Florida Traffic Laws

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles regulates all motorized vehicles in Florida and the laws that apply to them. Listed below are summaries of Florida traffic laws.

All Florida Drivers should know the new Texting and Driving Law in effect as of July 1, 2019

Florida Drivers License Topics


DUI, Habitual Offenders

Relocating To Florida

If you are relocating to Florida there are several things you should know about registering your car, getting car insurance, transferring vehicle titles, and possible taxes you may have to pay for cars you bring into the state of Florida.

Drivers License for New Florida Residents

If you already have a current out of state drivers license you may be able to convert your license to a Florida drivers license without taking any tests. Florida has specific identification requirements that you must meet in order to get a drivers license.

Car Registration

You must get insurance for you car, truck, motorcycle or other vehicle from a company licensed to provide insurance in the State of Florida.

To register your vehicle bring your proof Florida insurance, your original out of state title, and a completed vehicle identification number verification form to your local Florida county tax collectors office. VIN verification is required for all Used motorized vehicles titles in the state of Florida.

VIN Numbers Must be Verified by One of the Following:

  • A law enforcement officer from any state
  • A licensed Florida or out of state Motor Vehicle Dealer
  • A Florida DMV Compliance/Examiner Inspector
  • A Florida Notary Public

Sales Tax on Motor Vehicles Brought into Florida

New and used cars purchased in the State of Florida are subject to the standard 6 percent sales tax. Vehicles purchased in other states six months before they are brought into Florida are not subject to the six percent sales tax.

If the vehicle being brought into Florida was not used and purchased six months before entering Florida it is subject to the states 6 percent sales tax and must be paid before a title and license plate will be issued. But a credit is allowed for the same tax paid in another state.

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