How do I register my new car?

How do I register my new car? There are two ways to legally own a car in Florida: buying it from a dealership or from an individual. Regardless of the acquisition channel, by law, all cars driving in the state must meet four requirements: have a license plate, be registered, pay the circulation tax, and have insurance.

As you can see, it’s not just about buying a shiny car that smells new and hitting the road. Everything has its order, and we’ll explain the process to you:

From a Dealership:

If you buy your car from an authorized dealership, the process is very easy, a piece of cake, as they say in my town. You’ll only have to sign a bunch of papers and documents, and the salespeople will take care of everything. Depending on the type of dealership, you’ll leave with your new car and a temporary plate that allows you to drive for a maximum of 30 days, while your permanent license plate arrives by mail.

From an Individual:

Things change if you purchase the car from an individual. In this case, you’ll have to handle all the paperwork on your own. First, you’ll need to register the vehicle in your name, for which you’ll have to transfer the title. Both processes can be done simultaneously at a tax collector’s office – or taxes, as everyone calls it here. Note that if it’s your first time registering a car because you’ve never had a plate or license under your name before, the initial registration will cost you around $225.

You can’t show up at the tax collector’s office empty-handed. Bring a signed title transfer application from the seller or, better yet, go with the seller to make the transfer at the same office. For this, have an identification proof with you, a valid driver’s license will suffice. Another document you’ll need to present is proof of insurance for the newly purchased car. If you don’t have insurance, they won’t let you do anything.

To get auto insurance, the solution is simple, call Univista Insurance and explain that you’ve just bought a car and ask for the best and cheapest insurance on the market.

Remember, every year you’ll have to pay a circulation tax, and every ten years you’ll have to renew your car’s license plate.

Once all the paperwork is done, you’ll be able to drive freely on the streets of Miami, without fear of being stopped by a police officer and hearing the typical phrase, “Citizen, car documentation, please!” How do I register my new car?

Call us today for a full qualification! 305-508-9575. You can also quote for free here.