How to Gift a Car in Florida — Tax Exemption & Required Forms
Qualifying family vehicle gifts in Florida are exempt from sales/use tax. Form required: Florida.
Florida exempts qualifying family vehicle gifts from sales tax. Family member transfers between spouses, parents/children, siblings, grandparents/grandchildren, and in-laws are exempt from the 6% state sales tax (plus county surtax) when properly documented.
Qualifying Relationships for Tax-Exempt Gift in Florida
Florida's gift exemption is broader than most states — it includes in-laws. The transfer must be documented with a bill of sale showing $0 or "gift" as consideration, or Florida gift affidavit.
Required Documents for Florida Gift Transfer
The recipient takes the signed title and gift documentation to the county tax collector. The tax collector will waive sales tax for qualifying family gifts when documentation is complete.
Key Form: Florida gift
Florida does not have a single dedicated gift vehicle form. A written and signed gift letter or affidavit identifying the donor, recipient, their relationship, and the vehicle is accepted. A bill of sale showing $0 consideration is also widely used.
Federal Gift Tax Considerations
Federal gift tax: vehicles worth over $18,000 (2024 annual exclusion) may require IRS Form 709. Florida has no state gift tax (Florida abolished its own gift tax). Only federal gift tax applies for high-value vehicle gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Florida includes in-laws in its gift tax exemption — broader than most states. The $75.25 transfer fee still applies. No smog required. Plates stay with the donor (remove before handover). A simple written gift letter is sufficient documentation.