Every state requires vehicles to be registered, and Florida is no exception. All vehicles must have a valid tag and title attached. If you have purchased a vehicle from a dealership, the hard work is done for you and you simply need to sign your name to the title. The process is a little more difficult when it comes to moving states or purchasing from a private seller, however.
In order to register a vehicle in Florida, you must have at least:
- Valid Florida driver's license
- Completed title
- Proof of auto insurance
- Registration and applicable tax fees
- Odometer/mileage verification
- VIN verification
Some situations may have additional requirements.
Basic Registration Fees
Registering a vehicle can be done online or in person. For a vehicle that is being registered for the first time in Florida, the fee is around $225. Fees also depend on the type and weight of the vehicle and the registration period, which can either be one or two years. For example, vehicles that weigh less than 2,499 pounds — and are not used for commercial use — cost between $27.60 and $55.50 for one or two years. Some fees, such as the original registration fee, are waived for military members in Florida. Military members must be able to provide exemption information along with basic paperwork.
How Much Does It Cost To Transfer A Title In Florida?
Transferring a title from a private seller is relatively cheap. Transferring a Florida registered paper title costs about $77.75 while transferring an out-of-state paper title is around $87.75. Keep in mind that sight limits and other factors still apply. Filing electronically is generally cheaper than filing by paper, as it can waive certain filing fees. Registering a vehicle from out of state — even from a private seller — is $225.
Be sure to keep all paperwork from the transaction. In certain situations, you may be required to prove you own the title to the vehicle. In some instances, getting the title of the vehicle can be complicated. There are ways to work around it while you seek the original title, such as getting a title bond. A title bond serves as proof that you own the vehicle when the original title is damaged, lost or otherwise irretrievable. In Florida, title bonds cost $100 for as much as $6,000. Rates go up by $15 for every thousand dollars in coverage.
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