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Florida homestead exemption
A tax exemption is an important benefit that offers Florida residents the opportunity to save hundreds of dollars in property
taxes. The homestead exemption is the most common and valuable exemption, providing savings every year a homeowner owns
and resides in his or her primary home.
Florida’s constitution provides for a $25,000 exemption, which is deducted from a property’s assessed value if the owner
qualifies. Every person who owns and resides on real property in Florida on January 1st and makes the property his or her
permanent residence is eligible to receive a homestead exemption up to $50,000. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes,
including school district taxes. The additional exemption up to $25,000 applies to the assessed value between $50,000 and
$75,000 and only to non-school taxes. Applicants who file by March 1st, possess title to the real property, and are Florida residents
living in the dwelling and making it their permanent home as of January 1st, qualify for the exemption.
Your Florida driver’s license
The State of Florida requires all newcomers who drive to apply for a Florida driver’s license within 30 days of becoming a
resident. Drivers who currently possess a valid out-of-state driver’s license and have a driving record free of violations are only
required to pass a vision test. Drivers who have offenses against their license or drivers attempting to acquire a license
for the first time must also pass a written exam as well as a driving test.
Auto registration
If you are moving to Florida, the state’s law requires that you register a vehicle within 10 days after engaging in an occupation in
Florida or enter a child in a Florida school. You need to first obtain a Florida driver’s license. Next you need to purchase auto
insurance from a company licensed in Florida. At the Department of Motor Vehicles, you will also need your original out-of-state
title and VIN verification.
When you are issued a motor vehicle registration, you will receive a license plate, vehicle registration certificate, and
validation decal.
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