Are you moving to Florida or buying a motorcycle here for the first time?
You might find yourself dealing with a title transfer for your new ride.
The good thing is that the process is not complicated once you know what to do.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Florida motorcycle titles, whether you’re buying, selling, or transferring one.
What is a Motorcycle Title?
Think of a motorcycle title like a deed to your bike. This is proof that you own it! In Florida, you'll need to transfer the title when buying, selling, or gifting a motorcycle.
But who handles all this?
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) is the go-to place for motorcycle titles and registrations.
Title Transfer Process
Private Sale
If you’re buying a motorcycle from an individual (not a dealer), both you and the seller must complete the title transfer on the back of the current title with:
Your name
Sale price
Motorcycle's mileage (if less than 10 years old)
Both of you must sign the title and voilà! Transfer complete.
Dealer Sale
When you buy from a dealership, they usually take care of the title transfer.
It’s their job to ensure that all the paperwork is submitted to the FLHSMV but double-check with them to ensure everything is done correctly.
Gifts or Family Transfers
If someone is giving you a motorcycle as a gift or transferring it to you within the family, the process is very similar to a regular sale.
The main difference is you likely won’t have to pay sales tax. It should say in the title that it was a gift.
The Documents You'll Need to Transfer a Motorcycle Title in Florida
Ready to transfer your motorcycle title? Gather these documents:
Bill of Sale
This is required for private sales. It should include
Motorcycle's VIN (Vehicle ID)
Sale price
Buyer and seller signatures
Proof of Insurance
Florida doesn’t require personal injury protection (PIP) for motorcycles, but some form of insurance, like liability coverage, is a good idea. If the motorcycle has been in an accident, insurance may be required.
Valid Identification
Both buyer and seller must provide valid ID. A driver's license or ID card would do.
Odometer Reading
If the motorcycle is less than 10 years old, the current mileage must be written on the paperwork.
Transferring Titles from Another State
If you’re moving to Florida and bringing a motorcycle from another state, you’ll need to convert the out-of-state title to a Florida title. Here’s how:
Fill out the application form (HSMV 82040).
Complete a VIN inspection, which can be done by a police officer, notary, or licensed dealer.
Pay the necessary fees to the FLHSMV.
We know all these might seem like gibberish, but we can help you accomplish them without breaking a sweat.
What to Do if There’s a Lien on the Motorcycle
Anytime you buy a motorcycle with a loan or lien, make sure the lender or bank has given the seller a lien release form showing that the loan has been fully paid off.
That is the only way for the title to be transferred smoothly. If you’re unsure, check with the lienholder to avoid any issues.
Fees and Taxes
The standard fee for a title transfer in Florida is $75.25.
Extra fees may apply if the motorcycle was purchased from outside the state.
Unless the motorcycle was a gift, you’ll also need to pay sales tax, typically around 6% of the purchase price.
How Long Does A Motorcycle Title Transfer Take?
If you come to us at Broward Auto Tags today, we can help you complete it within one working day.
If you mail your application to FLHSMV, the new title will likely not arrive for two to four weeks.
Duplicate Titles
If you lose or damage your motorcycle title, you can request a duplicate through us for a small fee. So do well to double-check all your documents before submitting them to avoid needing a replacement later.
Get Back to Riding, Not Waiting
You do not have to struggle with getting your Florida motorcycle titles. Once you know the ropes, you’ll save time and stress.
Auto Tags of East Broward is your best choice service provider to get your car assessed for the right title - contact us to get your car title in Florida! There’s no point in wasting your time at the East Broward DMV when you can stop by East Broward Auto Tags today. We offer everything you need regarding East Broward tag renewals and East Broward tag and title services. We are a premier East Broward tag agency. Stop by today, call us, or check out our website. We also have an online renewals page here.
Check out these other great resources to learn more about the basics of getting a replacement car title:
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