Can a Snowbird Register a Car in Florida? Here’s the Full Answer
If you’re a snowbird—someone who spends part of the year in Florida and the rest in another state—you may be wondering:
Can I register a car in Florida if I’m not a full-time resident?
The answer is yes, you can—but there are a few things you need to know to do it legally, avoid penalties, and keep everything in line with both Florida and your home state’s laws.
Let’s break it down.
Can a Snowbird Register a Car in Florida?
Yes, snowbirds can register a car in Florida even if they’re not full-time residents. Florida allows part-time residents, including seasonal visitors and long-term renters, to register and title vehicles—as long as they meet certain requirements.
However, you’ll need to provide proof of a Florida address (even if temporary) and meet insurance and documentation requirements just like a full-time resident.
What Qualifies You as a Snowbird in Florida?
You’re considered a snowbird if:
You spend part of the year (often winter months) in Florida
You own or rent property in Florida, even short-term
You reside in another state for part of the year
You don’t intend to establish full Florida residency
Snowbirds often split time between northern states and Florida but may still need to register a car locally—especially if they purchase a new vehicle or bring one for extended use.
Why Would a Snowbird Register a Car in Florida?
Here are common reasons:
You bought a car while staying in Florida
You spend more than 90 consecutive days in Florida (which may trigger registration requirements)
You want to avoid towing a car back and forth every year
You need a local plate and registration for insurance, HOA, or condo requirements
Important: If you regularly operate a vehicle in Florida, state law requires you to register it—even if you’re not a resident.
Florida Law: Who Must Register a Car?
According to Florida Statute 320.02, you must register your car in Florida if:
You accept employment in Florida
You enroll children in Florida schools
You reside in the state for more than 90 consecutive days
You engage in business in Florida
You register to vote or obtain a Florida driver’s license
Snowbirds often hit the 90-day threshold, triggering the need for Florida registration—even without becoming a legal resident.
What You Need to Register a Car as a Snowbird in Florida
1. Proof of Florida Address
Even temporary housing qualifies. You can use:
Florida lease or rental agreement
Utility bill in your name
Letter from property owner (if you’re staying with someone)
Deed or property tax record
2. Valid Out-of-State Driver’s License
You can keep your out-of-state license—you don’t need to get a Florida one if you’re not establishing full-time residency.
3. Proof of Insurance
You must carry Florida auto insurance from a company licensed in Florida.
Out-of-state insurance is not accepted for vehicle registration—even for snowbirds.
Your policy must include PIP (Personal Injury Protection) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) as required by Florida law.
4. VIN Verification
Required for vehicles not previously titled in Florida
Can be done by a:
Florida DMV agent
Law enforcement officer
Licensed Florida notary
Licensed car dealer
Use Form HSMV 82042 for this verification
5. Completed Title & Registration Forms
You’ll need:
Form HSMV 82040 – Application for Certificate of Title
Valid ID (Driver’s license or passport)
Original title or current registration (if transferring from another state)
Proof of paid sales tax (if vehicle was purchased recently out of state)
6. Payment for Fees
Expect to pay:
Title fee: $77.25 (or more, depending on lien status)
Registration fee: $46.15–$71.15 (based on weight/class)
License plate fee: $225 (first-time plate fee)
Can You Keep Your Out-of-State Plates as a Snowbird?
No. If you’re registering the vehicle in Florida, you must surrender your out-of-state plates and get Florida plates.
Trying to operate a car in Florida long-term with out-of-state plates (while residing in Florida for 90+ days) can result in:
Fines
Impoundment
Suspension of your out-of-state registration
What If You Own Cars in Two States?
Many snowbirds own two cars—one for each state. That’s totally legal.
Here’s how to manage it:
Register and insure each vehicle in the state where it’s primarily garaged
Make sure insurance matches the registration address
Don’t operate the out-of-state vehicle in Florida for more than 90 consecutive days
Can a Snowbird Get a Florida Driver’s License?
Yes, but it’s not required unless you’re becoming a Florida resident.
If you do want to get a Florida license, you’ll need:
Proof of identity (passport or out-of-state license)
Social Security card
Two proofs of Florida address
Most snowbirds keep their original license and only register the vehicle in Florida.
Conclusion
Yes, snowbirds can register a car in Florida—even if they’re not full-time residents. As long as you provide a Florida address, carry Florida insurance, and meet DMV requirements, you can legally title and register a car in the Sunshine State.
If you’re spending 90+ days in Florida and driving regularly, registering your car isn’t just smart—it’s the law.
Ready to register? Contact your local Florida DMV or tax collector’s office, gather your documents, and enjoy your winter stay—legally and hassle-free.
