How Much Does It Cost to Register a Car in Florida? (2025 Guide)

If you’re moving to Florida or buying a new car, one of the first things you’ll need to do is register your vehicle. But how much does it cost to register a car in Florida?

The answer depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, its weight, and whether it’s a new registration or a renewal.

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In this guide, we’ll break down all the costs and fees so you can budget accordingly.

Why Registering Your Car in Florida Matters

Florida law requires all vehicles to be registered with the state.

Whether you’re a new resident or just purchased a car, you’ll need to complete this process to legally drive on Florida roads.

Failing to register your vehicle on time can result in fines, so it’s important to understand the costs and requirements upfront.

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The Car Registration Process in Florida

Registering your car in Florida is straightforward if you have the right documents and follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather The Required Documents

1. • Florida Driver’s License: Transfer your out-of-state license if needed. Bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Florida address.

   • Proof of Insurance: Get Florida auto insurance and bring a copy with your policy number and VIN.

   • Car Title: Bring the title if you already have it. If not, apply for one during registration.

   • VIN and Odometer Inspection: Required for out-of-state or new cars. Get it done by a police officer, notary, or car dealer.

Step 2: Visit Your Local DHSMV Office

1. • Find the nearest office in your county. Some allow appointments to save time.

   • Submit your paperwork and pay the fees. You’ll get a receipt to use as temporary proof of registration until your official documents arrive by mail.

That’s it! With the right documents and a quick trip to the DHSMV, you’ll have your car registered in no time.

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The Cost of Registering a Car in Florida

In Florida, the car registration fees vary by the weight of your car, whether the vehicle is from out of state or not, and the duration you register your vehicle for.

The Initial Registration Fee is $225. You must pay this amount in person at your local Florida DHSMV at the aforementioned time of titling. If you transfer a car title to a newly bought car, you will be exempt from this registration fee.

The annual tax and other fees depend on the weight class of your vehicle. Below are the yearly fees for private use vehicles:

• 0-2499 pounds - $27.60 per year and $55.20 for 2 years

• 2500-3499 pounds - $35.60 per year and $71.50 for 2 years

• 3500+ pounds - $45.60 per year and $91.20 for 2 years

Note that you will be charged the full amount regardless of when you register your car during the registration period.

If you have established residency, gained employment, or enrolled your children in a public school in the state of Florida, you have a period of 10 days to register an out-of-state vehicle. You also have 30 days to transfer over your driver's license once you've moved into the state.

You also have to pay for a new license plate. The cost of a standard license plate is $28. A personalized license plate can cost upwards of $70. The License Plate transfer fee is $7.

You may also have to pay sales, use, and local discretionary taxes on your car during the first-time registry. If you have owned your vehicle for six months or less, you have to pay a 6% use or sales tax together with any local discretionary taxes.

The sales taxes in Florida are prorated. This means that if you paid a 3 % sales tax in your previous state, you would incur a sales tax of 3% (6 %-3%) in Florida.

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Example: Total Cost to Register a Car in Florida

Let’s say you’re registering a standard passenger vehicle weighing under 2,500 pounds for the first time. Here’s what you’d pay:

• Initial Registration Fee: $225

• Weight-Based Fee: $27.60

• New Plate Fee: $28

• Title Fee: $75.25

Total Cost: $355.85

If you’re renewing your registration or transferring plates, the costs will be lower since you won’t pay the initial $225 fee.

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The Bottom Line

Overall, the process of registering your car in Florida is reasonably straightforward once you know the necessary steps.

The complete set of evidence of vehicle registration includes a metal license plate, a registration certificate (you must carry in your car at all times), and a registration decal provided on your registration certificate.