Driving in Florida

The operator of a motor vehicle must possess a valid driver’s license and a vehicle registration or rental information while driving on Florida roads. Driver’s and front seat passengers are required by law to wear seat belts, although it is a good idea that all passengers wear a seat belt. Children under the age of three must travel in a child safety seat and may NOT be in the front seat. Children four to five years of age must be in a safety seat or wear a seat belt.

(This is the one that gets most visiting drivers!) Right turns are permitted after a complete stop at red lights unless otherwise posted.

Florida law required headlights be used during rain storms.

The speed limit on interstate highways ranges from 55 mph to 75 mph. On city streets and congested areas the limit normally ranges from 20 mph to 55 mph. All speed limits are posted and strictly enforced.

DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE!!! Florida has adopted very tough policies regarding driving while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, some of the toughest in the nation. (Blood alcohol levels of .08 percent of higher are prohibited.)

Public Transportation

Public Bus Authority
LYNX Buses (407) 841-8240

Public Transportation on International Drive (I-Drive)
I-Ride Trolley (407) 248-9590

A number of taxi, shuttle and limosouine services are available. Rates for taxi service average $2.50 for the first mile and $1.50 for each additional mile traveled. ONLY use cabs with meters!

More than a dozen rental car companies have fleets in Orlando and throughout Central & South Florida t=with each having its own rental policies. Gecco Marketing recommends Budget Rent-a-Car, with whom we have been doing business with since 1999. Call our customer service department for special details and seasonal rates.

The driver/renter of a rental car in Florida must have a valid driver’s license, a major card, and normally must be 25 years of age or older. Additional driver fees may apply.

Mass TransportaTion

Amtrak / AutoTrain  1-800-USA-RAIL

Greyhound Bus  1-800-231-2222

Orlando International Airport  (407) 825-2001

Taxes

There is a 6-7% general sales tax (varies by county) on all merchandise except “necessary” grocery items and medicine.

There is a 2-5% resort tax levied on all hotel rooms and condo stays, in addition to the general sales tax. Again, the resort tax differs depending on the county.

Safety Tips

It is always a good idea to keep in mind the following safety tips when traveling:

  • Always lock your front and/or patio doors when in your hotel/condo and when leaving. Use the safety chain/lock for additional security.
  • Never open the hotel room door unless you know who is there. If you did not call for the hotel service offered by the person at the door, call the front desk or hotel security and ask if they sent anyone to your room.
  • Place your valuables into a hotel safe if available, either in your room or at the front desk when leaving your room.
  • When checking into a hotel, consult the floor plan map in case of an emergency. Maps are usually located on the inside of the hotel room door and note emergency exits and exit paths.
  • While driving, keep your doors locked.

Don’t Forget to…

Bring Identification:
Drivers licence, Passport, Insurance Card for the entire family.

Bring Sunscreen!
Believe us on this one. You will thank us later, especially if you are traveling in the summer time. The sun in Florida can be pretty harsh on the uninitiated or on people from the northern locales not used to the constant sunshine.

Bring Travelers Checks, Credit Cards and/or A Check Card:
Unfortunately everything costs money, so don’t forget to bring some or make sure you have a way to get it. We recommend leaving your checkbook at home and bring either traveler’s checks or plastic.

Stay Hydrated:
If you are not accustomed to life in the Florida sun – Remember to drink plenty of water. Eat regular meals that aren’t too heavy. Breakfast is very important to a relaxing vacation and most local hotels offer free breakfast buffets for all guests. Don’t skip meals – Coffee is NOT a meal!

Plan ahead:
Feel free to use the attraction links within our website to see what you may want to visit. Ask friends and family what they did while they were here.

Dress Accordingly:
Check out the weather reports and forecast before coming to Florida to know what you may need to pack. You probably don’t want to be stuck buying clothes when you get here!

And most importantly… HAVE FUN!