The Florida Senate

Tallahassee, Fla. – Members of the Senate Community Affairs committee passed SB 1766 today to repeal a state statute regarding driving requirements for international visitors. Transportation Committee Chairman, Senator Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg) said, “This bill does more than correct an oversight in thelaw, it promotes tourism. Visitors from all over the globe choose Florida as their vacation destination and we want ensure they are able to travel across our state with ease.”

In 2012, revisions were made that require nonresidents to obtain an International Drivers Permit (IDP) to operate a vehicle in Florida. Under the International Provision of Road Traffic of which the United States is a signatory, the state cannot require that type of license. This bill will put the state in line with international driving laws while saving Florida visitors the expense and hassle of acquiring an international license.

VISIT FLORIDA announced earlier this month that according to preliminary estimates, tourists spent a record $71.8 Billion in 2012 marking a 6.8% increase in spending over 2011. Florida’s tourism industry is critical to Florida families as it serves as a vital source of revenue to the state and a key driver of employment.

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