Florida uses a metal license plate with the alpha numeric system, meaning there are combinations of letters and numbers used for identification. The renewal decal with the vehicle description and month and year of expiration is placed in the upper right hand corner of the plate. The license plate is issued for five years and displayed on the rear of the vehicle with the exception of certain commercial vehicles. The owner will receive a new plate (with new numbers and letters) during the fifth year. Vehicles are registered on a staggered basis according to the first listed registered owner's birth month.

Florida Titles
To transfer a Florida Title, the seller must complete the transfer information on the current title, including the purchaser's name, the selling price, and the odometer reading at the time of sale. (A bill of sale may be submitted for proof of purchase price.) Sales tax will be collected if applicable. All transfers of ownership must be completed within 30 days of the date the vehicle is assigned by the seller or a $20 fee is levied at the time of transfer.

Out-of-State Vehicle Titles
An out-of-state title must be submitted as proof of ownership and if transfer of ownership is involved, it must be properly assigned indicating the new owner's name and address. An application for Florida Title must be completed and accompanied by verification of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and odometer reading (DHSMV Form 82042). The owner(s) or purchase(s) must sign this form or give power of attorney. Sales tax will be collected if applicable.

New Vehicle Titles
All new vehicles are required to have a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) which must be signed and notarized (if applicable) by a licensed dealer for transfer to the buyer. To obtain a Florida title, the MCO must be filled out completely and attached to the title application form (DHSMV Form 82040). Sales tax will be collected if applicable.