Is there a close-in-age exemption in Florida?

The provision people have in mind is far narrower than its reputation.

Florida law includes a mechanism, sometimes called the Romeo and Juliet provision, that in defined circumstances allows a person to petition for removal of the requirement to register as a sexual offender. It applies where the age difference falls within a specified range, where the conduct was consensual, and where other statutory conditions are met.

What it does not do: it does not make the underlying conduct lawful, it does not prevent a prosecution, and it is not automatic. It's a petition, filed after the fact, subject to conditions and to the court's determination.

There are also provisions addressing the effect of a lawful marriage in certain circumstances, which are similarly narrow.

The practical implication is that people rely on a general impression that a close age gap makes conduct legal, and that impression is incorrect. The relief that exists is relief from registration, applied for later, in limited circumstances.