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Just moved to Florida and need to get a driver license and your car registered?

Arrow Graphic If you have an out-of-state license, and it has not expired beyond 30 days, you may be able to convert your license without taking a written or road test. Review the requirements for citizens and non-citizens.
Arrow Graphic Obtain vehicle insurance from a company licensed to do business in Florida--in other words, visit a Florida insurance agent.
Arrow Graphic Take your proof of Florida insurance; your original out of state title and verification of the motor vehicle's *vehicle identification number (VIN), completed on form HSMV 82040 or HSMV 82042 to your local Florida county tax collector's office. If there is more than one owner on the out of state title for transfer, all applicants must sign the application or all applicants must be present.
Arrow Graphic In the state of Florida, a motor vehicle is required by law to be registered within ten days of the owner either becoming employed, placing children in public school, or establishing residency. Registering your motor vehicle goes hand in hand with the titling process.
Arrow Graphic VIN verification is required for all USED motor vehicles not currently titled in Florida, including trailers with a weight of 2,000 pounds or more.

*The VIN must be verified by one of the following:
  1. A law enforcement officer from any state.
  2. A licensed Florida or out of state motor vehicle dealer.
    NOTE: If the VIN is verified by an out of state motor vehicle dealer, the verification must be submitted on their letterhead stationary.
  3. A Florida DMV Compliance Examiner/Inspector, DMV or tax collector employee.
  4. A notary public commissioned by the state of Florida.
  5. Provost Marshal (an officer who supervises the military police of a command) or a commissioned officer in active military service, with a rank of 2nd lieutenant or higher or an LNC, "Legalman, Chief Petty Officer, E-7".
If the out of state title is currently in the possession of an out of state lienholder, the tax collector's office will assist you in contacting the lienholder to obtain the title. The lien will be recorded on the Florida title when issued and will be mailed to the lienholder.


Sales Tax Information for Motor Vehicles
You bought it more than six months ago
If the motor vehicle was purchased six months or more before being brought into Florida, Florida sales or use tax or local discretionary sales surtax do not apply. You'll need to show proof that you used it for six months or more in another state or jurisdiction.

You bought it less than six months ago
If the motor vehicle was purchased and used less than six months in another state, territory of the United States or the District of Columbia, the full amount of the six percent Florida sales or use tax and local discretionary sales surtax is required. However, that is offset by the sales tax you paid in the prior jurisdiction. For example, if you owe 6% to Florida, but you paid 4% to another state, you will only owe 2% to Florida.


Other helpful information
Keys to Obtaining Your Florida Driver's License or Identification Card

Florida Driver's Handbook

Changing Your Address

Frequently asked questions on Registration of Motor Vehicles

Frequently asked questions on Getting a Hassle Free Title

Facts for Florida Vessel Owners

Organ Donor

Voter Registration

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