Florida Driver License Changes May Delay Vote-by-Mail

Nokomis voters who renew their driver licenses after July 31, 2024, may encounter delays when requesting ballots by mail online.

Florida's new driver license format includes four randomly generated numbers. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles implemented the change to enhance security. Elections offices use driver license numbers to verify voters' identities when they vote by mail or submit petitions.

The new number format can confuse the state's online vote-by-mail system, potentially blocking requests. In-person voting remains unaffected.

Nokomis residents renewing licenses in person can update their voter records simultaneously at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Those who already received new licenses should update their voter records with the elections office. Residents can visit the elections office website or call the Vote-by-Mail team at 941-861-8618 for help with online requests.

The change will not prevent anyone from voting. For questions, call Voter Services at 941-861-8619.