Welcome to the ultimate resource for Florida license plate and vehicle records. Whether you're buying a used car in Orlando, verifying a vehicle's history in Jacksonville, or just curious about Florida's driving laws, understanding how license plate lookups work is essential. This page covers everything you need to know about Florida vehicle tags, state laws, and how to find local DMV offices across the Sunshine State.
Laws & Regulations
- Rear Plate Only: Florida only requires a license plate on the rear of standard vehicles.
- The DPPA: Personal info lookups are heavily restricted by federal law. Standard lookups only show vehicle history.
- Decal Placement: Expiration decals go in the upper right corner.
Types of Plates
- Standard: "Sunshine State" or "In God We Trust" designs.
- Specialty: Over 100 choices supporting universities, wildlife, and sports teams.
- Personalized: Custom alphanumeric (vanity) tags.
Look up by City
Tax Collector Centers
In Florida, vehicle registrations are handled by local county Tax Collectors. Find the main headquarters for major cities below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I legally look up the owner of a license plate in Florida?
Yes, but with strict limitations. The federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) protects personal identifying information. Unless you have permissible purpose, public lookups only provide vehicle history, not owner details.
What information does a standard Florida lookup show?
A standard tool reveals the VIN, make, model, year, title history (flood/salvage), odometer readings, and whether the car has been reported stolen.
Do I need to return my plate if I move?
Yes. If you move out of state or cancel your Florida auto insurance, you must surrender your license plate to a Tax Collector's office to avoid a suspended license.