Important Tips for New Florida Residents
Welcome to Florida. To ease the transition to your new home, below is a checklist of important tasks to complete your move.
- Driver’s License or ID Card: Florida requires that you obtain a Florida driver’s license or ID card within 30 days of moving to the state. To obtain this, there are extensive document requirements: proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of social security number and proof of car insurance. For a new license, you will also need a valid out-of-state license and a vision test is required. When you get your license, you can also register to vote.
- Property Tax: If you purchase real estate, the new ownership information will be automatically updated on the tax roll after the deed is recorded. You should check your eligibility to file for any exemptions with the Property Appraiser.
- Vehicle Title and Registration: Florida law requires a vehicle to be registered within 10 days after the owner establishes residency. You will need the current title to register and title your vehicle. If your title is being held by a lender, you must provide your registration. You must present proof of insurance. The vehicle VIN number must also be verified; therefore, you must bring the vehicle with you.
- Boats: Florida titles and registers most vessels. You must present your registration from your old state.
- Hunting and Fishing: To hunt or fish, you may be required to obtain a license. If you already have a license, your address will be changed when you update your driver’s license.
- Tourist Tax: If you purchase a property for 6 months or less, you must register to pay the Tourist Development Tax. If your property is rented for 1 month or less, you will also have to pay the Business Tax.
- Update your Estate Planning documents: If you have a Will, Power of Attorney, Health Care Directive, or Living Will from another state, the documents might not be effective in Florida. See a Florida Estate Planning or Elder Law attorney for a consultation and bring along your documents for review.
Questions? The Law Office of Debra Simms is here to help. Call us today 386.256.4882
This blog post is not case-specific and is provided only for educational purposes and is not intended to provide specific legal advice. Blog topics may or may not be updated and entries may be out-of-date at the time you view them.
