Florida Title Transfers: Here’s What You Need to Know

Buying, selling, gifting… It doesn’t matter. If a car is being transferred in Florida, the title must be transferred correctly. 

To avoid the usual confusion (and a second trip to the tag office), start with this article. 

Here’s everything you need to know to get it done right the first time.

Key Requirements for Every Title Transfer in Florida

Let’s start with the basics. Whether you’re buying, selling, or gifting a vehicle, every title transfer must include:

• A signed Florida title with the transfer section completed by both buyer and seller
  
• A bill of sale (recommended for clarity and tax purposes)
  
• A valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or military ID)
  
• Proof of Florida insurance (required for vehicles, not for boats or trailers)
  

Title Transfer Fees & Taxes

Florida’s standard title transfer fee is $75.75. But you’ll also need to factor in:

• 6% state sales tax, plus local discretionary taxes (e.g., 1% in some counties)
  
• Late penalty of $20 if the transfer isn’t completed within 30 days of the sale
  

For example, if you buy a vehicle in Broward County and delay the title transfer past 30 days, that’s a $20 fee you didn’t need to pay.

Special Situations to Know

Not every title transfer is a clean, in-state sale. Here’s how to handle the most common exceptions:

• Out-of-State Titles: If the vehicle is coming from out of Florida, you’ll need a VIN verification and proof of sales tax paid (if owned for less than six months).
  
• Co-Owned Vehicles: If the title lists “AND,” both owners must sign. If it says “OR,” only one signature is required.
  
• Electronic Titles: These can be transferred without printing the paper version, provided both parties visit a tax collector’s office or our authorized courier service.
  

Where to Process the Transfer

You’ve got three options:

1. In person at a Florida tax collector’s office or a licensed tag agency (appointments often required).
2. Online via the FLHSMV portal (for certain services only).
3. Go Through East Broward Auto Tags
   

Please note that not everything can be completed online, especially if forms are missing or if you have an out-of-state title.

Pro Tips to Keep You Ahead

• Verify liens: Make sure there are no active loans or liens on the title. If there are, you’ll need a lien release.
  
• Keep copies: Always keep digital or paper copies of all your documents. You’ll thank yourself later.
  
• Need it fast? Use East Broward Auto Tags

When completing your Fort Lauderdale tag and title needs, don’t waste your time at the Broward County DMV. Come to East Broward Auto Tags for all things Fort Lauderdale tag renewals. Auto Tags of East Broward is the premier tag agency in Broward County. Contact us by phone or visit our website to learn more and begin your online renewal.

For more information on replacement car titles and registration, check out these great resources below:

Resource 1 | Resource 2 | Resource 3