How do I transfer my car tag from Tennessee to Florida?

Transferring a car tag (license plate and registration) from Tennessee to Florida involves titling and registering your vehicle in Florida. This is a multi-step process that typically needs to be done in person at a local Florida County Tax Collector’s office.

Here’s a breakdown of the general requirements and steps:

1. Establish Florida Residency:

• While not a direct requirement for the vehicle transfer itself, Florida law typically requires you to obtain a Florida driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency.

2. Obtain Florida Auto Insurance:

• You must have proof of valid Florida auto insurance before you can title and register your vehicle. Florida requires a minimum of $10,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance.

3. Gather Necessary Documents:

• Original Tennessee Title: This is crucial. If your title is held by a lienholder (e.g., a bank), you may need to contact them to request that the title be transferred to Florida.
• Completed Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (HSMV Form 82040): This form will be available at the Tax Collector’s office, or you may be able to download it online. Ensure all required sections are completed accurately, including the owner/applicant information, vehicle description, odometer declaration, and VIN verification.
• Proof of Identity: All registered owners must be present with valid photo identification. Acceptable forms generally include:
  • A valid Florida driver’s license or ID card.
  • An out-of-state driver’s license or ID card with a photo.
  • A U.S. passport.
  • A Canadian driver’s license, ID card, or passport.
  • A driver’s license or ID card from any U.S. Territory.
  • An out-of-country passport (may require an I-94).
• VIN Verification and Odometer Reading:
  • The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) must be verified and the mileage recorded. This can usually be done at the Tax Collector’s office by bringing the vehicle with you.
  • Alternatively, you can have a Florida notary, a licensed Florida automobile dealer, a Florida police officer, a Florida DMV inspector, or a police officer in the state where the vehicle is located complete an “Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (HSMV form 82040)” or “Vehicle Identification Number and Odometer Verification (HSMV form 82042)”.
  • Note: VIN verification is generally not required for new vehicles, travel trailers, camping trailers, fifth-wheel recreation trailers, or trailers/semitrailers with an empty weight less than 2,000 pounds.
• Proof of Sales Tax Paid (if applicable):
  • If you’ve owned the vehicle for less than six months, you may be required to pay Florida sales tax (typically 6%, but check your specific county’s rate) on the purchase price, minus any trade-in.
  • Bring your bill of sale or dealer invoice that shows proof of sales tax paid in Tennessee. You may receive credit for sales tax paid in another state if that state has a reciprocal agreement with Florida.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay applicable fees, which can include:
  • Initial registration fee (a one-time fee of $225 if you don’t have a Florida license plate or record of one to transfer).
  • Title fee.
  • Registration fees (based on vehicle weight, typically ranging from $27.60 to $45.60 per year for standard passenger vehicles).
  • License plate fee (around $28 for a new plate, or a transfer fee of around $7.35 if transferring a Florida plate).
  • Any applicable sales tax.

4. Visit Your Local Florida County Tax Collector’s Office:

• It’s highly recommended to make an appointment if possible, as this can save you time.
• Bring all the documents listed above.
• The staff will process your application, verify your VIN and odometer (if done on-site), collect fees, and issue your new Florida license plate and registration.

Important Notes:

• Timeliness: Florida law generally requires new residents to register their vehicles within 10 days of establishing residency or within 30 days if they become employed, place children in school, or apply for homestead exemption.
• Lienholders: If you have a lien on your vehicle, the process might be slightly different. You’ll need to contact your lienholder and request that they send the original title to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) or your local Tax Collector’s office.
• Temporary Tags: If you need to drive the vehicle to the Tax Collector’s office for the VIN inspection and don’t have a valid tag, you may be able to obtain a temporary license plate for a small fee, valid for 10 days.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific website for the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) or your local County Tax Collector’s office for the most up-to-date and precise requirements, as these can sometimes vary slightly by county.