For those of you who feel edgy about renewing their Florida driver’s licenses under the new system, I thought I’d let you know I had a good experience.
About two months ago, I was notified that it was time to renew my driver’s license. The notice explained that this couldn’t be done by mail or online, but that I had to go into one of the Tax Collector’s offices with proof of my identity and address.
About three weeks ago, I went online and found out what documents I needed. This can differ depending on your situation. Through their interactive form, I was able to print out the specifics that applied to me. I had the choice of making an appointment online or by calling a toll-free Tallahassee phone number. For no particular reason I called the Tallahassee number. A very helpful man answered and made an appointment for me to go to the Tax Collector’s office in Royal Palm Beach this past Wed. at 3:00 p.m. I got a reminder phone call about the appointment the day before.
On Wednesday I got to the Tax Collector’s office at 2:50. Outside the office I “registered” at a booth. The clerk there (one of two) took my documentation, placed a clip on it, and gave it back to me with a slip of paper saying “R-117.” I went inside and sat down among SCORES of people waiting, They were there for different things, and some had been waiting a long time. I have waited there in the past.
Within TWO MINUTES “R-117” was posted on the information board and it was announced: “R-117 go to Desk Four.” The woman at Desk Four was very nice. Despite the fact I was turning 75 on the expiration date of my old license, all I had to take was a vision test, which I passed easily. I breathed a sigh of relief.
I knew they would be taking my photo and had said to myself before going in: “Now don’t get feeling angry about ANYTHING, Lanny, or it will be showing on your mug shot for the next several years.” This worked out fine. There was nothing to be angry about. The mug shot even has a slight smile.
The renewal cost $54 and my new license is good for 8 years.
At the same time, I picked up the Official Florida Driver's Handbook (2011). This is well worth getting. Some of the rules are in the form of suggestions.
ReplyDeleteOne thing among several I learned was that you can ride a bicycle legally on the right side of the road, the left side, or the sidewalk, although the manual cautions about riding against the flow of traffic and on sidewalks.