Driving In Miami
There are two types of transponders: the SunPass Mini and the SunPass Portable. The SunPass Mini costs $ 4.99 plus tax, and it must be permanently adhered to the inside of a car or truck’s windshield to work. The SunPass Portable costs $ 19.99 plus tax, but it’s removable, and drivers can place the device in a car, truck, or motorcycle. Transponders are available at all Turnpike service plazas, gas stations, and SunPass Service Centers. Drivers can also purchase a SunPass at well-known local retail locations and supermarkets like Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy, Publix, and Sedanos.
Start Your Free ConsultationA transponder has no funds upon purchase and will not work without a Prepaid Account with a minimum balance. You can register for a Prepaid Account over the phone, in person at a Walk-In Center, or online at sunpass.com. To complete the registration process, you will need your vehicle and license plate information along with a credit or debit card, ACH (checking / savings account), cash, check, or money order. The minimum balance needed to activate your Prepaid Account may vary based on the type of Prepaid Account you create, but for most people, the minimum balance is $ 10.00.
If you choose not to use SunPass but still use toll roads, the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) electronic toll collection system will photograph your license plate. Then, FDOT’s Office of Toll Operations can invoice you and other drivers at the end of 30 days for all tolls incurred during that period, plus a $ 2.50 administration charge. The price of each toll is usually double what SunPass customers pay. If you use Florida Managed Lanes without a SunPass, the Office of Toll Operations will charge you a daily fee of $ 25.00. These are usually the express lanes on a highway.
Once you’ve mounted the transponder to your windshield and replenished the minimum balance in your account, you’re ready to drive on Miami’s toll roads cost-effectively. The following is a breakdown of those toll roads and corresponding payment methods and fees:
| Tool Road | Available Methods of Payment | Price Tool |
|---|---|---|
| The Florida Turnpike | SunPass Only | Varies by Mileage |
| Everglades Parkway | SunPass Only and Tool Booths | $ 3.25 |
| The HEFT | SunPass Only | Varies by Mileage |
| Gratigny Parkway | SunPass Only | $ 2.00 |
| Broad Causeway | SunPass Only | $ 1.50 |
| Airport Expressway (SR 112) | SunPass Only | $1.40 |
| Venetian Causeway | SunPass Only | $ 3.00 |
| Dolphin Expressway | SunPass Only | $ 4.80 |
| Rickenbacker Expressway | SunPass Only | $ 3.00 |
| Don Shula Expressway | SunPass Only | $2.00 |
| Snapper Creek Expressway | SunPass Only | $ 1.00 |
Getting to Miami
If you’re planning a trip to Miami but don’t plan on driving there, you have other options to help you arrive at your destination, including:
How to Get a Driver’s License in Miami
The State of Florida is responsible for issuing driver’s licenses. A standard driver’s license is called a Class E driver’s license. Drivers between the ages of 15 and 17 can get a learner’s permit, later becoming a Class E driver’s license. The process to get either license is similar. Whether you’re applying for a learner’s permit or a driver’s license, you’ll need to do the following:
- Complete a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course or an equivalent course.
- Apply in person at a DHSMV Driver’s License Service Center. If necessary, you can make an appointment online.
- Bring documentation that provides proof of identity, social security number, and residential address.
- Pass the vision and hearing tests.
- Pass the Class E Knowledge and Skills Exam. Drivers can take this exam at the service center or through an authorized third-party administrator beforehand. Still, anyone who passes the exam through a third-party can be randomly selected for a mandatory re-test without prior notice.
- Have your picture taken.
- Pay the $48.00 fee and any other associated fees.
Parking in Miami
Parking in Miami is notoriously difficult, costs money, and can get complicated. The following table helps describe the parking situation in Miami Beach
| District Name | Area Covered | On-Street Rate | Parking Lot Rate | Registered Resident Rate | Hours of Enforcement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment District | Ocean Drive to Pennsylvania Ave and 5th Street to 15th Street | $4.00 an hour | $2.00 an hour | $1.00 an hour | $24 hours a day 7 days a week |
| South Beach Parking Zone | South of 23rd Street, except for areas within the Entertainment District | $4.00 ah hour | $2.00 an hour | $1.00 an hour | 9:00 am to 3:00 am 7 days a week |
| East Middle Beach Zone | From 23rd Street to 44th Street and from Collins Avenue to Indian Creek | $3.00 an hour | $2.00 an hour | $1.00 an hour | 9:00 am to 3:00 am 7 days a week |
| West Middle Beach Zone | North of 23rd Street and South of 63rd Street, except for areas within the East Middle Beach Zone | $1.00 an hour | $1.00 an hour (except for P71-46th Street Lot) | $1.00 an hour (except for P71-46th Street Lot) | 8:00 am to 6:00pm 7 days a week |
| North Beach Zone | North of 63rd Street | $1.00 an hour | $1.00 an hour | $1.00 an hour | 8:00 am to 6:00pm 7 days a week |
An app called ParkMe – Miami Beach can simplify your parking situation at Miami’s popular beaches. This app, available on the App Store and Google Play, can show you available parking near your destination with rates for lots and garages. Also, WhereiPark offers monthly parking around the city based off of your needs.
Whether you’re a native or a first-, second-, or third-time tourist, understanding the city’s roads and driving rules can help ensure your safety and to avoid a traffic accident while exploring beautiful Miami.
