How To Get a Car Title in Florida 2026
All motor vehicle owners in Florida must obtain a certificate of title to establish legal ownership of vehicles operated within the state. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, operating through its Division of Motorist Services, administers the state's vehicle titling system and maintains ownership records for all titled vehicles throughout Florida. Owners must submit title applications within statutory deadlines following vehicle purchase or ownership transfer to maintain compliance with state requirements.
Where to Apply for a Florida Certificate of Title
Applications for a Florida certificate of title may be submitted through authorized processing locations throughout the state:
- Tax Collector Offices – County tax collector offices in all 67 Florida counties provide full title and registration services
- License Plate Agents – Private agents authorized by county tax collectors to process title transactions
- Motor Vehicle Dealers – Licensed dealerships may submit applications for vehicles sold through their establishments
- Online Services – Electronic submissions available for qualified transactions through the state's online portal
- Mail Processing – Complete applications with supporting documents may be sent to county tax collector offices
Required Documents for Title Application in Florida
To process an application for a Florida certificate of title, applicants must provide specific documentation to verify ownership and satisfy state requirements.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application for Certificate of Title (Form HSMV 82040) | Completed and signed by all registered owners | Must include vehicle identification number, year, make, model, and complete owner information |
| Proof of Ownership | Florida certificate of title with proper assignment, out-of-state title with endorsement, or manufacturer's certificate of origin | Previous owner must complete assignment section with signature and date |
| Proof of Florida Insurance | Evidence of current Florida liability insurance coverage | Must meet state minimum requirements and include policy number |
| Identification | Valid Florida driver license or identification card | Required for all owners listed on application |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Depending on transaction circumstances, supplemental documentation may be necessary:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VIN Verification | Physical inspection confirming vehicle identification number | Required for out-of-state vehicles, homemade vehicles, or when no Florida title exists |
| Lien Satisfaction | Documentation of security interest release | Required when previous title shows unreleased lienholder |
| Bill of Sale | Record of purchase transaction | Must show purchase price, transaction date, and signatures from both parties |
| Power of Attorney | Authorization for representative to conduct transaction | Must specify authority granted and include notarized signature |
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Federal requirement for vehicles less than ten years old | Must be completed on title or separate disclosure form |
| Import Documentation | U.S. Customs forms for imported vehicles | Required for vehicles imported from outside United States |
Florida Title Fees and Costs
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles establishes standardized fees for title-related transactions statewide.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Title | $77.25 | Original new |
| Certificate of Title | $85.25 | Original used |
| Title Transfer/Duplicate | $75.25 | Assessed when ownership changes |
| Lien only | $74.25 | No transfer of ownership |
| Registration Fee | Varies by vehicle weight | Calculated based on vehicle weight classification |
| License Plate Fee | $28.00 | For new registrations requiring license plates |
All fees are for Electronic Titles only. For printed titles, add a $2.50 service and handling fee. An additional $2 lien recording fee may also apply.
Additional Processing Fees
Applicants should anticipate variable costs based on specific circumstances:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sales and Use Tax | 6.0% of purchase price | Applied to taxable value; local surtax may apply by county |
| Initial Registration Fee | $225.00 | New residents registering vehicle for first time in Florida |
| Late Title Transfer Penalty | $20.00 | Assessed when title transfer not completed within 30 days |
| Duplicate Title | $75.25 | Replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged certificates |
| Expedited Title Service | $10.00 | Same-day processing when available at select locations |
| Lien Recording Fee | $2.00 | Per security interest notation on certificate |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Collect Required Documentation
Gather all necessary documents before starting the application process. Obtain the existing certificate with a complete and accurate assignment from the seller, ensuring proper signatures and dates are recorded. For out-of-state vehicles, arrange for a VIN inspection completed by authorized personnel. Verify your Florida automobile insurance policy is active and meets state minimum liability coverage requirements.
Step 2: Prepare Title Application
Obtain and complete Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (Form HSMV 82040) with accurate vehicle information. Enter all owner names precisely as they should appear on the title certificate. For joint ownership, specify whether owners are listed as "and" (requiring signatures from all parties for future transfer) or "or" (allowing any single owner to transfer). Include the full lienholder name and mailing address if vehicle financing exists.
Step 3: Calculate Total Fees
Determine the complete amount due as mentioned above. The calculation includes title issuance fee, sales and use tax computed on vehicle value, registration fees determined by weight classification, plate fees if applicable, and any additional charges for expedited service or supplemental documentation. Surtax rates vary by county and range from 0.5% to 1.5% additional. Prepare payment in the form of cash, personal check, money order, or major credit/debit cards accepted at tax collector offices.
Step 4: Submit Application Package
Present your complete application with all supporting documentation and payment to your selected processing location. Visit any county tax collector office during regular operating hours. For mail submission, send all materials to your county tax collector's office address. Ensure out-of-state titles are included with the application packet. Confirm all signatures are original and verify no corrections or alterations appear on any documents, as these will cause application rejection and processing delays.
Step 5: Receive Your Certificate of Title
After successful application processing and approval, the Florida certificate of title will be issued and delivered. When no security interest is recorded, the physical certificate is mailed directly to the owner at the address provided on the application within approximately two to three weeks. If a lienholder is documented, Florida participates in the Electronic Lien and Title system, and the title is held electronically by the lienholder until the loan is satisfied.
Processing time typically ranges from two to four weeks, depending on submission method and current application volume. Upon loan satisfaction, the lienholder releases the title electronically, and the owner may request a paper certificate for a fee or maintain the electronic title.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Florida law provides limited exemptions from certificate of title requirements, but may require registration:
- Motorized bicycles with engines of 50 cubic centimeters or less
- Vehicles owned by the federal government
- Vehicles owned by foreign governments and their diplomatic personnel
- Mobile homes registered with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Trailers weighing less than 2,000 pounds empty weight
Contact Information
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
2900 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: (850) 617-2000
Official Website: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
