Where to Request a Duplicate Registration

You can get a duplicate car registration from the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), officially called the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). The fastest way is to visit a local DMV office in person with your driver's license or ID and your vehicle identification number (VIN). You can find your VIN on your current registration, insurance card, or the dashboard on the driver's side of your windshield.

If you cannot visit in person, you can request a duplicate by mail or through the DHSMV website. The mailing address and online portal are both on the official DHSMV website at flhsmv.gov. Mail requests take longer — typically two to three weeks — while in-person requests are usually completed the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Florida DMV office with your ID and VIN to get a duplicate registration on the same day.
  • The fee for a duplicate registration is $5, payable by cash, check, or card at the office.
  • If you mail your request, include a completed Form HSMV 82053 and a check or money order for $5 plus $2 for postage.
  • You can also request a duplicate through the DHSMV website if you have a valid Florida driver's license or ID number.
  • Bring proof of ownership (like your title or insurance card) if the registration is in someone else's name.

What You Need to Bring to the DMV

Bring your valid Florida driver's license or state ID card. If you do not have one, bring another form of government-issued photo ID. You will also need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which you can provide verbally or written on a piece of paper — you do not need to bring the vehicle itself.

If the registration is in someone else's name or you are requesting it on behalf of the vehicle owner, bring a notarized power of attorney or written authorization from the owner. If the vehicle title is in a different name than the current owner, bring the title document or a bill of sale showing the transfer.

Requesting by Mail or Online

To request by mail, read Form HSMV 82053 from the DHSMV website or ask for it at any DMV office. Fill in your name, address, VIN, and license plate number. Include a check or money order for $7 ($5 for the duplicate plus $2 for postage). Mail it to the address listed on the form — this varies by county, so check the form before mailing.

To request online, go to flhsmv.gov and look for the "Order a Duplicate Registration" option. You will need your Florida driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and your VIN. The fee is $5, charged to a debit or credit card. The registration will be mailed to the address on file with the DMV within 7 to 10 business days.

DMV Office Locations and Hours

Florida has DMV offices in every county. Search for the office nearest you on flhsmv.gov by entering your city or zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. A few offices require you to make an appointment online before visiting; check your local office's page to see if appointments are needed.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in smaller towns usually have shorter waits than those in major cities. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means less waiting.

What Happens If Your Registration Was Lost or Damaged

If your registration is lost, stolen, or too damaged to read, the process is the same as requesting any duplicate. You do not need to file a police report or provide proof of loss — the DMV will issue a replacement based on your ID and VIN alone.

If your registration was damaged by water, fire, or wear, bring the damaged copy with you to the DMV office if you have it. This is not required, but it can speed up the process. The DMV will destroy the damaged copy and issue a new one.

Fees and Payment Methods

The fee for a duplicate registration is $5. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at any DMV office. If you are mailing your request, send a check or money order for $7 ($5 for the duplicate plus $2 for postage). Do not send cash by mail.

Some DMV offices accept payment through their website before you visit, which can speed up your visit. Check your local office's page to see if this option is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a duplicate registration?

At a DMV office, you usually get it the same day. By mail, allow two to three weeks. Online requests are mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Times vary by office and how busy they are.

Can I get a duplicate registration if the car is registered to someone else?

Yes, but you need written permission from the registered owner. Bring a notarized power of attorney or a signed letter from the owner authorizing you to request the duplicate. The owner's signature must be notarized.

What if I do not have my VIN?

You can find your VIN on your insurance card, your vehicle title, or by looking at the dashboard on the driver's side of the windshield. If you still cannot find it, call your insurance company — they have your VIN on file and can read it to you over the phone.

Do I need to bring my vehicle to the DMV?

No. You only need your ID and your VIN. The DMV does not inspect the vehicle for a duplicate registration.

Can I get a duplicate registration online if I do not have a Florida driver's license?

No. Online requests require a valid Florida driver's license or ID number. If you do not have one, visit a DMV office in person or mail your request with Form HSMV 82053.