Titling a Car in Florida After Moving From Another State
Last verified: October 2026 against FLHSMV and Florida DOR sources
If you move to Florida with a car from another state, Florida law requires you to title it here, not just register it, and the deadline is short.
Here is what to do and what to bring.
Step by step
- 1
Mark the 10-day deadline
Register an out-of-state vehicle within 10 days of becoming employed, placing children in public school, or establishing residency in Florida.
- 2
Get Florida insurance
You need proof of Florida PIP and PDL insurance from a Florida insurance company.
- 3
Get the VIN verified
A vehicle not previously titled in Florida needs a VIN and odometer verification (HSMV 82042), done by an FLHSMV compliance examiner or officer, a licensed Florida dealer, a Florida notary public, or a police officer.
- 4
Title and register in person
At a motor vehicle service center, bring proof of identity for all owners, Florida insurance, your original out-of-state title, and HSMV 82040 signed by all owners. If a lienholder holds your title, the lienholder must send it.
Fees include the $85.25 title fee for a used vehicle titled in Florida for the first time, registration by weight, the $225 initial registration fee if you have no Florida plate to transfer, and $28 for a new plate.
- 5
Check whether use tax applies
Florida’s 6% use tax applies to a vehicle brought in within six months of purchase, with credit for sales tax paid to another state (you pay any difference). A vehicle used in another state for six months or longer is presumed not bought for use in Florida.
What to bring
- Proof of identity for all owners
- Proof of Florida PIP and PDL insurance
- Your original out-of-state title (or the lienholder sends it)
- HSMV 82040, signed by all owners
- VIN and odometer verification (HSMV 82042)
- Payment for title and registration fees, the $225 initial registration fee if it applies, and any use tax