Florida License Plates 2025: Complete Guide for Drivers
Florida license plates do more than meet legal requirements. They can show your identity, support causes, or display school and sports pride. In 2025, there are more standard, specialty, and personalized options than ever. This guide provides clear explanations with highlights and simple language.
Standard Florida Plates
Florida has three standard plate designs, all without specialty donation fees. These are the most common and affordable choices.
Types of Standard Plates:
- Sunshine State: Features oranges and blossoms, representing Florida’s agricultural heritage
- In God We Trust: Shows the state seal and reflects patriotic and faith-based values.
- County Name Plate: Lists your county at the bottom, making it easy to show local pride.
Highlights:
- No additional fees for standard plates
- They are easy to recognize anywhere in Florida.
- Meets all legal requirements
Speciality Plates in 2025
Florida offers over 175 specialty plates, and more than 2.3 million drivers use them. These plates often support causes, schools, or sports teams.
Top 5 Most Popular Plates in 2025:
| Rank | Plate Name | Theme/Design |
| 1 | Endless Summer | Surfer/Sunset, coastal vibe |
| 2 | Helping Sea Turtles Survive | Ocean/conservation support |
| 3 | University of Florida | Collegiate pride |
| 4 | Miami Heat | Professional sports team |
| 5 | Florida State University | College pride |
New & Redesigned Plates for 2025:
- Inter Miami CF: A new plate that is popular with soccer fans.
- Margaritaville: A lifestyle plate inspired by Jimmy Buffett.
- Save the Bees: Environmental awareness plate.
- America 250th Anniversary: A commemorative plate released in 2025.
Highlights:
- Specialty plates have a small annual donation fee that supports their cause.
- These plates let you show your style and help support important initiatives.
Personalized (Vanity) Plates
Florida lets drivers customize their plates with letters, numbers, or both.
Key Points:
- Standard Plates: Up to 7 characters (+ optional hyphen)
- Specialty Plates: Usually limited to 5 characters if there is a logo.
- Costs: $28 one-time manufacturing fee + $15 annual fee
- Availability Check: Use the official FLHSMV Personalized Plate Inquiry Tool.
- Rules: Obscene or objectionable words will be rejected.
Cost Breakdown (2025)
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
| Initial Registration | $225.00 | One-time fee if no plate is transferred |
| New Title Fee | $77.75 – $85.25 | Required for out-of-state transfers |
| Annual Vehicle Tax | $14.50 – $32.50 | Based on vehicle weight |
| Specialty Plate Fee | $15.00 – $30.00 | Annual donation for selected cause |
| Personalized Plate Fee | $15.00 | Annual fee for custom text |
Highlights:
- Fees depend on your vehicle’s weight and the type of plate you choose.
- Specialty and personalized plates are optional, but many drivers choose them.
Requirements for New Florida Residents
If you move to Florida, you need to register your vehicle within 30 days of becoming a resident.
Documents to Bring:
- Proof of Florida Insurance: Minimum $10,000 PIP + $10,000 PDL
- Original Out-of-State Title: Include registration and lienholder information if your bank holds the title.
- VIN Verification: Get a physical inspection at the Tax Collector’s office.
- Identification: All owners listed on the title need to be present with valid IDs.
Highlights:
- Registering on time avoids fines.
- You can usually complete all steps in one visit.
Renewal & Maintenance
10-Year Rule: All metal plates must be replaced every 10 years to keep them safe and visible.
Renewal Options:
- Online: MyDMV Portal or MyFlorida app (1 or 2 years)
- Kiosks: Use Publix’s Florida MV Express for instant decal printing.
Quick Renewal Tips:
- Mobile apps are fast and convenient.
- Kiosks help you avoid long lines.
- Renewing early helps you avoid late fees.
Checking Personalized Plate Availability
Steps:
- Visit the FLHSMV Official Tool
- Input your desired letters/numbers.
- Check the character limit: 7 for standard plates, 5 for specialty plates with a logo.
- Avoid offensive words; even if available online, they may be rejected.
Highlights:
- Instant availability check online.
- This helps you plan your custom plate without needing to visit the office.
Local County Tax Collector Offices
County offices manage all Florida license plates, and most recommend making an appointment.
| Major County | Tax Collector Website |
| Miami-Dade | miamidade.gov/taxcollector |
| Broward | broward.org/records_taxes |
| Palm Beach | pbctax.com |
| Hillsborough | hillstax.org |
| Orange | octaxcol.com |
| Duval | duvaltaxcollector.net |
Highlights:
- You can often get your VIN verified on-site.
- New residents should check the requirements for their specific county.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s license plate system offers a balance of tradition, style, and support for causes. Whether you like classic designs, specialty plates for causes, or personalized plates for a unique touch, there are options for every driver. With clear registration rules, easy online renewal, and instant kiosks, managing your plate in 2025 is simple and convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the standard license plate options in Florida?
Florida offers three standard plates: Sunshine State (oranges/blossoms), In God We Trust (state seal), and County Name Plate (shows your county). They have no extra fees.
How many specialty plates are available in Florida in 2025?
There are over 175 specialty plates supporting causes, schools, and sports teams. Popular plates include Endless Summer, Helping Sea Turtles Survive, and University of Florida.
Can I create a personalized plate?
Yes, personalized (vanity) plates allow up to 7 characters for standard plates and usually 5 for specialty plates with a logo. A one-time $28 fee plus a $15 annual fee applies.
What documents are required for new residents registering a vehicle?
New residents must bring proof of Florida insurance, original out-of-state title (with lienholder info if applicable), VIN verification, and valid identification for all owners on the title.
How do I renew my Florida license plate?
Plates can be renewed online through the MyDMV Portal or the MyFlorida app for 1 or 2 years. Many Publix stores also have Florida MV Express kiosks for instant decal printing.
When do I need to replace my Florida metal license plate?
All metal plates must be replaced every 10 years for visibility and safety, following the 10-year rule. Renewal and replacement can often be done together.
