Florida’s data marketplace, linked to the DMV, has made about $490 million. This money came from selling private records of drivers. It’s a big deal.
Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman has introduced HB 357, the Motor Vehicle Operator Privacy Act. It aims to stop the DMV from selling driver and ID data to companies. The goal is to protect personal info from being used for marketing and insurance purposes.
For those with a Florida driver’s license, this is important. The DMV has sold a lot of personal info. This includes names, addresses, and even emergency contacts. People are upset and want this to stop.
If the bill passes, it will ban the sale of driver data to companies. It will also require consent for sharing personal info. It will take effect on July 1, 2026. Former CFO Jimmy Patronis thinks this is a good move.
For more on this, check out this report from Florida Politics. Drivers are now thinking about who should control their driver’s license info.
Overview of Florida’s proposed Motor Vehicle Operator Privacy Act
Florida lawmakers are considering a new privacy bill. It aims to change how the state handles driver’s licenses. The bill focuses on getting consent, clearer notices, and limits on selling personal data.
It also sets rules for how records move across borders. This is important for those who follow the out of state drivers florida bill. It affects how driver’s license requirements are enforced.
Who filed the bill and why it matters now
Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman of Highland Beach introduced HB 357. She did this after hearing from people with identity issues related to driver’s license renewals. They felt they never got a chance to opt out.
Many leaders were unaware of how wide the sales had become. The push for privacy rules is growing nationwide. Drivers want to know how their records are used and if they need to consent to data sharing.
What data sales have looked like in Florida to date
State records show about $490 million from DMV data sales from 2013 to 2023. Over $260 million of this was from 2021 to 2023. The data included names, addresses, and photos, among other things.
This data also included driving history and emergency contacts. These fields are what many expect to stay private. The scope of the data sales is a topic of debate in the out of state drivers florida bill arena.
Key dates: committee referrals and proposed effective date
HB 357 is being reviewed by the House Government Operations Subcommittee and the State Affairs Committee. The 2026 Legislative Session starts on January 13, with committee work already underway.
If passed, the bill will take effect on July 1, 2026. This means new rules will guide how driver’s license records are handled during renewals. It will also affect how driver’s license requirements interact with consent.
| Milestone | Detail | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Bill Sponsor | Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman | Sets the privacy focus on driver’s license data tied to FLHSMV practices. |
| Committee Referrals | House Government Operations Subcommittee; State Affairs Committee | Determines debate schedule and scope for florida license driver records. |
| Historical Revenue | ~$490M from 2013; >$260M in 2021–2023 | Shows the scale of data sales that triggered reform and stricter driver’s license requirements. |
| Data Types Involved | Names, addresses, DOB, photos, driver’s license numbers, histories, donor status, contacts | Illustrates what may be restricted, with implications for out of state drivers florida bill debates. |
| Proposed Effective Date | July 1, 2026 | Targets a clear start for new protections during renewals of a driver’s license. |
What data the DMV has been selling and to whom
Florida’s motor records system has always made some data public. This allowed companies to buy and use it. People started getting mailers and ads, showing how this data was being used.
Personal identifiers: names, addresses, dates of birth, and driver license numbers
Florida driver license files include names, addresses, and more. This lets companies match these records with other data. They use it for quick checks.
These details also help in combining data. They can link to shopping history or where someone has been. This is useful for businesses.
Sensitive fields: photographs, organ donor status, emergency contacts
Some records include photos, organ donor info, and emergency contacts. These are more private but useful for checking identities. They also carry a lot of personal info.
Companies say they use this data to prevent fraud. But, people often don’t know their personal info is being shared.
Behavioral and event data: driving histories, crash records, vehicle details
There’s also data on driving history, crashes, and vehicle info. This shows how a driver has used their license. It’s like a report card for driving.
Experts look at this data to find patterns. They wonder about certain codes, like “iss” on driver licenses. It helps them understand the data better.
Recipients: data brokers, insurance analytics, marketing firms, foreign-owned companies
Many companies get this data, from brokers to insurers and marketers. Brokers sell it, insurers use it for risk, and marketers target ads. It’s a big market.
One driver’s license record can go through many hands. Each time, it reaches more people. Even with rules, it spreads widely.
How HB 357 would change access to DMV records
HB 357 changes who can see, share, and profit from DMV data. It puts privacy first with the driver’s license holder, not the data buyer. This law aims to match how we think about records with how they’re used when we apply or renew our licenses.
Ban on commercial sale and third-party risk scoring
The bill stops the sale of driver and ID info for profit. It also blocks insurers and analytics firms from using DMV records for marketing or profiling. This includes “shadow rating” models that track drivers even when they’re not at fault.
Written consent for non-law-enforcement disclosures
For non-law-enforcement, you need to give written consent to share your info. This rule gives you a clear choice when you’re getting a driver’s license or renewing it.
Restrictions on foreign and foreign-owned companies
Foreign and foreign-owned companies can’t access DMV records. This limits who can get your driver’s license info and reduces data misuse.
Public reporting and retroactive privacy protections
HB 357 requires public reports on who gets DMV data and why. It also protects your privacy retroactively, ending contracts that allow data sales. This ensures your driver’s license is for identity and driving status, not for data markets.
Insurance “shadow rating” and why it’s targeted
Florida’s bill aims to stop “shadow rating.” This is when insurers mix DMV data with other info to set prices. It affects everyone, from new drivers to long-time license holders. The bill changes how risk is scored and what records count.
How non-driving data hikes premiums despite clean records
Clean driving should be the main factor in pricing. But, private scoring often adds extra information. This can make rates go up for drivers with no safety issues.
When non-driving info is more important than a driver’s record, it feels unfair. A driver’s license becomes a tool for confusing pricing.
ZIP codes, income indicators, and vehicle profiles in private models
Insurers use ZIP codes, income, and vehicle types in their models. These can increase rates, even with no accidents or tickets. The scores seem scientific but are based on outside clues, not driving records.
Requirement to rely on verified state driving records only
HB 357 wants insurers to use only state-checked driving records. This means risk will be based on real driving history. Drivers will be judged fairly when renewing or applying for a license.
| Rating Input | Current Private Models | HB 357 Standard | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving History | Blended with external scores | Verified state driving records only | Centers pricing on actual on-road behavior |
| ZIP Code | Common as a risk proxy | Not a basis for risk scoring | Prevents location from steering rates |
| Income Indicators | Used via credit or education proxies | Excluded from DMV-tied scoring | Reduces non-driving bias in premiums |
| Vehicle Profile | Weighted with market signals | Used only with documented safety factors | Aligns car traits with verified risk data |
| Third-Party Scores | Purchased and proprietary | Eliminated for policy pricing | Improves transparency for drivers |
Follow the money: revenue from DMV data sales
Florida’s motor vehicle data has become a steady cash stream. Audits and figures show about $490 million made from 2013 to now. Over $260 million came in just 2021–2023. This affects everyone with a driver’s license, whether renewing online or at a tax collector’s office.
The revenue touches routine moments—from getting a driver’s license to reporting a lost one. People say these moments can lead to unwanted mail. This makes the money trail feel very personal.
About $490 million made from 2013 to now, with over $260 million from 2021–2023
Florida’s records show a slow start, then a big jump. Recent years saw bigger contracts and more data sold. People renewing or replacing their driver’s license cards often get marketing soon after.
How Florida compares to other states’ DMV data marketplaces
The market is national. InvestigateTV found hundreds of millions across 23 states in 2024. VICE and Newsweek showed big differences in access and pricing. Florida is among the top earners, thanks to its large population and tourism.
In many states, vendors use aggregated records. When Floridians renew or report a lost driver’s license, it adds new data. This is why Florida’s totals are so high.
Transparency concerns raised by residents and officials
Floridians got mailers from lawyers and sales pitches after renewals. Gossett-Seidman said even senior officials didn’t fully understand. Former CFO Jimmy Patronis called it “horrible” and wanted it stopped.
Residents want clear notices when renewing or reporting a lost driver’s license. They want to know who sees their info and why.
Voices and reactions from around Florida
Drivers across Florida are sharing their concerns about their data when they get or renew a driver’s license. Their stories highlight the importance of trust in how the state handles this information. From Miami to jax fl, people are speaking out about their experiences.
Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman’s privacy and trust arguments
Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman believes Floridians must give personal details for a driver’s license. She says the state must protect this information. She argues that driver’s license records should be used for public safety, not for profit.
Residents reporting unwanted mail and solicitations
Floridians are getting a lot of unwanted mail and calls after DMV visits or minor tickets. Some get ads from stores they’ve never been to, days after renewing their license. In jax fl, drivers are worried about how their data is being used.
Comments from former CFO Jimmy Patronis calling the practice “horrible”
Former CFO Jimmy Patronis called selling driver’s license data “horrible.” He wants action to stop it. He believes every driver’s license holder should be protected from commercial use of their data.
| Stakeholder | Core Concern | Illustrative Impact | Geographic Reach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman | State duty to protect mandatory data | Driver’s license details limited to essential use | Statewide, including jax fl |
| Residents | Unwanted mail and in-person pitches | Targeted ads after dmv driver’s license actions | Urban and rural communities |
| Jimmy Patronis | Scale of sales and lack of notice | Push to halt commercial access to records | Statewide policy influence |
Implications for Florida driver license holders and privacy
Drivers in Florida are curious about new privacy rules. These rules could change how we interact with the DMV. They focus on personal data linked to driver’s licenses and how companies access it.
What changes drivers may see when they renew their florida driver license
Renewal screens and forms might ask for clearer data use consent. People renewing their driver’s license will see written consent boxes. These boxes explain data sharing in simple terms.
Old data sales contracts will end. This means fewer third parties will get bulk data. Renewal times and options stay the same. But, you’ll see more about who can access your records.
Consent, opt-outs, and marketing limits impacting jax fl and statewide residents
People in jax fl have seen mailers from DMV data before. Now, with consent rules, opt-outs will be easier. Marketing lists tied to driver’s license records will also be more limited.
Public reports will show who has access to your data. This will be true in jax fl and all over Florida. It gives drivers a way to track their data.
How this intersects with driver’s license requirements, fees, tests, and renewals
The main process stays the same. You’ll meet the driver’s license requirements, pay fees, and pass tests when needed. Renewals also follow the usual steps. A Florida driver’s license remains valid for the same amount of time.
The big change is in how data is handled. Agencies will collect the same information for a driver’s license. But, they’ll share it less, focusing on consent and resale limits. Service lines and scheduling will stay the same.
Practical notes for consumers navigating DMV services
Day-to-day DMV tasks continue as usual. You can apply for a driver’s license, renew it, or replace a lost one without new steps. HB 357 focuses on data sharing, not who gets services or how fast you get to the counter.
Apply for driver’s license, renew driver’s license, replace or report a lost driver’s license
When applying, bring proof of identity, Social Security, and where you live. You can apply at a tax collector office or a state service center. Renewals can be done online or in person if you qualify.
If your card is lost, report it fast to prevent misuse. Most places let you replace it the same day after checking your identity. Fees and testing rules stay the same under HB 357.
Understanding what is ISS on driver license and how records are used
Many ask about the ISS on driver’s licenses. It shows when the license was issued. It helps track renewal times and how the DMV uses records.
The federal DPPA allows limited record use. HB 357 aims to limit commercial sharing. But, agencies and law enforcement can keep accessing records as before.
Out of state drivers florida bill context and dmv driver’s license data access
Out-of-state drivers in Florida might deal with Florida records after accidents or citations. HB 357 would limit commercial access to data, even if your home license is from another state.
Insurers and compliance teams can use verified records for legal reasons. The change is about stopping third-party marketing and risk scoring from DMV data.
Avoiding confusion with unrelated terms like florida bill of sale or sale bill
The privacy bill is different from ownership documents. A florida bill of sale records a vehicle transfer. It protects buyers and sellers. Dealers and private parties use it to record the sale’s details.
A sale bill proves car ownership but doesn’t affect DMV data. Keep these terms separate to avoid delays when replacing a driver’s license or verifying details after losing one.
| Task | What to Bring | Where to Start | HB 357 Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply for driver’s license | Identity, Social Security, two proofs of Florida address | Tax collector or state service center; testing as required | No change to workflow; limits commercial data sharing |
| Renew driver’s license | Current license, address updates, vision if requested | Online if eligible or in-person renewal | Process stays the same; reduces external marketing use |
| Replace driver’s license / report lost driver’s license | Identity verification and report of loss | Online replacement or local office visit | Same steps; tighter controls on commercial access to records |
| Understanding ISS field | Check the ISS date on the card | Use ISS to plan timing for renewal | No procedural shift; clarifies record timelines |
| Vehicle transfer documents | florida bill of sale or sale bill with VIN and price | Buyer and seller retain copies; title transfer follows | Unrelated to data sharing; keep separate from license services |
Note: Keep ownership forms like a bill of sale for car florida distinct from licensing tasks to prevent processing errors.
Key timelines, committees, and what to watch next
HB 357 is making its way through Tallahassee. It’s all about privacy rules for driver’s licenses and how data moves to private companies. People watching this bill closely will see important milestones coming up.
Current status: House Government Operations Subcommittee and State Affairs Committee
The bill is now in the House Government Operations Subcommittee and the State Affairs Committee. Expect staff analyses, fiscal notes, and draft amendments to shape the bill. These will focus on consent standards, limits on foreign access, and new reporting rules.
Committee agendas will show when hearings, questions, and changes will happen. This helps everyone understand when the bill might change and what new rules could come.
No Senate companion yet and the 2026 Legislative Session timing
There’s no Senate bill yet, and the 2026 Legislative Session starts on January 13. Early committee weeks are already happening. This means the bill’s language could get tighter fast once hearings start.
Reporters, advocates, and those watching the bill will be waiting for a Senate filing. They’ll also look for joint workshops and cross-chamber agreement on data restrictions for driver’s licenses.
Projected effective date: July 1, 2026, if passed
If the bill passes both chambers and is signed, it will take effect on July 1, 2026. This gives agencies time to update contracts, check data sharing, and tell every driver about new privacy steps.
Media coverage is showing strong public interest. It’s also highlighting the current size of data flows. This sets the stage for a detailed debate on handling driver’s license records in Florida.
Conclusion
Florida’s HB 357, the Motor Vehicle Operator Privacy Act, aims to give back control of driver data to the public. It stops the sale and sharing of driver’s license records for commercial use. It also bans marketing and third-party risk scoring, and limits access by foreign companies.
It requires written consent for sharing data with non-law enforcement and mandates public reporting. This includes stopping current contracts tied to driver’s license data.
The stakes are high. Florida has made about $490 million from these sales, with over $260 million in 2021 and 2023. Many people link unwanted mail to DMV interactions. Former CFO Jimmy Patronis called it “horrible.”
This debate is about consent, transparency, and whether a driver’s license should be used for marketing.
If passed, the changes will affect every driver in Florida. Renewing a driver’s license could mean clearer consent forms and less third-party use of your info. The aim is to keep personal data for state purposes, not for market use.
HB 357 is now in House committees, with no Senate bill yet. It’s set to start on July 1, 2026. As the bill progresses, drivers should follow updates. The outcome will impact how Florida handles driver’s license data and privacy.
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