ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.
On Tuesday, Trooper Steve was asked by a a viewer named Lisa, “Tried to renew my tag online. Required me to go in person. What requires this?”
[Watch video below for Trooper Steve’s explanation]
Ah, yes, the digital DMV door slam.
When the online portal politely tells you, “Nope, not today,” it usually means something behind the scenes needs your attention.
If you’re being told to visit in person, it’s likely because the state of Florida wants to have a little chat with you — DMV-style.
Don’t worry, it’s not always serious, but it’s definitely something worth clearing up.
In most cases, even if your registration is expired, you can still renew it online, although you might have to pay a late fee.
But if you’re blocked from doing that, it’s often because:
- You owe something: The most common culprit is unpaid tolls. Florida takes those SunPass debts seriously, and they’ll put a hold on your renewal until you settle up.
- More serious issues: Sometimes it’s not just tolls. If you have unpaid child support or a court order hanging over your head, that can trigger the in-person requirement.
- Clerical hiccups: Occasionally, it could be something as simple as a flag on your license or outdated personal info. Nothing dramatic, but it still needs a human to clear it.
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If the internet won’t let you renew your registration, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. The fix might be as easy as paying a few bucks, or it might require a little extra paperwork and face-time at your local tax collector’s office.
Whatever the reason, the sooner you take care of it, the faster you’ll be back on the road legally — and without those renewal headaches.
If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.
[Video below answers this question: Can I drive barefoot in Florida?]