Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez Statement On Enforcement Action Against Illegal Driving And Traffic Schools Operating Without State Approval

Let me be absolutely clear. Residents and business owners have come forward and provided compelling evidence that illegal operations are taking place. Any individual or entity claiming to operate a driving school or traffic school in the State of Florida without the proper licenses, permits, and approvals required by law is operating illegally. This is not a minor violation. These unlawful operations put residents at risk, deceive families who believe they are receiving legitimate instruction, and undermine public safety as well as the integrity of our systems. This conduct will not be tolerated.

As the agency responsible for issuing driver licenses in Miami-Dade County, the Tax Collector’s Office has a duty to protect our residents and ensure that driving-related services are provided in a legal and transparent manner. For this reason, we will be actively identifying companies that are operating outside the law and taking appropriate action in coordination with state authorities.

Additionally, residents will be able to find on our official website a list of driving schools that hold the required licenses and approvals in accordance with the requirements of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Our commitment is to provide clear information, protect families, and ensure that only legitimate and properly authorized providers operate in Miami-Dade County.

Florida law is explicit. Under Florida Statutes §318.1451 and the rules of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), driver improvement courses commonly known as “traffic school” must be approved by FLHSMV. There are no independent traffic schools in Florida. Any school offering these courses must have a valid contract with a driver improvement course provider that has been formally approved by FLHSMV.

Additionally, Florida Statutes §318.1451 requires that approved course providers comply with specific statutory obligations, including meeting established curriculum standards and submitting course completion information as required by law. Operating, advertising, or collecting fees without meeting these approval, contractual, and reporting requirements is not permitted under Florida law.

Individuals or businesses that falsely present themselves as licensed driving or traffic schools, or that offer driver improvement services without meeting these statutory requirements, are violating the law and misleading the public. This conduct disrespects legitimate providers who comply with the law and places residents in harm’s way.

Additionally, we will continue working closely with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, along with state authorities and law enforcement, to ensure full enforcement of the law. Your time is up. Our office, in coordination with these agencies, will take decisive enforcement action against illegal operations. We will shut them down, hold violators accountable, and continue protecting residents. Compliance is not optional. The law will be enforced.

God Bless Miami-Dade County, and God Bless the United States of America

Dariel Fernandez

Tax Collector

Miami-Dade County