Personalized License Plates in Florida
What Is a Personalized License Plate in Florida?
Personalized license plates give Florida vehicle owners the option to request a specific combination of letters and numbers for their registration plate. Instead of receiving a randomly assigned plate, drivers can choose a custom sequence that reflects personal meaning, interests, or identification preferences.
These plates are issued for many vehicle categories, including passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles, and function the same as standard plates once approved.
Are Personalized License Plates Allowed in Florida?
Personalized plates are permitted under Florida law and are issued through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Every request is reviewed to ensure it meets state standards related to public safety, clarity, and appropriateness.
Once approved and properly registered, a personalized plate is considered fully legal for road use throughout Florida.
What Are the Steps to Get a Personalized License Plate in Florida?
Step 1: Confirm Vehicle Registration
Make sure your vehicle is already registered in Florida and listed under your name. Personalized plates cannot be issued for unregistered vehicles.
Step 2: Select an Available Plate Combination
Choose a custom letter and number combination that follows Florida guidelines and confirm it is not already in use.
Step 3: Complete the Required Application
Fill out the personalized license plate application with your selected plate message and vehicle details.
Step 4: Submit Your Application and Fees
Submit the completed application to a county tax collector’s office or authorized license plate agency and pay the required personalization and registration fees.
Step 5: Wait for Review and Plate Issuance
The FLHSMV will review your request. Once approved, the plate is manufactured, and you will be notified when it is ready.
What Does a Personalized License Plate Cost in Florida?
Personalized license plates come with additional fees beyond standard registration costs. These include a one-time personalization fee, an annual personalization charge, and applicable service and processing fees. Standard vehicle registration fees still apply and vary depending on vehicle type and weight.
Costs may increase if the personalized plate is issued as part of a specialty design or first-time registration.
- Personalization Fee: A one-time personalization fee of approximately $15.
- Annual Personalization Charge: An ongoing yearly fee of about $15.
- Standard Registration Fee: Generally ranges from $14.50 to $32.50, depending on vehicle weight and classification.
- Service and Processing Fees: Typically total around $5 to $10, depending on the issuing office.
- Additional or Specialty Fees: A one-time $225 initial registration fee may apply for first-time Florida registrations or specialty personalized plates.
How Long Does It Usually Take to Receive a Personalized Plate in Florida?
Because personalized plates are custom-made, they are not issued immediately. After approval, production and delivery typically take several weeks. In most cases, applicants can expect the plate to be ready within six to eight weeks, depending on demand and plate type.
What Personalized License Plate Options Are Available in Florida?
Florida offers multiple personalization options. Drivers may request a custom letter and number combination on a standard plate, select a specialty plate with a unique design, or personalize an approved specialty plate. Availability and fees depend on the selected plate style and vehicle type.
Can a Personalized License Plate Be Sold in Florida?
Personalized license plates cannot be sold or transferred to another person. They remain the property of the state and are assigned to the registered vehicle owner.
If a vehicle is sold, the plate may be transferred to another vehicle owned by the same person or surrendered to the state if no longer needed. Proper notification is required to retain or release the plate.