FL H1193

Rental companies may not rent vehicles to persons without a valid driver license (Florida residents) or equivalent license from their home state/country (nonresidents), with exceptions for those from unlicensed jurisdictions.

Rental companies must inspect and verify driver licenses before renting vehicles and maintain records including vehicle registration, renter name/address, license number, and issuance date.

Renting a vehicle in violation of license requirements or without verifying valid licensing constitutes negligent entrustment by the rental company.

Rental companies must ensure liability insurance coverage of at least $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident, and $50,000 for property damage before renting vehicles.

Licensed rental companies may sell primary motor vehicle liability insurance meeting statutory requirements and charge a fee up to 35 percent of the premium if authorized by the insurer to bind coverage and adjust claims.

The act takes effect July 1, 2016.