There are new rules for Florida driver license and ID card renewals as of July 1, 2010. Here’s a link to the requirements: http://www.dmvflorida.org/drivers-license-identification.shtml
But for those who can’t or don’t want to check the link, generally U.S. citizens have to show an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, a social security card, and two current proofs of residence. There are alternative documents accepted for some of this, but people born in the U.S. have to show a birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport. Naturalized citizens and citizens born abroad have to show other U.S. government documents.
Non-citizen immigrants have to show proof that they are legally here, such as a green card or employment authorization, as well as proof of social security number and two proofs of residence.
Persons who have had any name change(s) have to show a chain of original or certified copies of marriage licenses or court orders that track all changes from the name on the birth certificate to the current name.
I had to renew my license last fall, and they were dead serious about the requirements, turning away everyone who didn’t have all the necessary documents.
There is one benefit to this hassle: Florida law requires a valid photo I.D. to vote.
renewed my FL driver license in Jan 2011 by
mail-—all that was required was $48