Every vehicle you own in Florida needs a Florida registration certificate and license plate, and usually a Florida title. The title proves ownership, the registration and plate let the car on the road, and insurance comes first.
Know the rule
Non-residents who take a job or run a business in Florida, or enroll children in a Florida public school, must get a Florida registration certificate and plate within 10 days after starting work or enrollment.
Handbook p. 45 ↗For those non-residents to register a vehicle in Florida
Handbook p. 45 ↗Know the rule
You also need a Florida Certificate of Title, unless an out-of-state lien holder or lessor holds the title and won't release it to Florida.
Handbook p. 45 ↗Know the rule
To get a registration and plate you must show proof of Florida insurance and prove ownership with your certificate of title. You can't get a plate until you have a title.
Handbook p. 45 ↗Know the rule
A vehicle previously titled or registered in another state must have its VIN verified by a designated official before it can be titled and registered in Florida.
Handbook p. 45 ↗VIN verification is NOT required for:
- Any new vehicle, bought in Florida or out of state
- New or used mobile homes
- Travel trailers, camp trailers, truck campers and fifth-wheel recreational trailers
- Trailers and semi-trailers weighing less than 2,000 pounds
Know the rule
A Florida dealer must apply for your title, registration and plate. If you buy from an individual, get the title from them and apply for a title in your name.
Handbook p. 45 ↗Know the rule
First-time applicants with an out-of-state license should get a Florida driver license before registering their vehicle in Florida.
Handbook p. 45 ↗Know the rule
Your vehicle must always have a current license plate, and you must always carry its registration when you drive.
Handbook p. 45 ↗When registrations expire
| Vehicle | Renew by |
|---|---|
| Most vehicles | Midnight on the first listed owner's birthday |
| Mobile homes, semi-trucks/semi-trailers | December 31, yearly |
| Company/corporation vehicles and some CMVs | June 30, yearly |
Know the rule
Plates and registrations are renewed each year or every two years. You may renew up to 90 days before expiration, and each time you must prove the required insurance unless it's on file electronically.
Handbook p. 45 ↗Put it into practice
You buy a used car from a neighbor. Get the signed title from her, show proof of Florida insurance, and apply for the title, registration and plate at a service center. You can do all three at once, but the plate can't come before the title.