What You Need to Do to Change a Florida Car Title
Changing a car title in Florida means transferring ownership from one name to another, updating it after marriage or divorce, adding or removing a co-owner, or correcting errors on the document itself. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) handles all title changes, and the process depends on which type of change you need.
Most title changes require you to submit Form HSMV 82019 (process for Florida Title) along with your current title, proof of ownership, and identification. Some changes can be done by mail or online through the DHSMV website; others require an in-person visit to a county tax collector's office. The fee varies by transaction type but typically ranges from $75 to $225.
Key Takeaways
- Florida title changes are processed by your county tax collector's office or through the DHSMV online system, depending on the type of change you need.
- You will need your current title, a completed Form HSMV 82019, a government-issued ID, and proof of residency for most transactions.
- Name changes due to marriage or divorce require additional documents: a marriage certificate or final divorce decree.
- Processing time is typically 7 to 10 business days by mail or in person, though online transactions may be faster.
- If your title has errors or is lost, you will need to request a duplicate or corrected title through a separate process.
Title Changes Due to Marriage or Divorce
When you marry or divorce, you may want to change the name on your car title to match your legal name. For a marriage, bring your current title, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, Form HSMV 82019, and a government-issued ID to your county tax collector's office. The fee is typically $75 to $100.
For a divorce, you will need your current title, a certified copy of your final divorce decree, Form HSMV 82019, and your ID. If the divorce decree awards the vehicle to one spouse, that person's name will appear on the new title. If both spouses are listed and the decree does not specify who keeps the car, you may need a written agreement from both parties before the tax collector will process the change.
Adding or Removing a Co-Owner
If you want to add someone to your title (such as a spouse or family member) or remove a co-owner, you will need the current title, Form HSMV 82019, and government-issued IDs for all parties involved. Both the current owner and the person being added must sign the process in front of a notary public or county tax collector.
Removing a co-owner is more complex. If both owners agree, you can both visit the tax collector together and sign the new title. If one owner refuses to sign, the other owner cannot unilaterally remove them from the title. In that case, you may need a court order or a quitclaim deed signed by the departing owner.
Correcting Errors on Your Title
If your title contains spelling errors, incorrect vehicle information, or wrong ownership details, you can request a corrected title from the DHSMV. Bring your current title, Form HSMV 82019, your ID, and documentation that proves what the correct information should be (such as your birth certificate for a name spelling, or your vehicle registration for VIN or model year errors).
The fee for a corrected title is typically $75. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days. If the error is significant—such as a wrong VIN—the DHSMV may require additional documentation or an inspection before issuing the corrected title.
Where to Submit Your Title Change Request
You have three options: visit your county tax collector's office in person, mail your documents to the DHSMV, or use the online title transfer system on the DHSMV website. The online system works only for certain transactions, such as transferring a title between family members or correcting minor errors. Check the DHSMV website to see if your specific change is available online.
If you mail your documents, send them to the DHSMV address listed on Form HSMV 82019. Include a check or money order for the fee. In-person visits at the tax collector are usually fastest—many offices can process straightforward changes while you wait, though you may need an appointment. Call your county tax collector's office ahead of time to confirm their hours and whether you need to schedule.
Documents You Will Need
| Type of Change | Required Documents | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Name change (marriage) | Current title, certified marriage certificate, Form HSMV 82019, government ID | Marriage certificate must be certified by the county clerk |
| Name change (divorce) | Current title, certified final divorce decree, Form HSMV 82019, government ID | Decree must specify who retains ownership or both parties must agree in writing |
| Add co-owner | Current title, Form HSMV 82019, IDs for all parties, notarized signatures | All parties must sign in front of a notary or tax collector |
| Remove co-owner | Current title, Form HSMV 82019, IDs for all parties, both signatures | Both owners must agree and sign; court order required if one refuses |
| Correct errors | Current title, Form HSMV 82019, government ID, proof of correct information | Proof depends on error type (birth certificate, registration, etc.) |
Processing Time and Fees
Most title changes take 7 to 10 business days if you submit by mail or in person at the tax collector. Online transactions may process faster, sometimes within 2 to 3 business days. Fees typically range from $75 to $225 depending on the type of change. A straightforward name change costs around $75 to $100, while adding a co-owner or correcting significant errors may cost $150 to $225.
If you need your new title urgently, some county tax collectors offer expedited processing for an additional fee, usually $25 to $50. Ask your local tax collector whether this option is available. Keep in mind that even expedited processing does not may provide same-day results; it typically shortens the timeline to 3 to 5 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my title online if I got married?
The DHSMV online system does not handle marriage-related name changes. You must visit your county tax collector in person or mail your documents to the DHSMV. Bring your certified marriage certificate, current title, Form HSMV 82019, and ID.
What if my co-owner will not sign to remove themselves from the title?
You cannot remove a co-owner without their signature unless you have a court order. If you cannot reach them or they refuse, you may need to file a lawsuit or obtain a quitclaim deed through the court system. Consult a local attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Do I need to notarize my signature on Form HSMV 82019?
Notarization is required only when adding a co-owner. For most other changes, you can sign the form in front of the tax collector or a notary public. Check with your county tax collector to confirm their specific requirements before you submit.
How long does it take to get a corrected title if there is a VIN error?
A VIN error may require an inspection or additional verification, which can extend processing to 2 to 3 weeks. Submit your documents as soon as possible and contact the DHSMV if you do not receive your corrected title within 10 business days.
Can I change my title by phone or email?
No. Title changes must be submitted in person, by mail, or through the online system. You can call the DHSMV or your county tax collector to ask questions about the process, but the actual submission requires documents and signatures.