Florida ATV & off-highway vehicle title checklist

An off-highway vehicle bought by a Florida resident, or owned by a resident and operated on Florida public lands, must be titled under chapter 317. Chapter 317 defines an ATV as an off-highway vehicle 55 inches or less wide, 1,500 lb or less dry weight, on three or more non-highway tires, built for recreation.

A seller may not transfer a state-titled off-highway vehicle without delivering a valid certificate of title with the assignment to the buyer completed. Proper execution includes the previous owner's signature and a statement that the vehicle is debt-free or subject to a lien.

When a lien exists, the previous owner must give the new owner, on department forms, the names and addresses of all lienholders and the dates of the liens, plus a statement from each lienholder consenting to the transfer.

The buyer must file a title transfer application with the county tax collector within 30 days after the ownership change. Filing after 30 days adds a $10 late charge under the statute.

The statute sets a $29 title application fee and a $4.25 service charge per title application, and the application must include payment of (or proof of) applicable state sales tax. Tax collectors may add their own charges, so confirm the total with your county tax collector before you go.

For an initial title, the owner submits proof of ownership such as an executed bill of sale, a manufacturer's statement of origin, or another document the department accepts.

The department may issue a duplicate certificate of title if the original was lost, destroyed or mutilated; the statute sets a $15 fee. Sort this out before listing the vehicle.