Florida Governor Rick Scott signed International Driver’s License Bill

Governor Rick Scott signed at the beginning of April HB 7059 by Representative Daniel Davis relating to drivers licensing into law. This bill repeals a law requiring an International Driving Permit for all foreign drivers visiting Florida.

The news is specifically good for the Canadian visitors that South Florida, specifically Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, receives every winter. Moreover, it is also beneficial for tourists coming to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Boca Raton and other areas in South Florida. Will Seccombe, President and CEO of VisitFlorida said that “last year, the Florida tourism industry welcomed nearly 14 million visitors from 181 countries who spent $15 billion”, cited by Governor’s Office.

Representatives from AAA-The Auto Club Group and the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) also joined Governor Scott in signing this bill into law. “AAA applauds this swift action by the Florida Legislature and Governor Rick Scott repealing the 2012 law that required an International Driving Permit for all foreign drivers,” said Kevin Bakewell, chief public affairs officer for AAA.”

The new regulations allow foreign visitors, and especially the numerous Canadian visitors, to drive in Florida by using their provincial driver’s license.

For any criminal issues related to driving in Florida, please feel free to contact our criminal defense team in Fort Lauderdale for advice and representation.