Each state has different rules regarding the registration of vehicles and Floridia is no exception. Although the process may not seem simple, as long as you have the requirements {which are listed below registering your vehicle should be a breeze.

You are able to register your car in Florida by using the State’s mobile app (MyFlorida) or by going online or in person to a Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle (FHSMV) office. Florida makes the process of registering your vehicle easy as it allows the registrant to choose different ways of registering.

What does Florida registration entail?

For your car to be properly registered, you must have the following:

• A license plate with a valid tag number
• A sticker that shows the expiration date
• A registration card and information, which should be placed safely in your car

When you properly register your car in Florida, you will receive all of this documentation. If you don’t have these elements, you run the risk of getting stopped by the police and getting a ticket. Additionally, every license plate must be replaced every ten years in Florida.

If you are military personnel or a veteran, be sure to visit the FHSMV Military & Vereran section of the website.

To register your car in Florida, if it’s your first time registering, you will need to do this in person at one of the FHSMV office locations. This would be required if you currently don’t have a Florida license plate to your name or there is no record of one in your name from the past.

Florida car registration renewal

If you are not new to Florida and have already registered your car in Florida, you can renew your registration online or through the mobile app. You can renew your registration for a one or two-year period.

What is required in order to register my car in Florida?

If you need to go to the FHSMV to register your car for the first time, you will need to bring the following items with you:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of Florida car insurance
• Completed application for certificate of title with or without registration (can be found on the FHSMV website)

There may be some situations that require additional documentation. Make sure to bring all required items to successfully and legally register your car.

What is the cost to register my car in FL?

In Florida, you’re required to pay an Initial Registration Fee of $225 to register your car if you don’t have a Florida license plate or there is no record of a Florida license plate in your name. If it’s your first time registering your car in Florida, it must be done in person at one of the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV) offices.

Why does my car need to be registered?

You are required to register your car in Florida if you are a resident of Florida, which means:

• You have a child enrolled in school in the state,
• You are employed in Florida,
• Or you have a physical address in the state.

It is mandatory for every resident to register his/her vehicle with the state of Florida within 10 days of any of the above things occuring. If there is no proof of registration or insurance, you could lose your license for up to three years in the state. You will likely be required to pay a fee as well.

Also, having your car registered ensures that the vehicle is safe and legal to drive so that you will not put yourself or others at risk when you are on the road. It is important to register your vehicle, regardless of your state of residence.

How do I register my out-of-state vehicle?

If you have recently moved to Florida and have a car that was previously registered in a different state, you are still required to register your car and transfer your plates and registration to Florida. In order to do this, the following are needed:

• Valid identification
• Current vehicle title
• Proof of Florida insurance
• Completed application for registration

What if I am a snowbird?

If you are a snowbird and only live in Florida for 3-6 months out of the year, it is likely that you will still need to register your vehicle. For additional information, please contact your local FHSMV office. You may be required to register your car in Florida if it is your permanent residence as it depends on how much of the year you live in Florida.

Do I need to inspect my car every year?

No, you are not required to have your car inspected on an annual basis in Florida. The only thing that is required every year is registering your car and maintaining your insurance. However, it is always important to have your car inspected to make sure your car is safe to drive on public roads.

Is everyone required to register their vehicle in Florida?

Yes, everyone must register their vehicle in the state of Florida. If you have any questions regarding the status of registering your car, contact the FHSMV. There may be exceptions to those who are serving in the military.

If you own a heavy truck, please be aware that the process of registering the vehicle is different.

Car insurance requirements in the state of Florida

Similar to most states in the United States, without registering your car and proof of insurance, you are not legally permitted to drive your car in Florida. There is a minimum of requirements that you must meet for your car insurance including property damage, personal injury protection, and bodily injury protection. These requirements are mandatory for citizens of Florida to protect the community as a whole.

The Florida minimum car insurance requirements are:

Liability:

• Property damage: $10,000 per accident

Personal injury protection:

• $10,000 per person

While these are the minimum required coverage limits, it’s often recommended to purchase more coverage to receive more protection for yourself and your car.

If you get caught with an unregistered vehicle or without proof of insurance, you could be required to pay a fine and could get your license suspended.

While there are many car insurance companies available in Florida, consumers say that some are better than others. For a live ranking of the best car insurance companies in Florida according to Florida consumers, visit Clearsurance’s Florida car insurance rankings page.

The content on this site is offered only as a public service to the web community and does not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice. This site should not be used as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an insurance company or an attorney licensed or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. You should always consult a suitably qualified attorney regarding any specific legal problem or matter. The comments and opinions expressed on this site are of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the insurance company or any individual attorney.