Aug. 14, 2024

Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Used Car in Florida

1. Determine Your Budget and Needs

Before starting your search, decide how much you can afford to spend and what kind of vehicle best suits your needs.

2. Research and Find the Right Car

Look for used cars that meet your budget and requirements. You can search online, visit dealerships, or check classified ads.

Autotrader - Used Cars for Sale

3. Check the Vehicle History Report

Obtain a vehicle history report using the car's VIN to check for any past accidents, title issues, or odometer discrepancies.

Resource:
Carfax - Vehicle History Reports

4. Inspect and Test Drive the Car

Arrange to inspect the car in person and take it for a test drive. Check for any signs of damage or mechanical issues.

Consumer Reports - Used Car Inspection Checklist

5. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential problems that may not be visible during your own inspection.

AAA - Find a Mechanic

6. Negotiate the Price

Negotiate with the seller to agree on a fair price for the vehicle. Use the vehicle's market value as a reference.

Kelley Blue Book - Car Value

7. Verify the Title and Ownership

Ensure the seller has a clear title and that there are no liens on the vehicle. The title should be free of any encumbrances.

Florida DHSMV - Title Information

8. Complete the Bill of Sale

Both the buyer and seller should complete and sign a bill of sale to document the transaction.

Florida Bill of Sale Form (Form HSMV 82050)

9. Obtain Proof of Insurance

Before you can register the vehicle, you must have proof of Florida auto insurance.

Florida Auto Insurance Requirements

10. Complete the Title Transfer

Visit your local tax collector’s office to transfer the title. Bring the completed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and identification.

Locate Your Local Tax Collector’s Office
Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration (Form HSMV 82040)

11. Pay the Sales Tax and Fees

Pay the applicable sales tax and registration fees at the tax collector’s office.

Florida DHSMV Fee Schedule

12. Register the Vehicle

Florida Vehicle Registration Information

13. Keep Records

Keep all documents related to the purchase, including the bill of sale, title transfer, and registration receipts, for your records.

Fees for Buying a Used Car in Florida

1. Purchase Price of the Vehicle

The agreed-upon price between the buyer and the seller.

2. Sales Tax

Florida requires a sales tax to be paid on the purchase price of the vehicle.

State Sales Tax Rate: 6%
Local Discretionary Sales Surtax: Varies by county

Florida Sales Tax Rates

3. Title Transfer Fee

When transferring the title of the vehicle into your name, a fee is required.

Title Transfer Fee: $77.25
Lien Fee (if applicable): $2.00 per lien

Florida Title Fees

4. Initial Registration Fee

For new residents or new vehicle registrations.

Initial Registration Fee: $225

Florida Vehicle Registration Fees

5. Annual Registration Fee

Annual registration fees vary based on the vehicle's weight and type.

Passenger Vehicles:
- Up to 2,499 lbs: $14.50
- 2,500 to 3,499 lbs: $22.50
- 3,500 lbs and over: $32.50
Trucks:
- Up to 1,999 lbs: $14.50
- 2,000 to 3,000 lbs: $22.50
- 3,001 to 5,000 lbs: $32.50
Motorcycles: $10.00
Trailers (under 2,000 lbs): $5.00

Florida Registration Fees

6. License Plate Fee

If you need a new license plate or want a specialty plate.

Standard License Plate Fee: $28.00
Specialty Plate Fee: Varies (typically between $15.00 and $25.00 annually)

Florida License Plates

7. Emissions Testing Fee (if applicable)

While Florida does not require emissions testing for most vehicles, some local areas might have specific requirements.

Florida Emissions Requirements

8. Miscellaneous Fees

Odometer Disclosure Statement: Required if the vehicle is less than 10 years old.
VIN Verification: If the vehicle is from out of state, you may need to pay for a VIN verification.
Notary Fees: If documents need to be notarized.

Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form HSMV 82993)

VIN Verification Form (HSMV 82042)

FAQ: Buying a Used Car in Florida

What Kind of Insurance Does My Used Car Need?

In Florida, you must have specific types of insurance before you can register your used car:

Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
Property Damage Liability (PDL): Covers damage to another person’s property in an accident.

Steps to Obtain Insurance:

Research Insurance Providers: Compare rates and coverage options from various insurance companies.
Choose Your Coverage: Select the PIP and PDL coverage that meets Florida’s minimum requirements.
Purchase the Policy: Buy the insurance policy and get proof of insurance (insurance card).

Florida Auto Insurance Requirements

How to Protect Yourself When Buying a Used Car Privately?

Buying a used car from a private seller can be a good deal, but it’s essential to protect yourself.

Steps to Protect Yourself:

Research the Vehicle: Check the car’s history report using the VIN.
Inspect the Car: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle.
Test Drive: Take the car for a test drive under various road conditions.
Verify the Title: Ensure the seller has a clear title with no liens.
Complete a Bill of Sale: Document the transaction with a signed bill of sale.
Avoid Scams: Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and avoid transactions involving wire transfers.

Carfax - Vehicle History Reports

Consumer Reports - Used Car Inspection Checklist

Is Buying a Car Privately with Cash a Good Idea?

Buying a car privately with cash can be a good idea, but there are pros and cons:

Pros:

Negotiation Power: Cash payments can give you leverage to negotiate a lower price.
No Financing Costs: Avoid interest rates and financing fees.
Immediate Ownership: You own the car outright without monthly payments.

Cons:

Safety Concerns: Carrying large amounts of cash can be risky.
Limited Recourse: Private sales offer fewer protections compared to dealership purchases.

Tips for Safe Cash Transactions:

Meet in a Safe Location: Preferably at a bank where you can verify the cash.
Get a Receipt: Ensure you receive a signed bill of sale as proof of the transaction.
Verify Title and Ownership: Confirm that the seller is the rightful owner with a clear title.

Edmunds - How to Buy a Used Car from a Private Party

What Are Temporary Tags?

Temporary tags, also known as temporary license plates, allow you to legally drive a newly purchased car while you complete the registration process.

Types of Temporary Tags in Florida:

30-Day Temporary Tag: Issued when you buy a car from a dealer.
10-Day Temporary Tag: Issued for private party sales or when you need additional time to gather registration documents.

Steps to Obtain a Temporary Tag:

Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Temporary License Plate (Form HSMV 83091).
Provide Proof of Insurance: Show valid Florida auto insurance.
Submit Required Documents: Provide the bill of sale and proof of identity.
Pay the Fee: Temporary tag fees vary based on the type and duration.

Florida Temporary License Plates

Application for Temporary License Plate (Form HSMV 83091)