[Jazzper]

Apologies if this one has been addressed before but I searched on "transfer tax" and didn't come up with anything applicable. We're about ready to purchase a new car but will not actually be moving down to TV into our newly purchased property until later this year -- apres retirement.

I was recently told that when I apply for a Florida driver's license, I will also get hit with a tax (sales or transfer - he was not sure what it was called) on the purchase because it is less than 2 years old even though I will have already paid a sales tax on its purchase up north.

Is this true and if so, does anyone know what the percentage is? If substantial, I'm thinking it might be worth my while to get a cheap flight into Orlando and purchase/tag it in Florida, then drive it back up north for the next couple of months until we're full-time residents.

Thoughts????

[zcaveman]

Here is the Florida DMV website: http://www.flhsmv.gov/

From the new residents area:

http://www.flhsmv.gov/dhsmv/newflres.html

Sales Tax Information for Motor Vehicles

You bought it more than six months ago
If the motor vehicle was purchased six months or more before being brought into Florida, Florida sales or use tax or local discretionary sales surtax do not apply. You'll need to show proof that you used it for six months or more in another state or jurisdiction.

You bought it less than six months ago
If the motor vehicle was purchased and used less than six months in another state, territory of the United States or the District of Columbia, the full amount of the six percent Florida sales or use tax and local discretionary sales surtax is required. However, that is offset by the sales tax you paid in the prior jurisdiction. For example, if you owe 6% to Florida, but you paid 4% to another state, you will only owe 2% to Florida.

Also check the fees - there is a $225 registration fee for each vehicle.

Hope this helps.

Z

[Jazzper]

Thanks!

The 6 months date is probably the over/under date I'd put out there for getting layed off with a package-

But in either case, the Florida DMV rates are more than reasonable/fair.

Thanks for clearing that rumor up.

[bluedog103]

Don't know what it was called but I registered my 2008 Honda Accord last week. Cost me $445.00. Seemed pretty steep to me.
I left two vehicles registered in New York. Guess why I did that!