How to Gift a Car in Florida
Last verified: October 2026 against FLHSMV and Florida DOR sources
Florida does not charge sales tax on a car given as a gift between individuals, whoever the recipient is, as long as nothing is paid and no loan is taken over.
Here is how to transfer a gifted car.
Step by step
- 1
Make sure it is a gift
No payment of any kind is made, in money or otherwise, and the recipient does not take over an outstanding lien. If the giver is also the lienholder, the transfer is treated as a sale.
- 2
Transfer the title
The giver completes the title transfer section with the odometer reading. For an electronic title, both of you visit a motor vehicle service center with photo ID.
- 3
Claim the exemption on the title application
On the Application for Certificate of Title (HSMV 82040), declare the gift exemption and include a sworn statement with a description of the vehicle, the giver’s name and address, and statements that nothing was paid and no lien is being taken over.
- 4
Insure and title within 30 days
Get Florida PIP and PDL insurance and apply at a motor vehicle service center within 30 days. Title and registration fees still apply, plus the $225 initial registration fee if you have no Florida plate to transfer.
- 5
Keep the plate rules in mind
The giver keeps their plate. You transfer your own plate or get a new one.
When tax is still owed
- Any payment is made, in money or otherwise.
- The recipient takes over an outstanding loan on the car.
- The giver is also the lender (lienholder).
- A sale between relatives is taxed like any other sale.
What to bring
- The title, transferred by the giver with the odometer reading
- HSMV 82040 with the gift exemption declared and a sworn statement
- Proof of Florida PIP and PDL insurance
- Photo ID
- Payment for title and registration fees