What Is Needed When Purchasing a Vehicle From a Private Seller in Florida?

When purchasing a vehicle from a private party in the state of Florida, you must obtain the title, with the appropriate portion filled out and signed by the seller. In addition, you have to fill out the Application for Title. These two documents must be submitted to your local Department of Motor Vehicle Office, together with a receipt that shows payment of the mandatory fees.

Title

First and foremost, you must obtain the title of the vehicle. Check all pertinent information printed on the title and ensure it matches the claims made by the seller. The correct model year and model information are always those printed on the title. The name of the legal owner of the vehicle will likewise be displayed on the title document.

The legal owner must complete the "Transfer of Title by Seller" section of the title, signing his or her name and dating the transaction. When in doubt, ask for identification to ensure the individual signing the title is the actual owner of the vehicle. Only the owner or someone who is given power of attorney for this transaction can sign the title over to you.

Application for Title

After obtaining the title, complete with the seller's signature, you need to fill out the "Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration." The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, information on co-owners, the intended use of the vehicle and information on lien holders. The odometer reading of the vehicle at the time of the purchase also must be recorded and the form signed and dated.

If no sales tax is due on the vehicle, the reason for the exemption must be noted. Such reasons include, but are not limited to, the transfer of title due to inheritance and the exchange of one vehicle for another of the same or lower value.

Sales and Use Tax

Before you can proceed with the transfer of title and registration, the tax due on the transaction must be paid to your county's tax collector office. The intended use of the vehicle and the value will determine the tax due. If the vehicle was obtained at significantly less than fair market value, make sure to obtain a Bill of Sale from the previous owner stating this sale price. Otherwise, the tax assessment will be based on the estimated fair market value of the vehicle.

Submit Application

When you have collected all necessary documentation, you can apply in person at your local tax collector or license plate agency, or mail in the package. Expedited service is available in some tax collector offices for an additional $10. Contact your local tax collector office to find out if it offers expedited service.