How Much Does It Cost to Get a License Plate in Florida in 2026?
If you’re buying a vehicle, moving to Florida, or renewing your registration in 2026, understanding license plate costs can help you avoid surprises. Florida license plate and registration fees are set at the state level, with some variation depending on vehicle weight, plate type, and whether the registration is new or a renewal.
Below is a clear breakdown of what you can expect to pay in Florida in 2026.
Standard License Plate Cost
A standard Florida metal license plate generally costs about $28 when first issued. This covers the physical plate itself, but it is only one part of the total cost of registering a vehicle.
Initial Registration Fee
If you are registering a vehicle in Florida for the first time and do not already have a Florida license plate to transfer, you will be required to pay a one-time Initial Registration Fee of $225.
This fee commonly applies to:
- New Florida residents
- First-time vehicle registrations in the state
- Vehicle purchases where no existing Florida plate is transferred
If you already have a Florida plate and transfer it to a new vehicle, this fee usually does not apply.
Weight-Based Annual Registration Fees
Florida calculates part of the registration cost based on vehicle weight. Heavier vehicles typically cost more to register each year.
- Passenger vehicles up to 2,499 lbs: ~$28
- Passenger vehicles 2,500–3,499 lbs: ~$36
- Passenger vehicles 3,500 lbs and over: ~$46
- Light trucks (up to 5,000 lbs): ~$28–$46
- Motorcycles: ~$25
- Mopeds: ~$20
These fees are charged annually and apply whether the plate is new or renewed.
Personalized and Specialty License Plates
Florida offers a wide selection of specialty and personalized plates.
- Personalized plates typically add $15 or more per year
- Specialty plates usually add $25 or more per year
These costs are added on top of standard registration and plate fees.
Additional Possible Fees
- Plate transfer fee
- Replacement plate fee (lost or damaged) — around $36
- Replacement decal fee — around $34
- Service or processing fees depending on county
New Registration vs. Renewal Costs
New registration typically includes:
- License plate fee
- $225 initial registration fee (if applicable)
- Weight-based annual registration fee
- Specialty or personalized plate fees
Renewal typically includes:
- Annual weight-based registration fee
- Specialty or personalization fees
Where and How to Pay
License plates and registrations are handled through county tax collector offices. Many services are available online, by mail, or in person.
- Valid identification
- Proof of Florida auto insurance
- Vehicle title or ownership documentation
Estimated Total Cost Example
For a first-time Florida registration of a standard passenger vehicle, total first-year costs usually range between $250–$300 or more, depending on vehicle weight and plate selection.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the cost of getting a license plate in Florida depends largely on whether the registration is new, the weight of the vehicle, and whether you choose a specialty or personalized plate. Understanding these costs ahead of time makes the process smoother and helps you budget accurately.