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My Coast Guard
Commentary | May 9, 2023

Attn: Military personnel with Florida driver’s licenses

By Coast Guard Legal Service Command

A recent glitch in Florida’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) system is creating issues for many military members.

Who’s impacted? Any military member with a Florida driver’s license who lives outside of the state but doesn’t maintain Florida auto insurance. 

What’s happening? Your license may be set for suspension if you have a Florida driver’s license, but live out of state and don’t maintain Florida auto insurance. 

“Notices have not necessarily gone out about the suspensions,” said Cmdr. Amanda Hood, the Coast Guard’s staff judge advocate. “Some people have already had their licenses suspended and may be detained or arrested for driving with a suspended license.”

What should I do? Coast Guard Legal Service Command recommends that every Coast Guard member with a Florida license check with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, to see if their license is suspended or scheduled for suspension.

If scheduled to suspension, reach out to the Mr. William “Ray” Graves, at RayGraves@flhsmv.gov. He is the Chief of Motorist Compliance for the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. He’s tracking the issue and the impact on military members. In your e-mail, include the following information:

  • Name
  • Driver’s License number
  • A copy of current orders
  • A copy of insurance card

The good news? Members with USAA insurance have had the issue corrected on their behalf, but you’re still encouraged to confirm your status with the state of Florida. Also, adds Hood, “We have heard that this issue can be resolved within a few hours, but recommend prompt action to avoid any issues.”