If you have recently moved to Cape Coral, well, Congratulations !
However, before you drive to the beach and start putting on sunscreen, there are a few changes that will, likely, make your road to the shoreline much smoother.
Here in Cape Coral, we can boast many unique lifestyle offerings that might account for why we are often referred to as "Paradise". But if you don't take the time to get a few things in order, it's possible that you'll miss more than a few sunsets before you ever see the beach...because you'll have to walk to get there !
Obviously, you'll need to get a Florida Driver's license for starters. The primary reason is that our Sunshine State only affords you a ten-day grace period before you are declared in violation of the law. You can roll the dice but, if you get stopped, the fine is hefty. If you want to renew your license, visit the Cape Coral Drivers' License Bureau at 413 Van Loon Lane, Suite #110 ( off Cultural Park Boulevard ) as they are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM and Tuesdays and Thursdays until 6:00 PM, but call first and schedule an appointment at (239) 458-4139.
Now it's time to check out your insurance. If your present carrier doesn't offer coverage for the Sunshine State, you'll need to get that, too. Because Florida is a "No-Fault" state, drivers are required to carry liability insurance with at least $10,000 in personal injury and bodily protection.
Alright, you'll need a tag for that ride now. Just like the license, you've only got ten days before you're an outlaw ! So, find the title and bring that new insurance card, as it will require those to secure your registration. Unless you've just bought a new convertible for cruising the beach, bring along your current registration, as well. If your vehicle requires a new plate, that costs an extra $100 dollars. So, if you've just moved here from Idaho, there's no way around it.
The fine folks down at the Cape Coral Branch of the Lee County Government Center are around from 8:30 until 4:30 to answer any questions you may have regarding your particular vehicle, although to quote the outgoing message, "..phone calls are not recommended." You can give them a call at (239) 533-6000 and the recorded message will direct you to additional resources.
Now that you're legal to drive to the beaches, you may want to set-up your car with a transponder for getting over the bridge. Check out the LeeWay website and find out the particulars that best suit your beach travel frequency.
Now, where's that beach umbrella and those shades ?
Greatest Cape
http://www.greatestcape.net/article.php/license_tag_resources_en