FSU Biology - FSU Biology - Graduate Studies - Establishing Residency
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Biological Science - Graduate Studies

Florida State University

Be sure to visit the FSU Admissions page on Establishing Residency

Tips for establishing legal ties to Florida

You will need to obtain the following documentations NOW so that you can apply for residency in one year. It is your responsibility to retain copies of all documentation and receipts for payment of documents.

It is recommended that you submit as many required documents as possible to justify your claim of Florida residency for tuition purposes; however, no claim of residency will be valid without at least one of the following documents and at least three documents total. (see the Admissions residency page for a full list).

  • Florida Driver's license, or a State of Florida identification card for non-drivers
  • Florida vehicle registration
  • Florida voter registration card
  • Declaration of domicile in Florida ("filed date" must be 12 months prior to first day of classes)
  • Lease agreement and proof of 12 consecutive months of payments
  • Utility bills and proof of 12 consecutive months of payments
  • Bank records

Declaration of Domicile

This can be obtained at the courthouse located on 301 S. Monroe Street, Room 123. The approximate cost is $15. You will need to bring a government-issued ID. You will be signing a sworn affidavit attesting the date that you moved to Tallahassee. The office hours are Monday- Friday 8:30 am-5pm. (You will need to park on the street)

Florida Driver's License and Vehicle Registration

You can get a Florida Driver's License at one of the Motor Vehicle Service Centers (see below). Be sure to bring your social security card and your current driver's license. You will be giving up your current driver's license. You can visit their website for additional information on moving to Florida

For Vehicle Registration, Bring your current title, insurance card and information, driver's license, social security card and charge card or checkbook. Plates will cost approximately $100.00 in addition to other fees that vary for each student. For more information on vehicle registration visit FAQs on Registration of Motor Vehicles

Map to locations and website: Customer Service Locations

Location Street Address
I-10 and Thomasville Rd 1276 Metropolitan Blvd, Suite 102
Westside 870-1 Blountstown Hwy
Southside 3477 South Monroe Street
Cross Creek (Apalachee Parkway) 1210 Capitol Circle. SE
Lake Jackson 3840 North Monroe St, Suite 102

Hours at all locations: Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm

Voter's Registration

You will need a voter's registration card when you apply for residency. You can get this when you get your driver's license. A Voter's registration card will be mailed to you approximately two weeks after you apply for your Florida driver's license.

Last updated 2016 November