The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, introducing new requirements for drivers and tax collectors. It mandates that drivers of commercial motor vehicles in unsafe conditions must complete specific examinations and vehicle inspections. Additionally, tax collectors are empowered to deliver certificates of title by mail and act as authorized agents for certain applications, thereby enhancing their role in vehicle-related transactions. The validity period for disabled parking permits is extended from four to eight years, and a timeline is established for transitioning driver license services to tax collectors by June 30, 2030.

Moreover, the bill imposes stricter regulations on driver license applicants who cheat on examinations, requiring them to retake tests after a 90-day waiting period and pay a $100 fine, which will be directed to the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. Tax collectors are also authorized to process driver license transactions online and may allow applicants to round up transaction amounts for charity donations. Additional provisions include allowing individuals with temporarily disqualified commercial driver licenses to obtain a Class E license at no cost if eligible, and enabling those with revoked driving privileges for nonmoving violations to petition for reinstatement after 12 months under specific conditions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1348 Filed: 319.24, 320.031, 320.0848, 322.135, 322.251, 322.271, 322.29, 322.66