Florida Driver's Licenses Will Display Citizenship Status Under New State Law

Beginning January 1, 2027, newly issued, renewed, and replacement Florida driver's licenses and state identification cards will include a designation indicating whether the cardholder is a U.S. citizen.

The requirement is part of House Bill 991, an elections-related measure signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis. The legislation directs the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to include citizenship status on driver's licenses and identification cards issued after the effective date.

Current Florida driver's licenses and state IDs will remain valid and do not need to be replaced. The new designation will only appear on credentials issued after the law takes effect through renewals, replacements, or new applications.

Florida lawmakers stated that the change is intended to assist with voter registration verification and election administration. The law is one of several election-related provisions included in HB 991, which also addresses voter eligibility verification and election procedures.

The legislation applies to both driver's licenses and state-issued identification cards. Florida residents renewing or replacing their credentials after January 1, 2027, can expect to see the citizenship designation included on their new card.

For most residents, no action is required at this time. Existing licenses remain valid until their expiration date, and the change will be implemented as cards are routinely renewed or replaced.

As the implementation date approaches, state officials are expected to release additional information regarding how citizenship status will be displayed on Florida-issued credentials and what documentation may be required during the application or renewal process.