Smooth acceleration and braking

The examiner will provide clear instructions throughout the test.

How to Prepare for Success

To help ensure a smooth testing experience:

• Practice regularly in different traffic conditions.
• Review the Florida Driver License Handbook
• Become comfortable with basic maneuvers and defensive driving techniques
• Make sure the vehicle is clean, safe, and fully functional.

Effective February 6, 2026: All driver license knowledge exams and driving tests in Florida will be administered in English only. Translation devices and interpreter services are not permitted.

Contact Us

For additional questions, appointment assistance, or additional information, please contact us at (850) 651-7300.

All customers applying for an original CDL or CLP must present one of the documents below to establish Florida residency.

• A current Florida Class E Driver License or Florida Identification card held for a period more than six months.
• A lease agreement in the customer's name that has been in place for a period more than six consecutive months.
• A current residential mortgage in the customer's name signed more than six months ago.
• A current residential deed in the customer's name signed more than six months ago.
• A Florida Voter Registration Card
• A Declaration of Domicile filed with the courts
• Homestead Tax Exemption filing on property in this state.

Drivers applying for or changing the address on a CDL or CLP will be required to present two residential address documents from the lists below. At least one proof of address must be submitted from list A.

List A

• A recent lease or rental agreement with a term of six months or greater in the driver's name.
• Current Florida Voter Registration Card
• Florida Vehicle/Vessel Registration or Title
• Current homeowners insurance policy or bill
• Current utility bill **
• Recent phone bill **
• Recent internet bill **
• Latest property tax bill
• Mortgage deed for property in Florida

List B

• Latest W2 form or 1099 form
• Recent bank statement **
• Recent credit card statement **
• Latest military orders or documents
• Recent pay stub **
• Recent official government documents **

**Must be dated within the last 30 to 60 days**

Note: If you are unable to provide a proof of residential address from list A, you must provide a Declaration of Domicile filed with the Clerk of Court pursuant to Florida Statutes section 222.17 AND one proof of residential documents from List B.

• First time Hazmat applicants must complete the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) course online prior to taking the written exam. Visit www.FLHSMV.Gov for a list of vendors.
• The Hazmat exam is required to be taken every time you renew your current CDL, and for those transferring from out of state.
• It is recommended to make your Hazmat appointment 30-60 days prior the expiration date of your current CDL license.
• Commercial Driver Licenses with a Hazmat endorsement are only good for 4 years.
• The Hazmat exam can be taken at any of our locations (Shalimar, Niceville, Destin, Crestview). An appointment is required. Hazmat tests are valid for 60 days.
• Hazmat Fingerprinting along with the CDL issuance is only processed at our Niceville Branch. An appointment is necessary.
• Bring your current medical DOT card if you are required by law to carry one. Below is a list of exceptions that would exempt you from carry a DOT medical card.
  • Category B - Excepted Interstate - Driver operates or expects to operate in interstate commerce but engages exclusively in operations that qualify driver for exception from the requirement to maintain federal Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
    • Drivers may self-certify in this category if they operate CMVs in interstate commerce, but only in the following circumstances:
    • Driving for a federal, state, or local government agency.
    • Occasional transportation of personal property by individuals neither for compensation nor in the furtherance of a commercial enterprise.
    • Transport of medical patients or human corpses.
    • Emergency operations.
    • Custom harvesting.
    • Beekeeping.
  • Category D - Excepted Intrastate - Driver operates or expect to operate only in intrastate commerce but engages exclusively in operations that qualify for exception from State of Florida Medical Examiner’s Certificate requirements.
    • Drivers may self-certify in this category if they operate CMVs only in intrastate commerce and only in the following circumstances:
    • Transporting agricultural or forestry products between the farm or place of harvest and a market or first place of storage.
    • Driving CMV’s owned by electric or telephone utilities within 200 miles of where the vehicle is based.
    • Operating private school busses with seating for fewer than 24 passengers.
    • Operating as a driver/salesman within 100 miles of your workplace when CMV operation is incidental to your job and on the condition, you have had no traffic conviction in the past three (3) years.

Learner's Permits

To obtain a Learners permit you must:

1. Complete the 6-hour DETS (Driver Education Traffic Safety) course if you are under 18 years old and have never held a driver license from any other state or country. This course is available 100% online. You can click here to go to the state-approved course providers list. If you are over the age of 18 years old, you can take the TSLAE course (Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education).
2. If you have taken your TLSAE course and need to verify the course has been completed, please use this link: Traffic School Completion Check
3. Take permit exams in our office ( You can only take this exam online if you are under 18 years old. If under 18, click here to visit the state-approved provider list) Permit exams are provided in our office Monday-Friday 8:30-3:30 pm. The exam is an hour-long, therefore, you may want to consider coming before 2:30 pm.
4. Please refer to the section above, Driver License Requirements, to see what documents are required for issuance.
5. Once all required documents have been obtained and all required exams have been passed, the Learner's Permit fee is $54.25.

Studying for the Permit Test

You can find the handbooks below:

Drivers Handbooks

• Florida Driver’s Handbook | Español | Creole
• Florida CDL Handbook | Español
• Florida Motorcycle Handbook | Español
• Practice Knowledge Exams | Español | Creole

If you are under 18 you will need to hold your permit for a period of one year with no traffic citations before you can take your Driving Test. Driving tests are performed centrally at our Niceville location, they are administered by appointment only.  To schedule an appointment click here or you can call our Customer Service Center at (850) 651-7300

Are you Military Stationed out of state?

Military!  Click the above icon to get specific information pertaining to members of the Armed Forces.

April is "Donate Life Month"  Below are several ways you can become an organ donor.

How to register as an organ donor.

Florida offers four simple ways to register as an organ, tissue or eye donor.

1. On Donate Life Florida’s website at www.DonateLifeFlorida.org.
2. When renewing your driver license online at www.GoRenew.com.
3. When obtaining a new or renewed driver license in an office.
4. By calling Donate Life Florida at 1-877-35-SHARE (1-877-357-4273)

Payment

The Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office offers several methods to make paying driver's license transactions easier and more convenient.  Customers can pay in person using a debit/credit card issued by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express. A bank card fee is applicable for debit/credit card payments per FL Statute 215.322.  Payment by check or cash is also accepted.

• Credit card payments may be treated as a “cash advance” by the card company and may incur interest charges from the transaction date.

• If writing a check, make it payable in U.S. funds to "Ben Anderson Tax Collector."

When you provide a check as payment, you authorize us to either 1. use information from your check to make a one-time electronic fund transfer from your account or 2. process the payment as a check transaction.