How to Renew Your Car Registration in Florida

Applying for Florida car registration renewal is a process that you must complete every one to two years, depending on the type of renewal period you choose. Under state law, you may apply for registration renewal as early as three months in advance, up until midnight on your birthday.

Typically, you will begin to incur delinquent fees if you do not renew your vehicle’s registration credentials before the 11th calendar day of the following month. If you drive with an expired registration for long enough, you may even be charged with a felony.

To easily apply for license plate tag renewal before your vehicle’s registration expires, you may complete the process online, in person or via the MyFlorida mobile app.

Online renewal is the most convenient method for most Florida residents, but you may choose to visit a local service center if you prefer to complete the process in person. Review the sections below to learn more about the process to renew your registration credentials before they expire.

Florida License Plate Renewal Application Requirements

To renew your registration online, in person or via the MyFlorida mobile app, you must meet several important requirements. To apply online or via the smartphone app, for instance, you need to have an active automobile insurance policy on file with the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

If the FLHSMV cannot electronically verify your active insurance policy, you must visit a motor vehicle service center to apply in person. Note: For detailed information about renewing your car registration in Florida, get your copy of our free guide.

You may choose to check vehicle registration status online before renewing your license plates electronically, at a service center or via the mobile app to determine if you need to meet any additional requirements.

To complete the lookup, you must be able to provide your vehicle’s identification number (VIN) or title number.

Applying for DMV Car Registration Renewal in Florida

After performing a car reg check and gathering the information you will need to renew your vehicle’s license plates, you must decide whether you wish to apply online, in person or through the MyFlorida mobile app. To explore your options in detail, see below.

Renewing Online

After performing your car registration check under the FLHSMV’s website, you may choose to renew your credentials online. To do so, you must be able to provide your last name, date of birth and Social Security number (SSN). Additionally, you must provide your Florida driver’s license number and license plate number.

After renewing your credentials online, you will receive your new materials within 10 business days. Until you receive your new documents in the mail, it is important to retain a copy of your renewal receipt, as this serves as proof of your vehicle’s valid registration.

In Person

If you cannot apply for FL auto registration renewal online or you prefer to complete the process in person, you must visit a local FLHSMV service center.

To learn more about vehicle renewing methods and to get helpful information, download our free guide.

Via Mobile App

To apply for FLHSMV registration renewal via the MyFlorida mobile app, your address must be current with the department, and you must be able to provide the registered vehicle’s license plate number or VIN. Additionally, you must pay a nominal processing fee if you choose to pay the renewal fee with a credit card or checking account.

After completing the FLHSMV tag renewal application process, you can download an electronic copy of your vehicle’s registration card directly to your smartphone device. Then, you may use this electronic document as proof of your vehicle’s valid registration credentials until your new documents arrive in the mail.

Note: If you have lost your vehicle registration and it is expiring soon, you may renew it rather than order a duplicate. However, if your registration is lost and is not expiring soon, be sure to apply for a replacement car registration instead.