Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Office of the Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez Achieve Partnership to Streamline Students Driver Licensing Process

The Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office is committed to implementing effective and sustainable operational practices to enhance accessibility to driver’s licensing services to every county resident. Recently, the Honorable Dariel Fernandez and the Miami Dade County Public School Board Members, achieved a a partnership to streamline students driver's licensing process for minors eligible to restricted licenses ages 16 and above.   

According to FLHSMV's 2023 data, thousands of 16 and 17-year-olds in Miami-Dade County apply for learner’s permits and driver’s licenses annually. However, many students face challenges such as long wait times, limited access to transportation, and financial constraints. To mitigate these barriers, the Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) -through an initiative sponsored by District 5's School Board Member, Danny Espino,- and and the Tax Collector’s Office, are exploring a collaborative student driver licensing program.  

Currently, M-DCPS offers “Behind the Wheel” instruction at 12 schools, providing students with crucial driver education. However, the program's expansion to all high schools is not feasible due to resource constraints. A strategic partnership between M-DCPS and the Tax Collector’s Office would introduce alternative student driver programs, ensuring broader access to licensing services and essential road safety education.   

“A special thanks to School Board Member Danny Espino for his leadership and collaboration on this effort,” said Tax Collector Fernandez. “Together, we are working to bring practical solutions like on-campus licensing, fast track appointments, and expand driving education opportunities to students across Miami-Dade. I am looking forward to seeing H-11 moving ahead.”  

Proposed Collaboration Opportunities:  

• On-Campus Licensing Services: Establish mobile DMV units or pop-up offices at high schools to process learner’s permits, driver’s licenses, and renewals. Scheduled visits would allow students, teachers, and parents to complete vision tests and submit necessary documents on-site.  

• Integrated Driver’s Education & Licensing: Expand driver’s education programs to incorporate official testing, enabling students to complete the written exam as part of their coursework. Hands-on driving instruction would be provided using school vehicles and certified instructors, culminating in on-campus road test opportunities.  

• Fast-Track Appointments for Students: Introduce priority DMV appointment slots for M-DCPS students to minimize wait times at local offices. Additionally, a dedicated portal would be developed for students to schedule appointments and review licensing requirements conveniently.  

• Financial Assistance & Scholarships: Offer fee waivers or discounts on licensing fees for low-income students. Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to sponsor driver’s education and licensing costs for eligible students.  

• Driver Safety & Education Campaigns: Organize workshops on safe driving, insurance policies, and the consequences of distracted and impaired driving. These events would feature guest speakers from law enforcement and insurance agencies. A peer mentorship program would also be introduced, where experienced student drivers guide younger students on road safety.  

This initiative calls upon the Superintendent of Schools to assess the feasibility of a formal collaboration with the Tax Collector’s Office. The Superintendent will also explore potential funding sources and community partnerships to ensure the program’s long-term sustainability and effectiveness. By integrating licensing services with educational programs, this initiative aims to enhance accessibility, reduce logistical barriers, and reinforce vital driver safety education.