Transferring a car title in Florida after selling or gifting a vehicle is the most important step you can take. Knowing how to transfer a title in Florida ensures you’re no longer liable for the vehicle when you transfer ownership.
How To Transfer a Title in Florida
The Florida title transfer process is simple with these steps.
- Apply for a demonstration-only temporary tag: You must apply for a demonstration-only temporary tag if you’ve already purchased another vehicle and transferred the license plate. This allows potential buyers to drive the car legally, but you must also carry adequate auto insurance.
- Have a VIN inspection if out-of-state: If you’re transferring a vehicle title on a car that wasn’t titled in Florida originally, you must fill out the Vehicle Identification Number and Odometer Verification form. You complete the form, but an official, such as a notary public, Florida DMV, or Florida FLHSMV compliance officer, must verify the Vehicle Identification Number inspection.
- Record the odometer reading on the title: When selling or transferring the car, you must document the current odometer reading on the title certificate. Be sure you have an accurate reading and bring it with you when completing the seller’s section of the paper title.
- Visit the local motor vehicle service center: The safest way to transfer a title in Florida and complete the sale or vehicle transfer is to visit the local FLHSMV. While there, you can complete the Transfer of Title by Seller section on the title, and the buyer can complete an Application for Certificate of Title to have the title issued in their name.
- File a Notice of Sale: All Florida residents must complete and file a Notice of Sale when transferring a vehicle. This ensures your name is off the vehicle, and you are no longer liable.
Documents Required To Transfer a Florida Title
Before heading to the motor vehicle service center, be sure you have the necessary documents, including:
- Florida title completed by both parties: It’s best to complete the title at the FLHSMV in front of a professional, but both the buyer and seller must be present to do this.
- Proof of insurance for the buyers: Buyers must have proof of Florida insurance to conduct the title transfer. Be sure the buyer has at least enough insurance to meet the state of Florida laws and has a current identification card.
- Driver license: All parties involved in the Florida title transfer must bring a valid driver’s license.
- License plate number: If you’re transferring license plates, you must have the license plate number with you.
Documents Required for Out-Of-State Title Transfer
If transferring a title from out-of-state, in addition to the documents above, you must have the following documents:
- Current registration and insurance: Buyers must prove they are the vehicle’s registered owner and have proper vehicle insurance.
- Buyers must be present: To transfer a title in Florida from out of state, the buyers must be present for the title transfer process. If there is more than one person on the title and they cannot be present, they must complete form 82040.
- Proof of lien holder and their contact information: If the buyer uses financing to purchase the car, they must bring proof of the lien, such as the bill of sale, contract, or the auto payment book. You also need the contact information for the lienholder.
Can You Transfer a Car Title Online in Florida?
You may wonder if you can transfer a title or car title online in Florida. Unfortunately, the answer is no.
You must transfer the title in person. This protects all parties involved since sellers must ensure they are no longer legally liable for the vehicle, and buyers need a legitimate title.
How Much Does it Cost To Transfer a Title in Florida?
The state of Florida charges $75.25 to transfer a title in Florida. This is the same title fee original owners will pay if they need a duplicate title for one that was lost or stolen.
FAQs: Florida Title Transfer
What Is the Penalty for Not Transferring a Title Within 30 Days in Florida?
The state of Florida charges a $20 late title fee if you don’t transfer the title within 30 days. It’s important to transfer the title as quickly as possible to remove your obligation for the vehicle and avoid the additional fee.
Can You Gift a Car in Florida and Not Pay Taxes?
Gifting a car to a family member or another person in Florida is non-taxable as long as it’s transferred without any exchange of funds. There must also be no existing liens on the vehicle title that the new owner must assume.
To be exempt from taxes on the transfer, you must complete the ‘Sales Tax Exemption Certification’ on the application for a Certificate of Title.
Can You Transfer a Boat Title Online in Florida?
To transfer a boat title in Florida, you must visit the county tax collector’s office or license plate agent’s office. Like cars, you have 30 days to transfer the title. Operating a boat without a proper title for more than 30 days is a second-degree misdemeanor.
How Does a Florida Motorcycle Title Transfer Work?
Transferring a motorcycle title in Florida is the same as transferring a vehicle title. You have 30 days to transfer the title, and both the buyer and seller must be present to complete the title and transfer the motorcycle to the new owner.
Final Thoughts: How To Transfer a Title in Florida
Knowing how to transfer a title in Florida is essential when selling a vehicle. The most important factor is removing your name from the title so you are no longer legally liable for the vehicle.
Having a proper title allows the new owners to not only legally own the vehicle but also allow the option to apply for financing against the vehicle should a financial emergency occur.
Written by
Samantha Hawrylack
Samantha Hawrylack writes for our company and is an expert in personal finance. Sam received her Bachelors of Science in Finance and her Masters in Business Administration from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. She began her career in the financial services industry and shifted to an entrepreneurial role where she could directly impact clients. Sam has an impressive background in personal finance and business management.