Moving from Puerto Rico to Florida: what you need to know

• A certified Puerto Rico birth certificate. Those issued before July 2010 are no longer valid — request a new one from the Demographic Registry.
• Social Security card and passport (if you have one)
• Your Puerto Rico driver’s license
• Your vehicle title, if you’re bringing the car
• School and vaccination records for your children
• Your professional licenses and transcripts

As a new resident you have 30 days to get a Florida license. Book an appointment at your county Tax Collector’s office and bring your identity documents, your Social Security number and two proofs of your Florida address. Requirements for transferring a Puerto Rico license can change, so confirm them at flhsmv.gov before you go.

Shipping a car from Puerto Rico takes time and money. Compare the full cost (shipping, insurance, and Florida’s $225 initial registration fee for vehicles new to the state) against selling it there and buying here. If you bring it, you’ll need the title, a VIN verification and Florida insurance before you can register it.

Plan Vital (Puerto Rico Medicaid) and PAN do not transfer. You must apply again in Florida through ACCESS Florida. To avoid going without medication in the meantime:

• Fill 90-day prescriptions before you leave.
• Request a copy of your medical records.
• While your case is pending, use a community health center.

Nurses, teachers, technicians, barbers, cosmetologists and contractors need a Florida license to work here. Some professions allow transfer by endorsement; others require an exam. Look up your profession with the DBPR or, for healthcare, the Florida Department of Health — and start before you move if you can.

As a citizen you can vote in federal elections from Florida, including for president. Register at registertovoteflorida.gov with your Florida license or the last four digits of your Social Security number.