Miami-Dade County has launched "Operation Green Light," a program spearheaded by Clerk of Court and Comptroller Juan Fernández-Barquín. This initiative aims to assist residents in reinstating suspended driver's licenses and settling court debts by waiving collection fees for a limited time. Official sources indicate that the program will run from October 6 to 19, 2025, with the goal of decreasing the number of suspensions across the county.
During this two-week period, eligible residents can pay outstanding traffic, parking, minor offense, and criminal case fines online, over the phone, or in person, without incurring collection fees—offering an average savings of 30% on collection balances. To reinstate a license, a reinstatement fee of $60 is required. "This program is about more than just numbers; it's about people: the single parent driving their child to school, the worker who relies on their car for employment, the student trying to get to class," Fernández-Barquín told NBC Miami while introducing the initiative.
Operation Green Light was also conducted in April, during which approximately $250,000 in fees were waived. In Miami-Dade, over 85,000 individuals have suspended licenses, with areas like Brownsville nearing 7,000 suspensions, often due to unpaid fines, failure to appear in court, or point accumulation, among other reasons. County-collected testimonials show that by eliminating collection fees, some users only pay what they owe and immediately regain their licenses.
The Clerk of Court's office has set up payment plans for traffic, minor offenses, and criminal costs, as well as remote assistance to answer questions and help locate the nearest court branch. A voicemail and dedicated email have also been established for case management during the operation. With biannual operations, the county aims to ease financial burdens, restore access to services requiring a valid license, and enhance road safety by regularizing suspended drivers. "Helping people get back on the road," summarized Fernández-Barquín, is the central goal of the campaign.
Changes in Florida Driver's Licenses
This year, the state of Florida has enacted measures significantly impacting legal immigrants residing within its borders. Among these is the adoption of the new REAL ID starting May 7 and the requirement for non-permanent residents to renew their driver's licenses annually.
The Florida House of Representatives passed a law criminalizing the resale of appointments at DMV offices, a practice that had frustrated users by monopolizing and reselling free slots. This legislation classifies the activity as a first-degree misdemeanor, with penalties including fines of up to $1,000 and jail terms of up to one year.
Key Aspects of Operation Green Light in Miami-Dade
What is the main purpose of Operation Green Light in Miami-Dade?
The primary aim of Operation Green Light is to help residents reinstate suspended driver's licenses and settle outstanding court debts by waiving collection fees during a limited period.
How can residents pay their fines during the program?
Residents can pay their fines online, by phone, or in person without incurring additional collection fees, providing a potential savings of 30% on collection balances.
What changes have been made to Florida's driver's license policies this year?
This year, Florida has introduced the REAL ID and requires non-permanent residents to renew their driver's licenses annually. Additionally, a new law penalizes the resale of DMV appointment slots.