Courtesy of VoteRiders
As of July 31, 2024, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) began issuing new DI numbers on driver licenses and state IDs (Florida Statute 322.14 (1)(a)). The appearance of Florida IDs wil remain the same but any individual who renews or replaces a Florida driver license or state DI either online or in person will now receive a new DI number.
This new number will include at least four randomly generated digits to enhance security and protect personal identity. It wil remain consistent unless the person legally changes their name.
KEY IMPACTS FOR VOTERS
This change has direct implications for Florida voters, especially when requesting Vote-by-Mail (VBM) ballots or signing petitions. Elections offices retain the DI number that was on file when a voter last registered, so almost al offices wil have old DI numbers for voters. As a result, when a voter uses a newly issued license or state DI with the new number requirements, the election systems are unable to match ti to their existing record. Additionally, requests for VBM or returned petitions may be delayed or rejected.
WHAT VOTERS SHOULD DO
Fortunately, Florida’s statewide online voter registration system allows voters to update their registration with their new DI number and will correct local elections voter files.
fI a voter has renewed or replaced their Florida driver’s license or state DI since July ,12024, they must update their registration to ensure their most up-to-date DI number is in their voter record. This wil help prevent issues with Vote-by-Mail ballot requests or petition participation.
Are you planning to vote by mail with a new ID in Florida this year?
Your request for a mail ballot may be rejected unless you update your voter registration with your new ID number!
What’s going on and how you can fix it
If you renewed or replaced your Florida driver’s license or state ID on or after July 31, 2024, you need to update your voter registration with your new ID number.
There are a few ways you can do this:
- Go to RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov. Click “Register or Update,” then “Request to Replace Voter Information Card.” Enter your new ID number & complete the form.
- Call your local Elections Office to update your ID number. You can also request a mail ballot!
- When submitting a voter registration form, check the “Update or Change” option. Then, sign, date, and mail to your county Elections Office.
Need help? Call or text us at 866-432-8683 VOTERIDERS
