Florida License Plates: How to Get, Transfer, and Replace Them
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Florida license plates are required for Florida drivers to legally operate a vehicle in the Sunshine State. This guide explains Florida license plate options, specialty plates, temporary license plates, renewal periods, title documentation, and registration fees to help you renew your current license plate or get a new one.
Documents Needed for Florida License Plate Application
The documents you need for license plates in Florida will vary based on whether you are a new applicant or are transferring or replacing standard plates.
If you are getting Florida license plates for the first time, you will need:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of auto insurance in Florida
- The Application for Certificate of Motor Vehicle Title
Florida drivers can renew their license plate registration up to three months ahead of expiration by providing their car's license plate or vehicle identification number (VIN). The MyDMVPortal offers online renewals.
If, on the other hand, you are looking to do an out-of-state transfer, you will need to provide ownership documentation, including the following:
- The out-of-state vehicle titles that prove you are now the vehicle owner
- The completed Application for Certificate of Motor Vehicle Title
- Proof of identification
- Proof of insurance
- VIN verification
Finally, if you are interested in specialty or personalized plates, you can order them at a motor vehicles' service center. You will need to bring the Application for Personalized License Plate and an additional $15.
Steps To Register a New Vehicle and Obtain Plates
If you have your Florida driver license and are looking to register a new vehicle and obtain license plates in Florida, you can follow three simple steps:
- Collect all of the needed documents, such as proof of identity and ownership, your insurance information, and the completed application. If you are a new Florida resident, you have 30 days to register your vehicle.
- Visit a driver's license and motor vehicle service center.
- Pay the applicable fees.
You will receive a metal state license plate, a registration certificate that must be in your vehicle when you drive it, and a registration decal in the upper right-hand corner of your license plate.
How To Transfer License Plates Between Vehicles
Florida title transfer comes with a few rules and regulations regarding the transfer of ownership or license plates.
For example, if you have purchased a new car, you must first visit a tax collector's office and pay a transfer fee and any related taxes. Then, you can legally remove the license plate you wish to transfer and complete the transfer application to move forward with the process. Wait until all of this documentation is in order before making the transfer.
Proof of Florida insurance will be required when you transfer a license plate.
Replacing Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Florida Plates
If your Florida license plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, rest assured that you have options!
First, report the issue to local law enforcement. This not only deters crime and informs the police about what's happening in the community but can also save you money. If your license plate was stolen and you provide a police report, you can get a replacement plate for free.
Then, complete an Application for Replacement License Plate, Validation Decal or Parking Permit.
Submit the form to your local tax collector and pay any related fees.
Exploring Specialty and Personalized Plate Options
If you like specialty and personalized plates, you are in luck: Florida reported more than 2.2 million specialty plate registrations as of January 1, 2025.
From sports teams to colleges to environmental causes and more, you can showcase and celebrate your passions with a personalized or specialty license plate. The funds raised from these plates go to support the causes touted on your license plate, so the added cost for a personalized plate goes to a good cause!
Finally, there is a new pre-sale process for specialty plates. You can complete a form to determine if the personalized plate you want is available.
Renewing Your Florida License Plates: Key Deadlines and Tips
Attention to renewal dates and deadlines is always important. Your car registration expires at midnight on your birth date, but you can renew it up to three months before that date, either online or in person.
If you are delinquent in your renewal, it will cost you. Late fees are linked to the amount you pay in license tax. For example, if you pay $25 in license tax, your delinquent fee will be $5.
License tax amounts over $25 and their corresponding delinquent fee are listed below:
- $25.01 to $50: $10
- $50.01 to $100: $15
- $100.01 to $400: $50
- $400.01 to $600: $100
- $600.01 and up: $250
Get Your Florida Plates and Save on Car Insurance Today!
After you have completed your Florida car registration and received your Florida plates, it is time to shop around for the best car insurance deals! Visit EverQuote today for a free custom auto insurance quote. You can view and compare car insurance quotes side by side, which makes it easy to identify the best option for your Florida driving needs.