Buying a car out of state when you live in Florida
Updated November 10, 2026
Quick answer: You can buy a car in another state and register it in Florida. You'll generally owe Florida sales tax, with credit for tax already paid to the other state up to the Florida amount. You'll usually need a VIN verification (form HSMV 82042) and a plan for getting the car home.
Why look outside Florida at all
Sometimes the car you want just isn't here, or not in the color and trim you want. Other times it's here, but local dealers know it and price it that way. Looking at dealers in other states widens the pool a lot.
Out-of-state dealers may also charge lower doc fees and be less aggressive with add-ons. Even if you end up buying locally, a real written offer from another state is useful leverage with a Florida dealer.
It isn't always cheaper once you count shipping or travel. I always compare the full delivered cost, not just the price.
How sales tax generally works
If you live in Florida and register the car here, you generally owe Florida sales tax: the 6% state rate plus your county surtax on the first $5,000. It doesn't matter much where the dealer is.
Many out-of-state dealers will collect Florida tax for you and send it along with the paperwork. If the dealer collects the other state's tax instead, Florida generally gives you credit for sales tax already paid to another state, up to the Florida amount. If you paid less than you'd owe in Florida, you pay the difference when you register.
This is the area where mistakes are most expensive, and the rules have details I can't cover for every state. Before you buy, confirm how it will work with your county tax collector. I check this on every out-of-state deal before anyone signs.
Title and VIN verification
To title a vehicle in Florida that's coming from another state, you'll typically need a VIN and odometer verification on form HSMV 82042. It can usually be completed by a law enforcement officer, a licensed Florida dealer, or a Florida notary, among others. Your tax collector's office can tell you the accepted options.
On a new car, the dealer will provide a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin. On a used car, they'll provide the title or work with the lender if there's a loan. Either way, you'll pay Florida title and registration fees when you register, unless the dealer handles it.
Getting the car home
- Dealer delivery. Some dealers will deliver for a fee, or even free on certain deals.
- Open transport. The car rides on a multi-car carrier. It's the most common and usually the cheapest option.
- Enclosed transport. More expensive, but the car is protected from weather and road debris. Popular for high-end cars.
- Fly and drive. Fly in, sign in person, drive it home. Fine if the trip is short and you don't mind the miles.
Shipping prices change with distance, season and fuel costs, so get a current quote before you count on any number.
How I handle it remotely
An out-of-state deal can often happen without you ever visiting the dealer. I negotiate the price and fees, get a written out-the-door number that includes Florida tax where possible, and confirm how the title and registration will be handled.
Then the paperwork goes out by e-signature or overnight mail, the payment is made directly to the dealer, and the car gets shipped or delivered. I never ask you to send me money for the car. I'll go over each step with you before you commit.
If you're in Florida, a good place to start is the Florida dealer fees guide, so you know what to compare against.
Questions people ask me
Do I pay sales tax twice if I buy out of state?
Generally no. Florida usually gives credit for sales tax already paid to another state, up to the Florida amount. Confirm with your county tax collector before you buy.
What is form HSMV 82042?
It's Florida's VIN and odometer verification form. Vehicles coming from out of state typically need it completed before they can be titled here.
Do I have to travel to pick up the car?
Not always. Many dealers can do paperwork remotely, and the car can be shipped to you. Some people prefer to fly in and drive it home.
Next step
Tell me the car you want through the quote form, and I'll shop dealers nationwide and in Florida and show you the full delivered cost for each. It also helps to know how out-the-door quotes work.
General information only, not tax or legal advice. Tax rates, fees and rules change, so confirm current figures with your county tax collector or the relevant agency.