Moving to Florida from Another State? Your Essential Guide for Out-of-State Title Transfer

Relocating often involves multiple procedures, and if you’re bringing your vehicle to Florida, transferring its title is essential. Here’s your comprehensive guide to ensure a smooth title transfer and registration in the Sunshine State.

For Vehicles With a Lien:

Lienholder’s Possession: If the out-of-state title is held by an out-of-state lienholder, you’ll need to contact them. Request the title be transferred to Florida.
Vehicle Registration: Regardless of the lienholder’s decision, you must register your vehicle in Florida.
Lienholder’s Refusal: If they decline the title transfer, ask for a written statement on their letterhead. Bring this letter to a Florida motor vehicle service center to apply for vehicle registration.
Lienholder’s Agreement: If they agree to the title transfer, head over to your nearest motor vehicle service center in Florida. Complete the Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (HSMV form 82040).

For Vehicles Without a Lien:

Compile the following documentation. Special circumstances might need extra paperwork:

Proof of Identity: Mandatory for all vehicle owners.
Proof of Florida Insurance.
Original Out-of-State Title.
Signature Requirements: ALL owners need to sign the completed Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (HSMV form 82040).
VIN Verification: A physical inspection of the motor vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is required. This verification can be done on either the Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (HSMV form 82040) or the Vehicle Identification Number and Odometer Verification (HSMV form 82042). Approved VIN verifiers include:
- A Law Enforcement Officer.
- A Military Police Officer.
- A licensed Florida Dealer.
- A county tax collector employee or Division of Motorist Services Compliance Examiner (available at local service centers offering motor vehicle services).