How to Complete a VIN Inspection in Florida
Vehicle owners must complete out of state VIN inspections in Florida whenever they apply for a title on a used vehicle with an out-of-state registration or title certificate. During the VIN car inspection service in Florida, the inspector verifies that the motor vehicle’s identification number (VIN) is the same number listed on the vehicle’s proof of ownership.
For this reason, the Florida VIN check requires the inspector to review all ownership documentation and complete a physical inspection of the used vehicle. To learn more about getting a VIN inspection and to learn about the ways in which inspections relate to car registration requirements, review the sections below.
Florida VIN Inspection Requirements
Used vehicles with out-of-state titles must undergo a VIN number inspection in Florida whenever vehicle owners need to title or register them in the state. Additionally, the state requires a VIN number check whenever motorists register or title an out-of-state trailer weighing more than 2,000 lbs.
As part of the VIN inspection, motorists must complete an application for Vehicle Identification Number and Odometer Verification (Form HSMV 82042). Applicants may obtain the form online or at their local tax collector’s office. When completing the application for a VIN number inspection, motorists must provide the following information:
- The vehicle’s year, make, color, body, VIN and the state in which the vehicle was previously titled.
- An odometer declaration.
- The name and signature of the vehicle owner.
- The names and signatures of the public notary or licensed inspector.
Note: To complete a VIN check for a vehicle manufactured before 1955, the state must inspect the vehicle’s motor number, rather than the VIN.
When performing the FL VIN number check at a county tax collector’s office, motorists may need to submit the vehicle’s out-of-state title and registration, proof of identity and proof of state auto insurance. Drivers may submit the vehicle’s registration in lieu of a title if the vehicle’s lienholder has the title certificate. Additionally, car owners who need to complete a Florida VIN check must bring the vehicle so an inspector can perform a physical examination as well.
In addition to completing a VIN inspection in Florida, motorists must register their vehicles in the state within 10 days of establishing state residency. For this reason, owners of used vehicles with out-of-state titles must verify the vehicle’s VIN as soon as possible. After vehicles undergo a VIN car inspection and receive proof of completing the verification, owners must visit their local county tax collector’s office to submit all titling and registration documentation.
VIN Inspection Exemptions in Florida
In most cases, vehicles only need to undergo VIN inspections in Florida if the car owner needs to register a vehicle with an out-of-state title or registration. As part of the state car registration requirements, however, some vehicles are exempt from undergoing inspections. Exempt vehicles include the following:
- New vehicles, regardless of whether the vehicle owner purchases a car in Florida or out out-of-state.
- Mobile homes, truck campers and fifth wheel recreation trailers.
- Trailers or semi-trailers with a net weight that does not exceed 2,000 lbs.
- Travel, camp or truck trailers.
Used vehicles with out-of-state titles must undergo a VIN number inspection, but all vehicles are exempt from emissions and safety inspections.
Out-of-State VIN Inspections in Florida
In most cases, drivers may complete out of state VIN inspections under any state law enforcement officer or out-of-state motor vehicle dealer, regardless of location. Vehicle owners do not need to complete a VIN inspection in Florida if they are outside of the state.
Furthermore, military personnel may perform an out of state VIN verification if they are away serving active duty. To complete a VIN check while in the military, a commissioned officer or Provost Marshal in active duty military service may complete the inspection. However, the inspector must hold a rank of second lieutenant or higher.
Note: If an out-of-state motor vehicle dealer completes the VIN inspection, the dealer must submit the verification on company letterhead.
Inspection Fees in Florida
Fees for completing VIN inspections in Florida vary depending on each specific situation. Vehicle owners who need specific fee-related information for vehicle inspection services must contact their county tax collector’s office.
Where to Get a VIN Inspection in Florida
If drivers prefer to complete VIN inspections in Florida rather than outside of the state, there are several local inspectors for vehicle owners to choose from. Car owners may complete an out of state VIN number inspection in Florida under a local law enforcement officer, motor vehicle dealer, state notary public or county tax collector employee. Additionally, motorists may complete the FL VIN verification under a DMV compliance examiner.
To expedite the process, the state recommends making an appointment with the examiner before heading in. Furthermore, inspectors cannot perform VIN checks during periods of severe weather for the safety of examiners and vehicle owners.
To prepare for the VIN inspection, vehicle owners can verify that the car’s VIN matches its ownership documents by checking the vehicle’s windows for an etched VIN and comparing the number with the VIN on the vehicle’s title. Both documents must match for a vehicle to pass the inspection.