Related videos:
The Miami-Dade County has launched the Green Light Operation, an initiative by the court clerk and comptroller Juan Fernández-Barquín aimed at helping residents reclaim suspended driver's licenses and resolve judicial delinquencies without collection fees for a limited time.
According to the official information, the program will be available from October 6 to 19, 2025, and aims to reduce the number of suspensions across the county.
During these two weeks, residents who meet the requirements can pay online, by phone, or in person for pending fines and costs related to traffic, parking, minor offenses, and criminal cases, without collection fees (average savings of 30% on accounts in collections). To reinstate the license, the reinstatement fee is 60 dollars.
“This program is not just about numbers; it's about people: the single father who takes his child to school, the employee who relies on his car to get to work, the student trying to make it to class,” Fernández-Barquín said to NBC Miami while presenting the initiative.
The Green Light Operation also took place in April, when approximately 250,000 dollars in fees were waived.
In Miami-Dade, over 85,000 people have suspended licenses—with areas like Brownsville nearing 7,000—mostly due to unpaid fines, failure to appear for court dates, accumulation of points, among other reasons. Testimonies collected by the county reflect that, by eliminating collection fees, some users only pay what they owe and immediately recover their licenses.
The office of the Court Secretary has established payment plans for traffic fines, misdemeanors, and court costs, as well as remote assistance to address inquiries and locate the nearest court branch. A voicemail box and a dedicated email have also been made available to manage cases during operations.
With biannual operations, the county aims to alleviate financial burdens, restore access to services that require a valid license, and improve road safety by regularizing suspended drivers. "Helping people get back on the road" —summed up Fernández-Barquín— is the central purpose of the campaign.
Changes to driver's licenses in Florida
This year, the state of Florida implemented a series of measures that significantly affect legal immigrants residing in its territory. Among them is the use of the new REAL ID starting May 7 and the annual renewals of driver's licenses for those who are not permanent residents.
The Florida House of Representatives passed a law that penalizes the resale of appointments at DMV offices, a practice that had caused frustration among users due to the hoarding and resale of free slots.
The legislation turns this activity into a first-degree misdemeanor, with penalties that include fines of up to $1,000 and jail sentences of up to one year.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Green Light Operation in Miami-Dade
What is Operation Green Light in Miami-Dade?
The Green Light Operation is a program in Miami-Dade that aims to help residents reinstate their suspended driver's licenses. The initiative allows participants to pay outstanding fines and fees without penalties during a specific period, helping to reduce the number of suspensions in the county.
When will the Green Light Operation be available in 2025?
The Green Light Operation will be available from October 6 to October 19, 2025. During these two weeks, residents who meet the requirements will be able to regularize their situation more economically and easily.
What are the benefits of participating in the Green Light Operation?
Participating in the Green Light Operation allows residents to pay fines and costs without collection surcharges, saving up to 30% on overdue balances. Additionally, it facilitates the recovery of a suspended driver's license, enabling participants to regain access to services that require a valid license.
How can Miami-Dade residents reinstate their suspended driver’s licenses?
Residents can restore their suspended licenses by paying fines and outstanding fees online, by phone, or in person during the Green Light Operation. Remote assistance is offered to address questions and payment plans are available to facilitate the process.
Are there other initiatives in Miami-Dade to improve access to driver's licenses?
In addition to the Green Light Operation, Miami-Dade has implemented a new appointment system for driver's licenses. This technology-backed system aims to reduce long lines and improve the efficiency of the process, as well as prohibit the illegal resale of appointments.
Filed under: