With miles of coastline and hidden paradises, Florida is one of the best states in the nation to own a recreational vehicle (RV). In fact, the Sunshine State is one of the friendliest for RV owners. Florida doesn’t require a CDL license in the owner’s state of origin, even if their home state does require special licensing. But how does an owner get from purchasing an RV to properly registering it?
What Qualifies as an RV in Florida
According to state statutes, recreational vehicles are units primarily designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping or travel use having either contained motive power or mounted on or drawn by another vehicle. This means your RV trailers still need to be properly registered with the state.
What You Need for Registering an RV
Insurance
This goes for any moving vehicle, but if you’re driving it, it needs to be insured by a Florida insurance agency. Insurance policies sold by a Florida-licensed agency are reported to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Without that insurance, you can’t register a vehicle.
Title
Download the Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration, and read through the application. This will help speed up the process, and you’ll be better informed going through registration. At the top of the form, check the boxes for “transfer” and “motor vehicle.” If your original title certificate lists two owners joined by the word “AND,” you must include signatures from both owners on the application. This is critical, but it can be tricky if you’re transferring titles from out of state. Make sure that the previous owner(s) signed.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
You need to have your RV’s VIN verified. The agent who does the verification will complete the corresponding section in your application.
Fees
This is the final step in the process, but it’s one that people often forget about. After you submit your completed documents, you will need to pay the various state and local fees associated with getting your RV registered. Make sure you’re informed of any fees you will need to pay upfront, and be prepared to pay them before taking your RV out on the road.
If you’re a Florida resident on the move, RVs are probably one of the best investments you can make. Tag agency OATA is here to help dealers and tax collectors process paperwork for recreational vehicles. We make registration processes quick and easy with a friendly, experienced staff. Give us a call at 407-574-5485 or get in touch with us online.
