So You Want to Ride in Patriotic Style: A Guide to Military License Plates in Florida (Sunshine State Edition)
Florida's known for its beaches, retirees living their best lives, and... well, maybe not everyone knows about the awesome selection of military license plates. But fear not, fellow soldier (or soldier in spirit), this guide is here to help you ditch the boring old tag and rep your military pride with some Sunshine State flair.
How Do I Get Military License Plates In Florida |
Deciding on Your Badge of Honor (or Plate, Whatever)
Florida offers a bunch of military-themed plates, from honoring specific branches like the Air Force or Navy to recognizing veterans and those who've earned prestigious medals. Here's a quick rundown to get your patriotic juices flowing:
- Branch Basics: Show your Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, or Navy love with these classic plates.
- Medal of Honor? We Got You Covered: Earned one of those top military honors? There's a plate for that (and rightfully so!).
- Salute the Vets: General veteran plates or ones specifically for disabled veterans are available.
- Bonus Round: There are even specialty plates for the National Guard, Gold Star Families, and some veterans' organizations.
Pro Tip: Feeling fancy? Many of these plates can be personalized – because nothing says "Murica" like a custom military plate that reads "SEMPER FI, KAREN." (We don't recommend that specific personalization, but you get the idea.)
Gearing Up for Battle (At the DMV, That Is)
Alright, so you've chosen your plate. Now comes the not-so-thrilling part: the DMV. But fear not, warrior! Here's what you'll need to bring:
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
- Proof You're Not an Imposter: Military ID, DD-214 (discharge papers), or veterans ID card (depending on the plate).
- The Usual DMV Shenanigans: Driver's license, registration, proof of insurance (you know the drill).
- Patience and Possibly Snacks: The DMV is a battlefield of its own, so be prepared. Although, with these snazzy plates on the horizon, the wait should be a breeze, right?
Important Note: Requirements and fees can vary by county, so be sure to check with your local county tax collector's office before you head out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Boot Camp for Your Questions
How to find out what plates are available?
Check the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website (https://www.flhsmv.gov/motor-vehicles-tags-titles/). They have a handy brochure with all the options.
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
How much does it cost?
Fees vary depending on the plate, but typically it's the standard registration fee plus an additional specialty plate fee.
How long does it take to get my plates?
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
Processing times can vary, but it's usually a few weeks.
Can I get a disabled veteran plate if I have a service-connected disability rating less than 100%?
Unfortunately, no. The disabled veteran plate program is for veterans with a 100% disability rating.
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
How do I surrender my old plates when I get my new ones?
Your local tax collector's office will usually handle that when you get your new plates.
So there you have it, soldier! Now you're armed with the knowledge (and hopefully humor) to snag some sweet military license plates and proudly display your service in the Sunshine State. Remember, with these plates, you're not just driving a car, you're driving a symbol of freedom. Just try not to get too many tickets showing off your patriotism!