Temporary Operating Permit in Florida: Cost, Duration & How to Get One
A temporary operating permit — sometimes called a temp tag, transit plate, or temporary registration — lets you legally drive a newly purchased vehicle in Floridabefore permanent registration is complete. This guide covers Florida's specific permit types, costs, who can issue them, and what documents you'll need.
Florida Temporary Permit at a Glance
- Duration: 30-day Temporary Tag (Form HSMV 83140)
- Cost: $5.00 base fee + applicable county surtax (typically $6–$10 total)
- Issued By: Licensed FL dealers OR FL DHSMV service centers
- Private Party Eligible: Yes
- Renewable: Yes (once)
Temporary Permit Duration in Florida
30-day Temporary Tag (Form HSMV 83140)
FL dealers issue 30-day temporary tags using DHSMV Form 83140. These paper tags are printed through the dealer's registration system and display the vehicle's make, model, and expiration date. Private buyers can obtain a temp tag at any FL DHSMV service center for $5 + county surcharges.
Who Can Issue a Temp Permit in Florida?
Licensed FL dealers OR FL DHSMV service centers
FL licensed dealers issue temp tags through DHSMV's dealer portal. Private sellers cannot issue temp tags. If buying from a private seller, the buyer must visit an FL DHSMV service center (or use an authorized tag agency) to purchase a 30-day temp tag before driving the unregistered vehicle.
Private-Party Sales: Temp Permits in Florida
Private-party buyers CAN get a temp permit independently.
FL private-party buyers can obtain a 30-day temp tag at any FL DHSMV service center or authorized private tag agency for approximately $5–$10. You'll need the signed title, proof of FL insurance, and payment. Temp tags are same-day issuance at tag agencies.
Required Documents for a Florida Temp Permit
- ✓Signed FL vehicle title or out-of-state title
- ✓FL driver's license or valid ID
- ✓Proof of FL PIP and PDL insurance (minimum 10/20/10)
- ✓Odometer disclosure (on title or separate form)
- ✓Payment of temp tag fee + applicable county surcharge
Common Uses for Temp Permits in Florida
- •Driving a newly purchased private-party vehicle while permanent plates are processed
- •Operating a dealer-purchased vehicle during the registration transition period
- •Newly arrived FL resident driving a vehicle while obtaining FL registration
- •Auction purchases awaiting title processing or rebuilt inspection
- •Short-term operation of a recently purchased vehicle not yet fully titled in FL
Florida-Specific Note
FL temp tags are strictly tied to the vehicle, not the driver. If you sell the vehicle within the 30-day period, the temp tag cannot transfer to another buyer. The new buyer must obtain their own temp tag. FL law enforcement can run temp tag numbers through DHSMV to verify validity in real time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a temporary operating permit valid in Florida?
30-day Temporary Tag (Form HSMV 83140). FL dealers issue 30-day temporary tags using DHSMV Form 83140. These paper tags are printed through the dealer's registration system and display the vehicle's make, model, and expiration date. Private buyers can obtain a temp tag at any FL DHSMV service center for $5 + county surcharges.
How much does a temporary permit cost in Florida?
$5.00 base fee + applicable county surtax (typically $6–$10 total)
Can a private seller issue a temporary permit in Florida?
Yes — Florida allows private-party buyers to obtain a temp permit independently. FL private-party buyers can obtain a 30-day temp tag at any FL DHSMV service center or authorized private tag agency for approximately $5–$10. You'll need the signed title, proof of FL insurance, and payment. Temp tags are same-day issuance at tag agencies.
Can you renew a temporary permit in Florida?
Yes — Florida allows one renewal. FL temp tags can be renewed once for an additional 30 days if registration paperwork is still pending. Visit the original issuing DHSMV office or a tag agency. A second renewal is not permitted — permanent registration must be completed.
What documents do I need to get a temporary permit in Florida?
Required in Florida: Signed FL vehicle title or out-of-state title; FL driver's license or valid ID; Proof of FL PIP and PDL insurance (minimum 10/20/10); Odometer disclosure (on title or separate form).
Create a proper bill of sale when buying or selling a vehicle in Florida.
Create a Florida Bill of Sale