New Driver License And ID Requirements Take Effect

Beginning Jan. 1, 2010, new documentation requirements will take effect 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.

Floridians are encouraged to visit www.gathergoget.com to find out how and when to gather your documents, go to a driver license office and get your new card. This online hub allows residents to obtain contact information showing where to get required documents, create personalized checklists and browse a list of local driver license offices in their area.

“These new requirements support the most secure identification credential possible,” said Division of Driver License Director, Sandra Lambert. “We are pleased to have a convenient online tool in place that takes Floridians through a step-by-step process, helping to identify and obtain all required documents to prepare for their next visit to an office.”

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.

While the new documentation requirements begin Jan. 1, 2010, Florida residents are not required to visit a driver license or tax collector office on or before this date. Residents may verify when they need to visit an office with the required documents by visiting GatherGoGet.com.

As the changes may require some preparation, the Department encourages residents to visit the website to speed through the process so they can make their transactions in one trip.

New driver license legislation took effect Nov. 1.

Previously, drivers were allowed to hold a license from another state and receive a Florida license with the “Valid in Florida Only” designation. Now, drivers will only be allowed to hold a license from one state and obtaining a “Valid in Florida Only” designation will no longer be an option.

Drivers will also no longer be allowed to be issued both a driver license and identification card. Licenses or identification cards previously issued to drivers will be valid; however, when a driver applies for a replacement or renewal card, they will be required to choose which card they want to retain.

Driver licenses and identification cards will display the driver’s full legal name on the face of the card. If a customer’s name is too long, the name will wrap from one line to the next on the card.

Florida residents from any county may renew their license at Martin County tax collector offices.