Armed Forces Renewal Exemption (Chapter 455.02, F.S.)

Florida loves its veterans and military families. The state doesn't want soldiers worrying about paperwork while they are serving the country. If a licensee is an active duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces, they are exempt from all renewal requirements (including fees and continuing education). The licensee must be in good standing (not suspended/revoked) before they left. They cannot be using the license to work in the private sector for profit while on active duty (you can't be selling houses on the side while claiming the exemption).The exemption lasts while they are on active duty and for 6 months after discharge. This gives the veteran time to settle back into civilian life before dealing with the DBPR. Spouses Count Too: This exemption also applies to a licensed spouse of an active duty member if the military duties require them to be absent from the state. For example, if the husband is deployed to another country, and the wife has to go with him, her Florida license is frozen/exempt until she returns.