Florida driver license and state ID — guide for immigrants

Florida requires proof of lawful presence for a driver license or ID card, and it has no program for undocumented residents. But lawfully present non-citizens — green-card holders, asylees, refugees, and non-immigrant visa holders — can get a Florida license or ID, issued for the period on their immigration document (no more than one year at a time). Here is exactly who qualifies, what to bring, what it costs, and an important warning about out-of-state licenses.

Quick answer

  • Undocumented DL access: NO — lawful presence required
  • Lawfully present non-citizens: YES — issued for the period on your USCIS document (max 1 year)
  • Driver license fee: $48 (Class E) · ID card fee: $25 (a $6.25 service fee may apply at a tax collector office)
  • Agency: Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
  • Website: flhsmv.gov · Phone: (850) 617-2000

Which non-citizens can get a Florida license or ID

Florida issues licenses and ID cards to two groups of non-citizens — immigrants (lawful permanent residents, asylees, refugees) and non-immigrants (visa holders, EAD holders). The credential “will be issued for the period of time specified on the USCIS document, not to exceed one year.” A non-U.S. citizen applying for a first driver license receives a 60-day temporary paper permit; the permanent card is mailed within 60 days once identity and legal status are verified.

Documents you need (non-immigrant)

  • Primary identification — a valid Employment Authorization card (I-766), or a non-expired I-94 with the required supporting documents. Certain classifications need extra documents: F-1 and M-1 students bring an I-20; J-1 or J-2 bring a DS-2019.
  • Proof of a Social Security number if one has been issued (SSN card, W-2, pay stub, or 1099). Non-immigrants in the country without a work visa are not required to obtain an SSA refusal letter.
  • Two proofs of Florida residential address.

What is REAL ID?

Florida driver licenses and ID cards are issued as REAL ID-compliant credentials. A REAL ID (gold star) can be used to board domestic flights (enforced since May 7, 2025) and enter federal facilities.

Important: out-of-state licenses and SB 1718

Under Florida’s SB 1718 (2023), certain out-of-state licenses are not valid for driving in Florida. The law applies to a class of license “issued by another state exclusively to undocumented immigrants who are unable to prove lawful presence.” Florida specifically names the Connecticut “Drive Only (DO)” and Delaware “Driving Privilege Only” classes. If you hold one of those undocumented-only classes, do not rely on it to drive in Florida. A standard out-of-state license issued to a person with lawful presence remains valid.

If you are undocumented or cannot prove lawful presence

Florida has no driver-privilege card for undocumented residents. Practical alternatives:

  • Use your foreign passport as primary ID for banking, employment (with an EAD), and federal flights.
  • Get a matrícula consular from your home-country consulate (see Consulates in Florida).
  • Use an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in your home country before travel — valid short-term for visitors.
  • Open an ITIN-friendly bank account to bank without an SSN.
  • Consider an AB60-equivalent state if you must drive regularly (for example California, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, or Washington).

Last verified: 2026-06-28. Sources: FLHSMV — What to Bring: Non-Immigrant, Visiting Florida FAQ / SB 1718, and Fees.

General procedural information. FLHSMV policies, fees, and document requirements change frequently — verify with the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles before visiting. Not legal or immigration advice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.