Florida Car Title Transfer

Florida Title Transfer

Florida DMV Title Transfer Guide

Are you buying or selling a car in the state of Florida? You need to know how to transfer a title to ensure the transaction is complete and legal.  This FAQ provides all the information and links you need to get the job done quickly and without making multiple trips to the DHSMV.

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First off, in Florida all car titles are issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. In order to transfer the title, you will be visiting one of their offices located throughout the state. or use our simple title transfer service to avoid government office visits. Make sure to check ahead for hours of operation.

What Is A Vehicle Title?

A title is a document that declares ownership of a car, truck, motorhome, or trailer. When the car is sold, the title must be transferred to the new owner or to the lien holder.

The title describes the vehicle by:

  • Make/Model/Year.
  • Number of doors, passengers, and weight.
  • The Vehicle Identification Number.

When transferring a title you must always provide the original document to the DHSMV office or an official duplicate.  No photocopies or scans will be accepted.

Title Transfer When Buying A Car In Florida

What do I need to transfer the title when buying a car through a private sale or third party seller?

So you are buying a car from a private seller. In order to ensure you receive a clean title, go with the seller to your local DHSMV office.

Make sure to bring the following documents and requirements with you when visiting the FL DMV in person to seamlessly facilitate the title transfer process:

  • The completed original title with sale price, buyer's name and address, seller's name and address.
  • Completed Application for Title.
  • Completed Notice of Sale.
  • Odometer reading verified.
  • Your driver's license.
  • Proof of insurance.
  • Approved loan documentation.
  • The vehicle that is being sold.
  • Payment for all fees and taxes due.

How To Fill Out The FL Title And Title Transfer Forms

What do I need to sign when transferring my car title in Florida?

On the original title, there is a Purchaser Section and a Transfer of Title by Seller Section.

Every person listed on the original title must sign and print their name in the Seller section. Every person who wants to be listed on the new title must sign and print their name in the Purchaser section. The odometer box must be filled out and cannot be changed or show signs of tampering.

The sale price must also be listed in the appropriate box.

It is best to complete this paperwork at the DHSMV in front of a clerk to ensure everything is complete. The buyer gets a title immediately and the seller is protected from an incomplete sale.

FL DMV Locations

Where is the nearest FL DMV office to me?

There are DHSMV offices located in every county in Florida. Check this page for a complete list. You have to visit an office in the county that you will be garaging the vehicle. Each county has different tax rates.

They are generally open 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. You can make an appointment to avoid long waits.

How Soon Do You Have To Apply For A Title Transfer After Buying A Car?

You should get a title transferred as soon as you purchase the vehicle.

How Much Does A Title Transfer Cost In Florida?

The cost varies between $75.00 and $115.00 to transfer a used car title in state, depending on if your title is from FL or out-of-state, as well as if you're 30 or more days late (from sales date) to transfer the title. Registering your vehicle will be an additional fee. You will also be charged 6% to 7% sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle.

That rate may vary from county to county.

Can I Gift A Car To A Family Member?

Yes. Make sure to fill out the title with a zero sale price. You will have to provide an affidavit that you are giving the vehicle to a relation.

You will not be charged sales tax on the vehicle.

Title Transfer Requirements When Selling A Car To A Minor

Can I sell a car to someone under 18 years old? What do I need to do?

They are the same as when selling to an adult. They must have insurance in order to have the title transferred into their name.

If you have any further questions about selling or buying a car in Florida, and how to transfer a title, give the FL DHSMV a call at 850-617-2000 during normal business hours.

Check out their Contact Us page for a wide range of self-services and departments ready to help you with all your DHSMV needs.

Florida DMV Hours And Contact Information

For more information on questions specific to your title transfer scenario, clarification on the title transfer process in the state of Florida, or for FL DMV hours and to find the DMV location nearest to you, visit the official Florida Department of Motor Vehicles/Highway Safety and MotorVehicle (FLHSMV) website by clicking here.

Common Questions About Florida Title Transfer

Are there any questions about transferring a car title that we didn't cover?

We are constantly updating our content and welcome your feedback. Leave us a comment and let us know any other questions you might have regarding how to transfer a car title in the state of Florida.