How long can you stay in DROP? (96 months, not 60)

The DROP time limit

Current rules let you delay termination for up to 96 calendar months from the date DROP participation begins. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.3]
The DP-11 itself states: "my DROP participation cannot exceed a maximum of 96 months." [FRS Form DP-11 (rev 08/26)]
Where 60 months still appears: an elected officer who deferred termination under s. 121.053, F.S., on or before June 30, 2023, cannot extend DROP participation beyond 60 months. [FRS Form DP-11 (rev 08/26)]
There is no penalty for delaying DROP entry and still participating for the full 96-calendar-month period after you reach normal retirement. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.17]
Eligible K-12 instructional and certain administrative personnel may extend up to 24 calendar months beyond the 96 months using Form DP-EXT; this provision expires June 30, 2029. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.15]
If you change FRS employers, your total DROP with all employers still cannot exceed 96 calendar months (unless an authorized extension applies), and a break of one calendar month or more ends DROP. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.18]