In Florida, legal immigrants without permanent residency status must now renew their driver’s licenses or identification cards yearly. This change comes from a new policy enacted by the Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DMV). Announced on May 3 by the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector's Office, the regulation mandates that licenses and IDs for these individuals will be valid for no more than 12 months, regardless of whether their immigration status allows them to stay in the U.S. for a longer period.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) specifies, in accordance with Florida Statutes 322.051 and 322.18, that all licenses and ID cards issued to non-immigrants are valid only up to the expiration date of their U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) documentation, not exceeding one year. This means even those awaiting political asylum with work permits valid for up to five years must endure the annual renewal process, including paying new fees and waiting in long lines at busy DMV offices.
This policy does not affect green card holders but does impact those with work visas or temporary permits in the southern state. The situation further complicates access to licenses in Florida, particularly in counties like Miami-Dade, where DMV offices struggle with outdated technology, insufficient staffing, and a rising demand for appointments.
Challenges at the DMV: A Growing Concern
The mandatory implementation of REAL ID starting May 7, 2025, has exacerbated congestion at DMV locations. In response to the surge of appointment scalpers, the Florida House of Representatives recently passed a law imposing fines up to $1,000 and up to a year of imprisonment for such activities. Local fines in Miami-Dade can reach $500 per violation.
Implications of Florida's New License Renewal Rules
Who is affected by the new license renewal rule in Florida?
Legal immigrants in Florida without permanent residency status must renew their licenses or ID cards annually due to the new rule.
What are the consequences of the new renewal requirements?
The new requirements mean non-permanent residents face yearly renewals, additional fees, and potentially longer wait times at DMV offices.
How does the new law affect the REAL ID implementation?
The REAL ID rollout, set for May 7, 2025, has increased demand and congestion at DMV offices, complicating the renewal process further.