1. Time Limits

• Apply to title and registration within 30 days of purchase or acquisition.
• New Florida residents must title and register vehicles within 10 days of establishing residency (e.g., working, enrolling kids in school, registering to vote).

2. Proof of Ownership

To get a title in your name:

New car

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MSO) properly completed by the dealer.

Used car

• The current title signed and completed by the seller (buyer and seller signatures, odometer reading).
• A Bill of Sale is strongly recommended if the title doesn’t list the sale price.

If there is a lien, the lienholder’s information must be included, and the title may be sent from that institution.

3. Identification

All owners listed on the title must present valid photo ID when titling/registration is submitted. Acceptable IDs usually include:

• Valid out-of-state or Florida driver’s license
• State-issued ID card
• Passport (if applicable)

4. Insurance

Before registration, you must have Florida-compliant auto insurance in your name. Florida requires:

• $10,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
• $10,000 Property Damage Liability (PDL)

You’ll need to present proof of insurance (insurance card/policy/binder) when applying.

5. VIN / Inspection Requirements

• A VIN inspection is required for vehicles not currently titled in Florida — often performed by a notary, law enforcement officer, licensed dealer, FLHSMV inspector, or other authorized agent.

This verifies the identity of the vehicle and is required before FLHSMV will issue you a title/registration.

6.  Taxes

Sales and Use Tax

• Florida sales/use tax is generally 6% of the purchase price, plus any local discretionary surtaxes. Please see below link for surtax information per county.
  Discretionary Sales Surtax Information For 2026
• Trade in allowed
• Reciprocal with CA

Quick Checklist

  Signed and completed current title or MSO
Bill of Sale or purchase order
color of vehicle
Completed VIN verification
Copy of Driver’s License or EIN/FEIN
Florida insurance proof on new vehicle
Copy of contract
Original odometer
Power of attorney