How to Register a Car in Florida From Another State

Jacob Owen
Oct 20
4 min read

Introduction

Moving to Florida or purchasing a vehicle from another state comes with its own set of paperwork—and one of the most important steps is registering your car with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Whether you’ve bought a used car or brought your existing vehicle from another state, registering it properly ensures that you’re driving legally under Florida’s rules. Understanding the process ahead of time can save you time, stress, and potential penalties. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to register a car in Florida from another state, including the required documents, costs, and helpful tips for a smooth registration process.

Understanding Vehicle Registration in Florida

When you relocate to Florida or purchase a vehicle from another state, state law requires that you register your car within 30 days of establishing residency. Residency can be established by obtaining employment, enrolling a child in school, or living in Florida for a set period. Registration connects your vehicle to your Florida address and provides proof that you’ve paid all necessary taxes and fees.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before heading to your local tax collector’s office, it’s important to have the correct documents on hand. The FLHSMV has strict requirements, and missing paperwork can delay your registration. You’ll need the following:

Proof of Ownership – This is typically your vehicle’s title. If your title is held by a lienholder, they must send it directly to the FLHSMV.
Proof of Florida Insurance – Florida is a no-fault state, meaning you must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance from a company licensed in Florida.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Verification – The VIN must be verified through a completed Form HSMV 82042, which can be signed by a law enforcement officer, a licensed dealer, or a Florida notary.
Valid Photo ID – A Florida driver’s license or a valid out-of-state driver’s license with proof of Florida residency.
Proof of Florida Residency – Examples include a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement.

Having these documents ready will make your visit to the tax collector’s office quicker and easier.

Step 2: Complete a Vehicle Inspection

If your car was previously registered in another state, you’ll need a VIN and odometer verification. This ensures that your car hasn’t been stolen or altered and that mileage records are accurate. The inspection can be completed by:

A Florida DMV compliance examiner,
A licensed Florida notary public, or
A law enforcement officer.

If your car is already titled electronically through your previous state, Florida may also verify it through their online system.

Step 3: Pay the Required Fees and Taxes

The cost of registering a car in Florida from another state varies depending on several factors, such as the type of vehicle, its weight, and whether it’s new or used. Some of the main fees include:

Initial Registration Fee: $225 (applies to those who did not previously have a Florida license plate).
Title Fee: $77.25 for an electronic title or $78.25 for a paper title.
License Plate Fee: Based on the type and weight of your vehicle.
Sales Tax: If sales tax wasn’t paid in your previous state or was less than Florida’s 6%, you’ll need to pay the difference.

Keep in mind that these fees are mandatory for first-time Florida registrants. If you’re transferring your tag from another vehicle, you may save on costs.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve gathered your documents and paid your fees, head to your local county tax collector’s office or FLHSMV service center. You’ll submit:

Your completed application for a certificate of title,
Proof of insurance,
Vehicle inspection verification form, and
Payment for all fees.

After processing, you’ll receive your Florida license plate, registration sticker, and title. If you have a lien, the title will remain electronic until the loan is paid off.

Step 5: Update Your Driver’s License and Address

If you’ve just moved to Florida, you’ll also need to obtain a Florida driver’s license within 30 days of becoming a resident. This can be done at the same time as your registration to simplify the process. Make sure your address matches on all documents, as discrepancies can lead to delays.

What If You Bought a Used Car from Another State?

When buying a used car from another state, you’ll follow similar steps as above, but there are a few additional things to consider:

Check for Liens: Make sure there are no outstanding liens on the car before purchasing it.
Bill of Sale: Keep a signed bill of sale with the vehicle’s purchase price, VIN, and seller’s details.
Out-of-State Title Transfer: If the car was titled in another state, you must surrender that title when applying for a Florida title.
Emissions Requirements: Florida does not require emissions testing, but your car must meet safety and VIN verification standards.

Having all these elements in place ensures that your purchase is legitimate and that your registration process goes smoothly.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Registration Process

Schedule an Appointment: Florida DMV offices can be busy. Scheduling an appointment in advance can help you avoid long waiting times.
Double-Check Insurance Requirements: Only Florida-licensed insurance companies are accepted, so make sure your policy is valid.
Keep Copies: Make digital and paper copies of all documents submitted during registration.
Renew on Time: Florida registrations typically last for one year. Renewal can be done online, by mail, or in person.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to transfer your out-of-state title before registration.
Providing incomplete or incorrect VIN verification.
Forgetting to switch to Florida insurance coverage.
Missing the 30-day registration deadline after establishing residency.

Avoiding these common errors will help prevent unnecessary fees or penalties.

Conclusion

Now that you understand how to register a car in Florida from another state, you’re well-equipped to handle the process with confidence. Whether it’s a new purchase or a used car you’ve brought along from your previous residence, completing the registration ensures that you comply with Florida’s motor vehicle laws. With the right preparation and documents in hand, you’ll be driving legally under the Florida sun in no time.