Are you a car enthusiast or a beginner looking to register your vehicle in Florida? Whether you’re a new resident or a current one seeking to renew your registration, understanding the process and associated costs is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of registering your car in Florida and shed light on the expenses involved.
Registering an Out-of-State Vehicle in Florida
If you’ve recently moved to Florida and plan to become a resident, you have 30 days to register your out-of-state vehicle with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). To be considered a Florida resident, you must have a Florida living address, be employed in Florida, or have children enrolled in a Florida public school.
Here’s what you’ll need to do to register your out-of-state vehicle:
- Obtain a Florida driver’s license.
- Get auto insurance that’s valid in Florida.
- Complete a VIN check and provide an official odometer reading.
- Prepare a certificate of title.
Next, visit the Florida county tax collector’s office with the required documents:
- Florida driver’s license
- Proof of valid auto insurance
- Out-of-state title
- VIN and odometer reading
Once at the tax collector’s office, present a form applying for a Certificate of Title, register your car for one or two years, and submit the VIN and odometer reading. Be prepared to pay approximately $225 for the registration fees.
Sales Tax for New Florida Residents
If you are a new resident registering your vehicle in Florida, you’ll be charged a sales tax based on the duration of ownership and your choice of license plate. For vehicles owned less than six months, a 6% state sales or use tax is applicable, along with any required local taxes. This tax is pro-rated depending on taxes paid in other states. Vehicles owned for more than six months are exempt from sales, use, or discretionary taxes.
Different Registration Options
Depending on how you acquire your car, the registration process may vary:
Option 1: Dealership Purchases
Authorized dealerships can file registration on your behalf, and you’ll receive a temporary license plate. If the dealer fails to complete the registration within 30 days, you may need to visit the county tax collector’s office to finish the process. The registration fee will be disclosed separately from your contract.
Option 2: Leasing Registration
For leased vehicles, dealers can handle the registration process. Be aware of limited mileage contracts and consider your options carefully.
Option 3: Car Bought from a Private Seller
If you purchase from a private seller, you’ll need to fill in the titling form and registration yourself. Always check the vehicle history and complete the necessary forms before visiting the tax collector’s office.
Option 4: Personalized License Plates
For a personalized touch, you can order personalized license plates by visiting a DHSMV office in person. The process incurs an extra $15 annual fee.
Registration Costs
So, how much does it cost to register a car in Florida? Registration fees in Florida vary based on the weight of your vehicle and the registration period:
- Cars up to 2,499 pounds: $27.60 for one year, $55.50 for two years.
- Cars between 2,500 to 3,499 pounds: $35.60 for one year, $71.50 for two years.
- Cars 3,500 pounds or more: $46.50 for one year, $91.20 for two years.
- $225 registration fee for cars never registered in Florida.
Vehicle Registration Renewal
To renew your Florida registration, you can do it online at gorenew.com. The fee will depend on your vehicle type and weight. Antique cars and motorcycles have reduced renewal costs. Ensure you have valid insurance before renewing online, or you may need to visit a DHSMV office.
Conclusion:
Registering and renewing your car in Florida is a straightforward process with different options to suit your needs. By understanding the requirements and associated costs, you can easily navigate through the procedures and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience in the Sunshine State.
