In Florida, a car title is the legal document that proves you own your vehicle. Messing up the process of transferring a title can lead to serious legal and financial headaches down the road, so it’s important to do it right.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about car title transfer in Florida. We’ll cover private sales, the paperwork you’ll need, the fees involved, and even special situations like gifting a car or selling to a minor.
Understanding the Florida Vehicle Title
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) issues titles to vehicle owners. A title is a legal document that establishes who owns a particular vehicle.
Before you buy a car, it’s important to make sure the seller has a valid title. You can contact the DHSMV to verify that the title is real and doesn’t have any liens against it.
Florida vehicle titles generally include the owner’s name, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and information about any liens on the vehicle.
The Title Transfer Process in a Private Sale
When you buy or sell a vehicle in a private sale in Florida, you and the other party will need to take a few steps to legally transfer the title.
Seller’s Responsibilities
As the seller, you’ll need to:
- Complete the title. Fill out the “Transfer of Title by Seller” section on the Florida title, making sure to accurately record the odometer reading. If the title lists multiple owners separated by “and,” “/”, or no symbol, each owner must sign the title. If the owners are separated by “or,” only one signature is needed.
- Remove the license plate. You’re required to remove the license plate from the vehicle. You can either return the plate to the DMV or transfer it to another vehicle you own.
- Create a bill of sale. While not always required, it’s a good idea to create a bill of sale that details the transaction, including the sale price, date of sale, and names of both parties.
Buyer’s Responsibilities
As the buyer, you’ll need to:
- Gather the required documents. You’ll need the original title, a completed application for title transfer, your Florida driver’s license/ID, proof of Florida auto insurance, and possibly a bill of sale. An unexpired foreign passport can be accepted if you also present certain documentation from the US Department of Homeland Security.
- Visit the tax collector’s office. You’ll need to visit the county tax collector’s office to pay the required taxes and fees. You, and any co-owners, must be present at the tax collector’s office, or provide a Power of Attorney.
- Prepare for VIN verification. Your vehicle may be subject to a VIN verification check.
What are the costs and fees?
Transferring a car title in Florida involves several fees:
- Title Transfer Fees: The amount varies by county and your specific circumstances, but you can expect to pay something.
- Sales Tax: Florida charges 6% sales tax on the vehicle’s price. You might get a deduction if you trade in another vehicle.
- Registration Fees: These include the cost of the license plate (around $225). Registration fees vary depending on the type of vehicle you’re registering. A motorcycle, for example, has a minimum registration fee of $26.
- Penalties: Transfer the title quickly! You’ll have to pay a penalty if you wait too long.
Special circumstances in Florida title transfers
Some title transfers require special handling. Here are a few examples:
Gifting a vehicle
If you’re giving a car to someone, you’ll still have to transfer the title. On the title, fill in the sale price as $0 or write “gift.” You’ll also have to give the state an affidavit stating that the car is, indeed, a gift. The good news? There’s no sales tax on a gifted car.
Selling a vehicle to a minor
In Florida, it’s OK to sell a car to someone under the age of 18, but the minor will have to show a valid ID and proof of insurance before the title can be transferred.
Out-of-state titles
If you’re transferring a title from another state, you’ll have to provide the Florida DMV with some extra documentation, including a VIN verification. Fortunately, you can get that done at the same time as your title transfer.
Finding a Florida DMV or Tax Collector’s Office
To find the nearest Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office, search online. Before you go, make sure the office handles title transfers for your county and whether you need to make an appointment.
You can also complete a title transfer at your county tax collector’s office. Find the location online and call ahead to see what forms of payment they accept and if they have any special instructions.
To Conclude
Understanding Florida’s car title transfer process is crucial for both buyers and sellers. If you’re selling a car privately, remember your responsibilities: properly sign the title, provide a bill of sale, and notify the DHSMV. Buyers, ensure you have all the necessary documentation, including proof of insurance, and complete the transfer promptly.
Always verify the title’s validity to avoid future headaches. Because rules and requirements can change, it’s a good idea to visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) website or your local tax collector’s office for the latest information.