In a major step to protect residents and improve access to essential government services, new local and state laws now make it illegal to sell or market appointments for driver license services in Broward County.
The Broward County Commission unanimously passed Ordinance 2025-20, and Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 961 into law. Together, these actions address a growing issue that has impacted residents trying to secure timely appointments for critical services.
What the New Laws Mean
Under both the county ordinance and state law, it is now unlawful for any individual or company to:
These protections apply to services provided by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office.
Why This Matters
For years, third-party actors have exploited appointment systems by reserving large blocks of time slots and reselling them to residents. This created unnecessary barriers, forcing people to pay for services that should be free and accessible.
Abbey Ajayi, Broward County Tax Collector, played a key role in bringing attention to this issue. By engaging both county leaders and state legislators, she helped drive forward policies that prioritize fairness and accessibility.
“This is a win for our customers. Public services, like driver license issuance, must be delivered to residents with integrity and efficiency.”
Penalties for Violations
The new laws include strict consequences to deter bad actors:
These enforcement measures are designed to eliminate exploitation and ensure appointment systems remain fair for everyone.
Supporting Modernization Efforts
This legislation aligns with the Broward County Tax Collector’s broader efforts to modernize and improve service delivery. As the office prepares to take over driver license services in summer 2026, ensuring equitable access is a top priority.
By removing barriers and protecting appointment availability, these policies help create a more efficient, transparent, and customer-focused system.
What Residents Should Do
Residents are encouraged to:
Access to public services should never come at an extra cost.
The passage of these laws marks an important milestone for Broward County—reinforcing a commitment to fairness, accessibility, and public trust.