Are you moving to Lantana? It’s a good choice for newcomers to the state: a tranquil coastal town nestled along Florida's southeastern shores, offering residents the charm of small-town living while still providing access to the urban amenities of nearby cities. If you’re a new resident attracted by the town’s scenic beaches, the peaceful atmosphere, and its close-knit community, you must make sure that your vehicle is properly registered with the state of Florida is an essential step in settling into your new home.
If you’ve recently moved to Lantana from another state, one of the main things to take care of will be registering your out-of-state vehicle with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLDHSMV). While the registration process may seem cumbersome, it can be efficiently managed with proper guidance. Here’s what you need to know about out-of-state car tag registration in Lantana and how to handle it.
Steps to Register an Out-Of-State Vehicle in Lantana
When you relocate to Florida, you must transfer your vehicle registration from your previous state within 30 days of either establishing residency, starting employment, or enrolling a child in public school. To register your vehicle in Lantana, you’ll need to follow these steps:
1. Gather Proof of Ownership
The first requirement for registering your out-of-state vehicle is providing proof of ownership. This document is typically your car's original title, showing that you legally own the vehicle. If your vehicle is leased, you'll need a copy of the lease agreement and authorization from the leasing company to register the vehicle in Florida.
If you have misplaced your title or if it's held by a lienholder, don’t worry—Auto Tags of Florida can assist in retrieving the necessary paperwork from your previous state to expedite the process. Make sure that your title is clear and not subject to any liens or disputes that could complicate the registration.
2. Obtain Valid Florida Auto Insurance
You must ensure that your vehicle is properly insured before registering. Florida law requires every vehicle owner to carry a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL). Make sure your insurance policy is issued by a company licensed to do business in Florida. Out-of-state insurance policies will not be accepted.
Having adequate insurance coverage helps both meet the state’s legal requirements and also provides financial protection in the event of an accident. Once you’ve secured a valid insurance policy, keep your insurance documents handy, as you’ll need them during the registration process.
3. Complete a VIN Verification
One aspect of Florida’s vehicle registration process that may differ from other states is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification. If your vehicle is being registered in Florida for the first time, the VIN must be physically inspected to ensure it matches the one on your ownership documents.
Fortunately, this step can be completed without visiting a DMV office. A VIN inspection can be done by a local law enforcement officer, a notary public, or a licensed Florida dealer. Auto Tags of Florida can help facilitate the VIN verification process, saving you time and simplifying this step.
4. Submit Your Registration Application
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, including proof of ownership, valid Florida auto insurance, and a verified VIN, it’s time to complete your registration application. Florida makes it easy to submit your registration application through a variety of convenient methods, including online and by mail.
Services like Auto Tags of Florida offer additional benefits, such as handling the paperwork for you, ensuring all forms are correctly filled out, and submitting your application on your behalf. This eliminates any guesswork and ensures the process is completed quickly and accurately.
5. Pay Registration Fees
The cost of registering an out-of-state vehicle in Florida includes a $225 initial registration fee for vehicles new to the state. Additional fees may vary depending on the type, weight, and age of your vehicle. For example, heavier vehicles may incur higher registration costs. You may also need to pay county taxes and fees related to your vehicle’s title transfer.
Once the fees are paid, your registration will be processed.
6. Receive Your Florida License Plate and Registration
After submitting your application and paying the necessary fees, your vehicle will be officially registered in Florida. You’ll receive a new Florida license plate, along with a registration certificate that must be kept in your vehicle at all times.
This plate will need to be renewed annually. Florida registration renewals can also be managed online or by mail, offering flexibility for busy residents. Auto Tags of Florida can assist with renewals to ensure your vehicle remains in compliance with state regulations.
Registering your out-of-state vehicle in Florida is not only a legal obligation but also a necessity for staying out of trouble with authorities. Failing to register your vehicle within the 30-day window can result in fines, penalties, or even the impoundment of your vehicle. It can also leave you uninsured in the event of an accident, as insurance policies may be invalidated if your vehicle isn’t properly registered.
Auto Tags of Florida is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With our professional services, we handle all the paperwork, assist with VIN verification, and manage insurance documentation, so you can focus on settling into your new home in Lantana.
Let us help you register your vehicle, ensuring compliance with Florida’s regulations while saving you time and hassle. Contact Auto Tags of Florida today to get started on your out-of-state vehicle registration and enjoy the open roads of Lantana with confidence.
