'Operation Green Light' to assist drivers with overdue tickets, suspended licenses

LEE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK)—The Lee County Clerk and Comptroller's "Operation Green Light" offers drivers with suspended licenses or overdue traffic tickets a chance to resolve their fines and regain legal driving status.

The event waives the 25% collection surcharge for those whose fines have gone to collections. Special payment plans will also be available during the event.

Operation Green Light will take place April 14-17 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lee Clerk's office at the Justice Center in downtown Fort Myers and the Cape Coral branch. On April 17, the final day, the Justice Center location will remain open until 6 p.m.

Customers can call 239-533-5000 and select option 2 to speak with a clerk or schedule an appointment online.

Since 2020, Operation Green Light has saved customers millions of dollars in collection fees and helped thousands of people become eligible to get their licenses back. Last year's event in Lee County resulted in 326 licenses reinstated, 973 cases paid in full and $220,152 in collections and other fees waived.

During Operation Green Light, customers may enter into affordable monthly payment plans for traffic cases and criminal court fees. Cash, credit card, check or money order will be accepted, though exact change is recommended for cash payments and a fee applies to credit card transactions.

Community service is an option for certain qualifying fines. Customers need to clear any cases in other counties as well if they intend to reinstate their license.

Additional fees to the Tax Collector are required to reinstate a driver's license.