‘Zero tolerance for fraud': Miami tightens driver's license procedures
On social media, Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez issued a stern warning to those seeking driver's licenses issued by the state of Florida that his office, where driver's license applications are currently processed, will not tolerate fraud related to documentation submitted by applicants.
'Using false documents to obtain a driver's license or state ID is a crime. In Florida, driving privileges are only granted to those who meet all legal requirements, including proof of legal presence and verified residency,' he wrote on his X account on Thursday.
'As Miami-Dade County Tax Collector, I am committed to protecting the integrity of our services. No more shortcuts. Zero tolerance for fraud,' he added.
Fernandez emphasized potential attempts to misuse or manipulate the system by submitting documents that do not meet verification standards, including fake bank statements or utility bills (water or electricity), to obtain a driver's license or REAL ID.
He also stated that the document constituted a 'privilege' and not a right. He clarified that providing false documentation constituted a crime.
'The use of fraudulent documents not only violates the law, but also undermines the trust we strive to build in our community,' he said.
'As Miami-Dade County's tax collector, I am fully committed to protecting the integrity of our services. Our office is strengthening fraud protocols, implementing new technology, and training our staff to identify and prevent these illegal attempts,' he stated.
Increased demand for driver's licenses
Since early May, the REAL ID has become standard for domestic travel at U.S. airports, a requirement that Florida drivers' licenses and identification cards meet.
These documents also serve as proof of regularized immigration status in the country, amidst the ongoing operations and raids by several federal agencies targeting illegal immigration.
Last month, a new state regulation went into effect limiting the term of the validity of driver's licenses for certain legal immigrants.
Meanwhile, Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) centers have faced long lines and chaos in Miami amid increased demand for driver's licenses and REAL IDs.
In response to the chaos, the Miami-Dade tax collector's office decided to incorporate such procedures for the benefit of taxpayers. Fernández has opened several new offices, while promising to expand services to other areas of the county where they are currently unavailable.
To get a driver's license in Florida, you can present several identification documents, including:
▪ Permanent residence card or green card
▪ Proof of Social Security Number
▪ Bank or credit card statements
▪ Public service receipts, such as water, electricity, and gas, in the applicant's name.
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