How to Become a Florida Resident

Regardless of your reasons to become a Floridian, there are steps you must take so that you can enjoy full residency and everything this beautiful state has to offer.

Becoming a Florida resident is, indeed, a great decision and an exciting endeavor. This article will give you crucial information about becoming a legal resident of Florida so that nothing will come as a surprise.

File a Declaration of Domicile

If you're moving to Florida and want to start life as a Florida resident, you'll first need to file the Declaration of Domicile. The Declaration of Domicile is a document that declares your intent to claim residency in Florida. It can be filed electronically or by mail, and you must have been domiciled in Florida for at least six months before filing it. This is an essential step in becoming a legal Florida resident, and documents can be filed electronically or by mail.

The Declaration of Domicile requires you to have been domiciled in the state for at least six months before applying for it. There are several other requirements, too, like owning property or having your spouse work here legally. In addition, if you are married and want to file jointly with your spouse, both of you must have been domiciled in the state for at least six months before filing. You should also know that there are penalties associated with providing false information on this form.

Apply for Florida’s Driving License

There are several ways of getting your Florida driver's license if you're not already a resident. The first option is filing for residency and waiting at least six months until the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issue you a new driver's license with your new address. The second option is applying for it after filing a declaration of domicile in Florida. Please note that you only have 30 days to get your driver's license after filing a Declaration of Domicile.

If you already have a valid out-of-state driver's license, you'll not be required to take driving tests before acquiring a Florida driver's license. However, if you don't know how to drive or intend to drive, you should get a Florida state ID.

Register Your Vehicles

For a car in the state of Florida, registration must be done in person at a local tax collector's office or online via e-registration.  In addition, if your vehicle isn't currently registered with another state, it'll require an emissions test, title, and registration, which costs around $225 depending on the type of inspection chosen, age, model, and weight of your car.

Get a Florida-Based Insurance for your Vehicles

Florida insurance is something that many people fail to consider when they are moving into the state. If you have a vehicle, you must get Florida insurance for your cars or risk being pulled over and fined.

If you don't register your vehicle within ten days of moving to Florida, you'll need to pay an additional fee. It's essential to understand the type of available coverage options to make an educated decision.

Register to Vote

To become a resident of Florida (and be able to vote), you will need to register at your local Supervisor of Elections office by applying with proof of identification and residence. To register, you must be at least 18 years old and have been a legal resident of the state for 30 days.

Open a Local Bank Account

If you're moving to Florida, you have the opportunity to open a local bank account. This is a crucial step in becoming a resident because it will help you save money on taxes. Opening a local bank account in Florida will also help you pay your bills and get discounts for being a Florida resident.

Notify the ATF

When you move from out-of-state, you need to notify the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) by providing them with a copy of your driver's license so they can update their records for firearm transfers.

Obtain a Florida Homestead Exemption

If you're considering moving to Florida and becoming a resident, you should apply for the Florida Homestead Exemption. This exemption will give you many benefits to save money on your taxes and improve your quality of life.

Disconnect with Your Old State/Nation of Residence

When becoming a Florida resident, you should cut ties with your old home. You can accomplish this by changing your driver's license and registration to Florida, updating your estate plan, canceling subscriptions/memberships/frequent flyer accounts, transferring bank accounts, etc., as well as voting absentee in the next election.

Conclusion

Becoming a resident of Florida is not as difficult as you may think. The process takes time, but it can be done. The most important thing you need to do is figure out where you’d like to live in Florida and then follow the steps discussed in this post to become a resident of the Sunshine State.