10/28/2026
👏 A BIG SHOUT-OUT TO OUR TEAM! 👏
We’re proud to recognize Amanda A, Cherrylyn, Stephanie, Jessie, and Devin for representing the Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office at the 2026 Okaloosa County Driver’s License Clinic!
Hosted by Judge Angela Mason and the First Judicial Circuit, this annual event brings multiple agencies together to help residents navigate the process of reinstating their driving privileges and getting back on the road legally.
Our team played an important role in helping participants understand their requirements, navigate outstanding fees, and take steps toward restoring their driving privileges. Through preparation, teamwork, and a commitment to public service, they helped make the process more accessible for residents working to get back on track.
The impact goes beyond a driver’s license. It can mean greater independence, access to employment, and an opportunity to move forward. We’re honored to be part of an initiative that helps break the cycle and makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors.
💙 Thank you, Amanda, Cherrylyn, Stephanie, Jessie, and Devin, for your dedication, compassion, and for representing our office so well! Your hard work reflects our commitment to serving the people of Okaloosa County.
DRIVER'S LICENSE CLINIC: Okaloosa County residents caught in a cycle of unpaid fees, suspended licenses and new tickets got a chance to start digging out Friday, Oct. 23, at the 2026 Okaloosa County Driver’s License Clinic at the Okaloosa County Courthouse Annex Extension in Fort Walton Beach.
The annual clinic, held by Judge Angela Mason and the First Judicial Circuit, is a “one-stop shopping” event that puts the court, the Okaloosa County Clerk of Courts, the Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office, the Florida Department of Revenue and other agencies in one place to help residents restore driving privileges that have been revoked, suspended or cancelled.
Of about 100 registrants, 47 qualified, including seven inmates. Eleven participants left with an express pass to get their license at the DMV, and the inmates were placed on payment plans or signed up for classes.
“It means the system is working,” Judge Mason said of helping people get their licenses back. “Because punishment and accountability are the cornerstone, but so is rehabilitation. When a person is wanting to do better, we have to give them that opportunity.”
Okaloosa County Clerk of Courts Brad Embry said financial impacts are the leading cause of what he called the “revolving door effect.” He said what starts as a civil penalty can become a criminal offense if a person is caught knowingly driving on a suspended license.
“It’s a snowball effect,” Embry said. “People have to go to work. People have to pay the bills, and they need their driver’s license to do that, typically.”
Full story: https://getthecoast.com/okaloosa-drivers-license-clinic-helps-residents-inmates-break-the-cycle-of-suspended-licenses/
