Registration
Airman and Family Readiness Center
500 Minnesota Avenue
325 FSS/FSFR
Building 747
Tyndall AFB, FL 32403
Phone 850-283-4204
Phone (DSN) 312-523-4204/4205
Fax 850-283-4220
Fax (DSN) 312-523-4220/4226
Mon - Fri 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Sat – Sun - closed
Holiday - closed
Registration & Licensing Requirements
Florida State law requires you to have sufficient liability insurance and a valid driver’s license in order to operate a vehicle. The term “vehicle” generally includes automobiles, motorcycles, vans, trailers and boats regularly parked or garaged overnight. Further, your vehicle must be properly registered. Even though you are in the Military, you may be required to register your vehicle in-state and obtain an in-state license within a few months of moving. Access complete information on insurance, driver’s licensing, and where and how to register your vehicle by visiting the State Department of Motor Vehicles website.
State Laws
You and your passengers must always wear seatbelts while driving, you will be ticketed and issued heavy fines if seatbelts are not secured. State law requires that all children under 3 years of age be properly restrained in child seats. Some states also require younger, smaller children to sit in the back seat.
Motorcycles and their operators are subject to special laws. If you own and operate a motorcycle, you must comply with those laws. Visit the State Department of Motor Vehicles website for more information.
Many States and local jurisdictions have strict laws about the use of cell phones and other digital devices while driving. Research these laws on the State Department of Motor Vehicles website. Tickets will be issued and fines assessed for violating these laws. Play it safe and always use a “hands free” device if you must use a cell phone or other PDA while driving. Hands-free devices must be used while operating a motor vehicle on ALL military installations worldwide.
Obtaining a Driver's License
Active duty military and their dependents stationed in Florida are not required to hold a Florida license if they have a valid license from another state. Exceptions are:
- If the service member or spouse claims homestead exemption (Florida residency), then all drivers in family must obtain a Florida license.
- If the service member or spouse becomes employed outside the military, in Florida he/she must obtain a Florida license.
- If a child becomes employed in Florida then only the child who drives must obtain a Florida license.
New Florida residents have 30 days after establishing residency to apply for a Florida driver's license. First-time applicants may obtain a restricted operator license at age 15 with parental consent. New residents are required to pass only a vision examination if they have a valid driver's license from another state.
A new license costs $20 and is valid for 6 years. License renewal is $15 and replacement cost is $10.
Base Regulations
Seat Belts -- Seat Belt use in Florida and Tyndall AFB is mandatory, as well as is use of age-appropriate child safety car seats. Contact the Tyndall Ground Safety Office at (850) 283-4231 for further information on child safety car seats.
Local Motor Vehicle Registration
Non-resident military members stationed in Florida by military orders are not required to obtain a Florida plate. Automobile license renewals are determined by the month of birth. Active duty non-resident military who tag and title a vehicle in Florida, are exempt from the initial registration fee.
Please note: If you purchased a vehicle overseas through the military vehicle sales program you will have to pay a "Florida Usage tax" which can be very expensive if you plan to register the vehicle in the state of Florida. Please check your home of record to see what the regulations for registration require.
Boat License
A copy of the title and registration (if previously registered in another state) and a valid driver's license or other form of identification are necessary. Boat registrations are renewed 1 June through 30 June every year.
Homes Near Base
