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How to Renew Your Florida Car Registration: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to complete your Florida car registration renewal, including steps, fees, and online, in-person, or mail options and stay compliant.

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All vehicles must have a current, valid registration to be driven on Florida roads. You must display the registration decal in the provided space in the upper right-hand corner of your license plate. Floridians have the option to renew their car registration for a period of one or two years, and you can renew an existing registration up to three months prior to the registration expiration date.

Unless otherwise specified, privately owned vehicle and vessel registrations typically expire at midnight on the primary owner’s birth date. Commercially owned vehicles, trailers, and heavy trucks may have unique registration requirements.

The Florida car registration renewal process is relatively straightforward, and you have the option to renew in person, online, or via the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) mobile app, MyFlorida.

Eligibility Requirements for Renewal

To complete a car registration renewal in Florida, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  1. Up-to-date auto insurance: You must have current auto insurance in compliance with the state’s minimum requirements.
  2. Resolution of registration holds: Any holds on your registration, which may include unpaid toll violations, outstanding parking tickets, or emissions violations, must be resolved and lifted prior to registration renewal.
  3. Current ownership and title: A current vehicle title is required to renew your registration in Florida, and any pending title changes or transfer of ownership processes must be completed.
  4. Emissions testing (if applicable): Your vehicle must pass inspection before renewal in certain counties.
  5. Identifying information: You must have your car’s license plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and your Florida driver’s license or state ID.

Documents Needed for Florida Car Registration Renewal

To renew an existing registration prior to the expiration date, you may need to provide the following:

  • The vehicle’s license plate number and/or VIN
  • Proof of Florida auto insurance
  • A valid Florida driver’s license or state ID

You may also be required to provide proof of resolution if you have any recent registration holds, and additional documentation may be required for leased vehicles. For initial Florida car registration, or if your current registration has expired, you’ll also need to complete an Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (HSMV form 82040).

How to Renew Your Florida Car Registration

The process of renewing your car registration in Florida is fairly straightforward, as long as you do so within the eligible renewal period and have all the necessary documentation. You should receive a registration renewal notice before the expiration date. There are three ways to renew Florida car registration: in person, online, or via the MyFlorida app.

In Person

As a registered owner, you can visit any Florida DMV or tax collector office to renew your registration and update any out-of-date information. Be sure to bring your renewal notice, proof of insurance, and money to pay for the required fees. In most cases, you should receive your renewed registration on the same day.

Online

You can renew your vehicle registration online via the MyDMV Portal on the FLHSMV website. Simply enter your license plate number and the last four digits of your VIN and pay the registration fee along with a nonrefundable $2 convenience fee using a credit or debit card. Once you complete these steps, your renewed registration and decal should arrive in the mail within seven to 10 business days.

Via Mobile App

You can also complete your car registration renewal in Florida through the MyFlorida mobile app, which you can download via the Apple Store or Google Play Store. You’ll also need to pay a small processing fee.

Fees and Payment Options for Renewal

You will be required to pay a renewal fee at the time of registration. Renewal fees are usually lower than initial registration fees. The amount you must pay depends on the type and weight of the vehicle. You can see a full breakdown of the costs associated with each type of vehicle on the FLHSMV fees page.

You can pay your renewal fees using a variety of payment options, including:

  • Credit card
  • Debit card
  • Personal check
  • Cashier’s check
  • Cash
  • Money order

Updating Information During the Renewal Process

It’s a good idea to update any personal information, including your address, name, and insurance, at the time of renewal. Changing your address or insurance can usually be done online.

If you require a name change, you’ll need to visit a tax collector's office in person and provide proof of the change, such as a marriage certificate or other supporting document.

Common Issues and Tips for a Smooth Renewal

Some of the most common issues that can impact a car registration renewal in Florida include:

  • Lost documents
  • Incorrect or outdated information
  • Processing errors
  • Missing insurance verification
  • Missed renewal deadlines
  • Unresolved registration holds

Here are a few tips for ensuring a smooth renewal process:

  • Read renewal notices carefully
  • Check for typos throughout the process and review your personal and vehicle information thoroughly
  • Keep all of your documents in an organized file
  • Contact FLHSMV if you have any questions
  • Set a calendar reminder to avoid missing the renewal window

Secure Your Car and Wallet With the Right Insurance

To complete the Florida car registration renewal process online or in person, you must provide proof of insurance. Minimum requirements in Florida include $10,000 of personal injury protection (PIP) coverage and $10,000 of property damage liability (PDL) coverage.

It can be frustrating and time-consuming to gather quotes from different companies and determine which policies best meet your needs. With EverQuote, you can compare custom Florida car insurance quotes side by side for free. It only takes a few minutes.

FAQs

How much does it cost to renew your vehicle registration in Florida?
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The cost to renew car registration in Florida depends on your car’s weight, type, and renewal period. For standard cars, renewal fees are as follows:
  • Up to 2,499 pounds: $14.50
  • 2,500-3,499 pounds: $22.50
  • 3,500 pounds and up: $32.50
Can Florida vehicle registration be done online?
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Yes, in most cases you can renew online or via the MyFlorida mobile app.
What documents do I need to renew my car registration in Florida?
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You will need your car’s license plate number or VIN, proof of insurance, and a valid driver’s license or state ID.
How many years is a Florida car registration good for?
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In Florida, you have the choice to renew your car registration for a period of one or two years.