New identification requirements for licenses

The St. Johns County Tax Collector’s Office has reported to Historic City News that they will be following new documentation requirements for residents renewing or obtaining a new drivers license or Florida identification card beginning January 1st.

The new documentation process only applies to those who are required to visit an issuing office in person.

You are allowed to renew one time by a convenience method (Internet or mail). Your next renewal must then be in a driver license office. For example, if you renewed your license online in March 2009, you will need to visit a driver license office for your next renewal.

You can renew a license online. Holders of a Florida driver license issued since 2002 may renew at their local driver license office, on-line or by mail. You may renew your license up to 18 months prior to expiration.

If you aren’t required to come in, the tax collector’s office encourages you to skip the trip and renew online at www.GoRenew.com. You can renew your driver license, identifications card, vehicle tags and change your address.

You are required to visit an issuing office in person:

■if you are applying for your first driver license or identification card
■if you legally change your name (eg: by marriage or divorce)
■when your current credential expires and you have already used the one-time “convenience” renewal option

For office visits, you must bring original documents that prove your identity, social security number, and residential address. Visit www.gathergoget.com to find out what you will need to bring.

If you do need to visit an issuing office, then make sure you study the new document requirements and print out a document checklist. You can also use the On-line Appointment Service and Information System to schedule an appointment, or find an issuing office near you.