Personalized License Plates in Florida
What Are Personalized License Plates In Florida?
Personalized license plates in Florida allow vehicle owners to customize their vehicle registration plates with unique letter and number combinations. These plates provide an opportunity for individuals to express personal interests, affiliations, or creativity through their vehicle's identification. Personalized plates are available for most types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles.
Are Personalized License Plate Legal In Florida?
Yes, personalized license plates are legal in Florida. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) oversees the issuance of personalized plates, ensuring that all requests comply with state regulations. The state provides guidelines to ensure that the content on personalized plates is appropriate and does not violate any laws or public decency standards.
How Can I Get a Personalized License Plate In Florida?
To obtain a personalized license plate in Florida, follow these steps:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure that your vehicle is registered in Florida and that you are the registered owner.
- Plate Availability: Use the FLHSMV's online tool to check the availability of your desired plate combination.
- Application: Complete the Application for Personalized License Plate (Form HSMV 83043).
- Submission: Submit the completed application along with the required fees to your local county tax collector's office or license plate agency.
- Approval: Wait for approval from the FLHSMV. If approved, you will receive a notification regarding the issuance of your personalized plate.
How Much Does It Cost For a Personalized License Plate In Florida?
The cost of obtaining a personalized license plate in Florida includes several components:
- Initial Personalized Plate Fee: $15.00
- Annual Use Fee: $15.00
- Registration Fee: Varies based on vehicle type and weight
- Service Fee: $5.00
- Branch Fee: $0.50
Additional fees may apply for specialty plates or if the plate is being issued for the first time. It is advisable to contact your local tax collector's office for a detailed breakdown of costs specific to your situation.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Personalized License Plate In Florida?
The processing time for personalized license plates in Florida can vary. Generally, it takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks from the date of application submission for the plates to be manufactured and delivered. Applicants will be notified by their local tax collector's office when the plates are ready for pickup.
What Types Of Personalized License Plates Are Available In Florida?
Florida offers a variety of personalized license plate options, including:
- Standard Personalized Plates: Customizable with a combination of letters and numbers.
- Specialty Plates: Featuring designs that support various causes, organizations, or interests, such as environmental conservation, universities, or military service.
- Specialty Personalized Plates: Combining the design of a specialty plate with a personalized message.
Each type of plate may have specific requirements or additional fees associated with its issuance.
What Is Prohibited From Being Displayed On Personalized License Plate In Florida?
The FLHSMV enforces strict guidelines regarding the content of personalized license plates. Prohibited content includes:
- Obscenities or Profanity: Any language or symbols considered offensive or inappropriate.
- Hate Speech: Content that promotes discrimination or violence against individuals or groups.
- Misleading Content: Combinations that could be confused with official government or emergency vehicle plates.
- Trademarked or Copyrighted Material: Content that infringes on intellectual property rights without permission.
Applications containing prohibited content will be denied, and applicants may be required to submit an alternative combination.
Can I Sell My Personalized License Plate In Florida?
In Florida, personalized license plates are considered the property of the state and are issued to the registered owner of the vehicle. As such, they cannot be sold or transferred independently of the vehicle. If you sell your vehicle, the personalized plate may be transferred to another vehicle you own, or you may choose to relinquish the plate to the FLHSMV. If you wish to retain the plate for future use, you must notify the FLHSMV and follow the appropriate procedures for plate retention.