Learn how to obtain an antique license plate in Florida with this step-by-step guide. Ensure eligibility requirements are met & complete the application process.
Antiques are items that are over 100 years old and are often considered valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique craftsmanship. Antiques enthusiasts often collect and preserve these items, including antique license plates. In Florida, obtaining an antique license plate requires meeting certain criteria and following a specific process. This article will guide you through the steps of getting an antique license plate in Florida.
What is an Antique License Plate?
An antique license plate is a special type of license plate that is issued to vehicles that are at least 30 years old and are primarily used for exhibitions, parades, or other similar activities. Antique license plates are issued for a one-time fee and do not require yearly renewal. In Florida, antique license plates have a black background with silver or white letters and numbers.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an antique license plate in Florida, the vehicle must meet the following criteria:
- The vehicle must be at least 30 years old.
- The vehicle must be owned and operated as a collector’s item.
- The vehicle must not be used for regular transportation.
- The vehicle must be insured as a collector’s item.
Application Process
To apply for an antique license plate in Florida, follow these steps:
- Obtain a title for the vehicle. If the vehicle is not titled in Florida, you must obtain a Florida title.
- Complete Form HSMV 83039, Application for Antique License Plate. The form is available online or at a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office.
- Provide proof of insurance for the vehicle. The insurance policy must cover the vehicle as a collector’s item and must be in effect at the time of application.
- Pay the one-time fee for the antique license plate. As of 2023, the fee is $61.50.
Renewal Process
Antique license plates do not require yearly renewal in Florida. However, the vehicle must be insured as a collector’s item and cannot be used for regular transportation. If the vehicle is sold or the ownership is transferred, the antique license plate must be surrendered to the DHSMV.
Conclusion
Obtaining an antique license plate in Florida is a straightforward process that requires meeting certain eligibility criteria and following specific steps. By obtaining an antique license plate, you can showcase your vintage vehicle at exhibitions, parades, and other events. It’s important to remember that antique license plates cannot be used for regular transportation and must be insured as a collector’s item. Whether you’re a collector or an enthusiast, obtaining an antique license plate in Florida is a great way to preserve and showcase your piece of history.