FAQs

Out-of-state registration certificates and numbers for vessels owned by military personnel on active duty in Florida are valid in Florida until their expiration date. Then they must be registered and titled in Florida in order to be operated on state waters.

Yes. All vessels operated on Florida waters must have a registration officially assigned to it and be displayed on the vessel. The purchaser of a vessel has 30 days in which to apply for registration and title. During this 30-day grace period, the owner is required to have aboard the vessel a bill of sale with proof of the date of purchase. Florida recognizes valid registration certificates and numbers issued to visiting boaters for a period of 90 days. An owner who intends to use a vessel in Florida longer than 90 days, must register it. However, the out-of-state registration number may be retained if the owner plans to return to his home state within a reasonable period of time.

Present acceptable proof of ownership (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) to the Tax Collector’s office. The total cost of registration is determined by hull length of the vessel, use, whether a Certificate of Title must be created and other factors. For a vessel fee schedule, click here.

The purchaser of a vessel has 30 days in which to apply for registration and title. During this 30-day grace period, the owner is required to have aboard the vessel a bill of sale with proof of the date of purchase.

Florida recognizes valid registration certificates and numbers issued to visiting boaters for a period of 90 days. An owner who intends to use his vessel in Florida longer than 90 days must register it with a county Tax Collector. However, the out-of-state registration number may be retained if the owner plans to return to his home state within a reasonable period of time.

If the non-motor powered vessel is less than 16 feet in length, it is not required to be registered or titled. However, if the vessel is 16 feet or more in length, a title is required.

Information about safety equipment requirements can be obtained on the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation’s website.

A certificate of title is the officially recognized proof of ownership. Ownership must be documented on a Florida Certificate of Title before a vessel may be registered in Florida *. Information identifying a specific vessel and the name of its owner is documented on the Certificate of Title.

*Federally documented vessels are excluded.

Hendry County Tax Collector’s office does not issue a business tax receipt with the description of Handyman. Florida State Law requires certain construction work to be performed only by a licensed contractor. If a handyman is not a licensed contractor, he/she may only do certain non-structural tasks. While most of the work performed in this category may require a state license, there are some tasks which do not necessitate a license such as: • Pressure Washing • Small Appliance Repair • Carpet Installation • Vinyl Flooring Installation.  For more details on the requirements for construction related work, please contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board

Yes. Some Business Tax Accounts can be paid online. Click here to look up your business tax account.  

Yes. If a business is located within one of the two municipalities found in Hendry County, then a Hendry County Business Tax receipt is required in addition to any business tax receipts required by those municipalities.

The Hendry County Tax Collector’s Office does not have a formal application to obtain a business tax receipt. To obtain a business tax receipt you will need: name of business, including the fictitious name registration, if applicable, copy of state or local licensure, if applicable, the nature of the business being performed, mailing address, business location address and either your social security number or your federal employer identification number. Please note that because the amount of tax due varies depending upon the nature of the business being performed, other information may be necessary such as the number of employees, the number of seats, the number of facilities or the number of machines. You may apply for a Business Tax Account using online registration. Please note: not all types of businesses can be paid online.

Our office now offers a convenient method to apply for a new business tax account or request changes to your account online using online registration.

On the front of your notice, please indicate that your business has closed with the date the business closed and submit it to our office in the envelope provided.

Yes; however, you must bring specific documentation to qualify for the reduced licensing fees. Click here to view First Time License fee schedule. Click here to view the License Renewal fee schedule.

Retired Florida Law Enforcement Required Documentation

If you are retired from a Florida law enforcement agency by which you were employed as a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, or correctional probation officer, you must bring a copy of an official document that shows the date of your retirement and the name of the public agency from which you retired. Simply having been formerly employed at one time as a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, or correctional probation officer is not sufficient. Note also that Florida law does not extend this fee exemption to federal law enforcement retirees or law enforcement retirees from other states.


Active Florida Law Enforcement Required Documentation

You must bring an official letter on agency letterhead stating that you are currently employed with that agency as a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, or correctional probation officer.  The letter must be signed by the agency head, the agency’s authorized representative, or the agency’s personnel officer.

No; you will need to contact the FDACS directly to notify them of your change of address.Click here for more information.

No, Revised or duplicate licenses must be obtained through FDACS.

Yes; you may renew up to 150 days prior to expiration and up to 180 days after expiration with a $15.00 late fee.  A concealed weapons license that has been expired more than 180 days cannot be renewed; an application for a new license must be made.

No, documents must be valid.

No, fingerprint cards may only be used when applying by mail.

No, passport photos may only be used when applying by mail.

  • Bring your required information* for renewal to your appointment; we will perform the notary service, take your picture and securely submit your renewal package to FDACS for final approval and issuance.
    * Required Information for Renewals

    • Your Concealed Weapon License Number or Concealed Weapon License Renewal Notice
    • State issued Photo ID that includes full name and date of birth
    • Legal name change documentation if applicable (i.e. marriage certificate, court records, etc.)

By law, FDACS has 90 days from the date your application is submitted to process it (Section 790.06, Florida Statutes). However, licenses are generally received in a much shorter time. You may check on the status of your application by calling (850) 245-5691 and selecting option 1.

The entire process should be completed in an hour or less.

Yes. All personal identifying information of applicants and licensees will continue to be confidential and exempt from disclosure as public records (Section 790.0601, Florida Statutes).

No; our office will simply accept application, take ID photo and fingerprint applicants.  The FDACS will continue to process all applications and make determinations regarding applicant’s eligibility for licensure.

A representative will direct you to a computer station where you will complete an on-line application form. (Please note that you do not need to complete an application form in advance.) Your application will be reviewed for completeness and notarized. Then, we will take your photograph and electronically scan your fingerprints.

A disabled parking permit may be issued to any individual with permanent or temporary mobility problems or who is certified as legally blind. An Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit must be completed and the disability must be certified by a licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced registered nurse practitioner, osteopath, podiatrist, chiropractor or optometrist dated within the last 12 months. Mail your completed application to:
Hendry County Tax Collector, Amy Collins
P.O. Box 1780
LaBelle, FL 33975-1780

You must provide an Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit completed by a licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced registered nurse practitioner, osteopath, podiatrist, chiropractor or optometrist dated within the last 12 months. Mail your completed application to:
Hendry County Tax Collector, Amy Collins
P.O. Box 1780
LaBelle, FL 33975-1780

Yes, Florida offers expectant mothers a temporary disabled parking permit, valid up to one year, available since July 1, 2025, requiring the FLHSMV Form 83040 application (Application for Expectant Mother Parking Permit), signed by a Florida physician, and a $15 fee, allowing use of disabled spots for closer access to medical/retail locations, though it’s facing legal challenges over ADA compliance.

In order to replace a lost or stolen disabled parking permit you must provide a completed Application for Replacement Parking Permit and an Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit completed by a licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced registered nurse practitioner, osteopath, podiatrist, chiropractor or optometrist dated within the last 12 months.

Florida Statute 320.0848 allows a temporary disabled parking permit be issued to any person who has a temporary mobility impairment not to exceed 6 months. One additional parking permit may be issued after the first 6 month permit expires. An Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit must be completed and the disability must be certified by a licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced registered nurse practitioner, osteopath, podiatrist, chiropractor or optometrist.

No, but to legally operate a 2 or 3-wheel motorcycle, scooter or moped more than 50 cc, the driver must have a motorcycle endorsement. For information and details visit the Florida Rider Training Program website .

Enclose it with a letter to the Division of Motorist Services indicating you want to surrender your Florida driver license and include your current address. If you don’t have the license in your possession, the letter should include your driver license number or social security number, date of birth, full name and indicate you no longer have possession of the license, but want us to cancel it. Sign the letter and mail to:Motorist Services 2900 Apalachee Parkway MS 24 Tallahassee, Florida 32399

You must complete the Basic Rider Course. For a full list of sponsors that offer courses and information about motorcycle endorsements, visit the Florida Rider Training Program website . Once you pass the course, you must return to our office to have the endorsement added to your driver license.

Your Florida driver license or ID card can be renewed 18 months prior to the expiration date. CDL hazardous material holders will only be allowed to renew up to 12 months in advance.

You can find out when the driver license or ID card is printed and mailed by viewing the State of Florida DL/ID Tracking System . Enter your driver license or identification card number to track your issuance. Please allow 7 to 10 days for delivery by the US Postal Service. If you have not received the card and it’s been at least 30 days since the license was printed, contact our office. Our customer service representative can then e-mail the Division of Motorist Services and they will research to see if you are eligible for a no-fee replacement. In order for them to mail you a no-fee replacement, there can be no changes made to the card. The addresses must be the same as what you entered online. Only one no-fee replacement is authorized, therefore if you do not receive the replacement, you will be required to go in person to a State or Tax Collector office.

No. You can only hold one driver license or identification card. You will be required to surrender the current out-of-state license and/or identification card when you apply for the Florida issuance. We will only be able to issue you either a Florida driver license or identification card, but not both.

In addition to providing the required REAL ID documents, we will perform a check to ensure there are no outstanding suspensions. You must also pass a vision and hearing test. If you are getting a CDL license, you will need to provide your current DOT Medical Examination Card. You must also surrender your Out-of-State driver license.

If you have already taken and passed the required exams, they will stay in our system. You will have to pay the fee to upgrade the license back to a CDL as well as any endorsements.

No. The driver license expires at midnight on the expiration date, which for most of us is our birthday. If you drive with an expired license, you may be ticketed by law enforcement. If you renew your license after it’s expired, then you will be required to pay a late fee in addition to the renewal fee.

For more information, visit FLHSMV.

For a complete list of acceptable proof of residential address documents go to FLHSMV.

You can have the person you live with complete the Certification of Address form and that person would provide the two proofs of address.

You will need to bring a primary document to establish your identity, legal presence and date of birth. Primary documents include, but are not limited to:

  • Original or certified copy US Birth Certificate or Valid US Passport. Note: If the name listed on the primary document presented differs from the name you wish to place on your driver license or ID card, due to marriage or legal name change, you will also need to bring the original or certified copy of all marriage certificates or court ordered name change in order to link the names.
  • Proof of your social security number
  • Two proofs of residential address.

Check FLHSMVfor more information.

You may obtain a temporary license which will allow you to continue driving until you are able to obtain your documents, provided the license has not been expired for more than 60 days. The fee for a temporary permit is $6.25. Temporary permits are not identification however and cannot be issued to customers holding ID cards.

Learners License Requirements: To apply for a learners license, you must be at least 15 years old.
Complete of a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course
Parental Consent Form signed by a parent or guardian in the presence of a drive license examiner or notarized if the parent or guardian will not be present.
REAL ID documents to establish your identity, proof of legal presence, proof of social security number (if issued) and two proofs of residential address.
Class E Knowledge exam consisting of 50 questions on traffic laws and signs.  You must have 40 correct answers to pass (80%)
Vision test using an eye machine.  You must have 20/40 or better in each and both eyes, with or without corrective lenses,  to pass.
Hearing test
Note: If 18 years of age or older, you have the option of completing the Learner License requirements and upgrading it to a Class E License without first being issued a Learner License. If you opt to do so, it must be completed in two steps. You would first be required to pass all written exams, then schedule an appointment to take the Driving Skills Road Test. More information can be found here.

A replacement Social Security card may be applied for through the Social Security Administration by mail or at a local office. For information on how to apply for a Social Security card, visit the Social Security Administration’s website.

A driver’s handbook and CDL handbook in English and Spanish can be obtained at our offices. However supplies are limited. They are also available online.

In Hendry County, road tests for a Class E driver license is offered at the Clewiston office and the LaBelle office to Hendry County residents only. Appointments are required. Click on the “make an appointment” button in the main menu to schedule.
For a list of other offices throughout Florida that offer road tests, click here.
For CDL skill testing sites offered by the State, click here.
For CDL skill testing sites offered by third party sites, click here.

The most common reasons for not being eligible to renew your driver license online are: Your previous renewal was by phone, mail or internet OR You hold a commercial driver license OR You are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident OR Your driving privilege is suspended, revoked or canceled and you want an ID card. Therefore, you must appear in person at a Florida driver license or Tax Collector office to renew.

Military ID cards are not on the list of acceptable documents approved by the Department of Homeland Security under the Federal Real ID Act.

If marriage is the reason for a name change, all marriage certificates must be provided in order to link the name shown on the primary identification presented (US Birth Certificate, US Passport, etc.) to the name the customer would like to place on their driver license or identification card. If the name shown on the primary document presented reflects the name you wish to place on your driver license or ID card, then a marriage certificate would not be required.

The Federal REAL ID Act of 2005 sets new standards for the issuance of driver licenses and identification cards. REAL ID is a nationwide effort to improve the integrity and security of State issued driver licenses and identification cards, which in turn will help fight terrorism and reduce fraud.

Every customer applying for a service that may result in a driver license or identification card issuance in an office must have their photograph taken. We do not have the option of using a previous picture.

Florida law allows an additional $6.25 service charge that is retained by the county for driver license and identification card transactions processed at any Tax Collector office. You may avoid paying the $6.25 fee by going to a State office. For a full list of offices, click here.

After U.S. Citizens and Immigrants have been issued a REAL ID compliant card, they will not be required to present primary identification for subsequent transactions unless their name or residential address changes. Non-Immigrants, however, are required to present all documents to prove legal presence for every driver license or identification card issuance transaction.

Yes, the only people eligible for these licenses are Florida Residents. This license can be purchased at the Tax Collector’s office or online at www.myfwc.com .

To renew your license, you can renew online, go to a Tax Collector’s office. Some licenses may also be renewed at Wal-Mart, K-Mart, various sporting goods outlets, or bait and tackle shops.

Florida residents and visitors need a Florida freshwater fishing or saltwater fishing license unless they are a member of one of the groups which is exempt. A fishing license is required to attempt to take fish. If you cast your line, catch nothing, catch and release, or catch and keep and you are not a member of one the exempted groups, you need a license. A saltwater fishing license is also required to attempt to take any native or nonnative marine organisms, such as crabs, lobsters, and marine plants. Licenses and permits are required to help or assist in the take. Someone who is passively participating (baiting hooks), whether actively fishing or not, must have a license. For a license checklist, you can visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website.

No, you are only required to carry your Florida driver license.

Only if you give up your out-of-state driver license and purchase a valid Florida driver license and register to vote or show you have homestead exemption on your property.

Eleven or more customers – $801.50
Five to ten customers – $401.50
Four or fewer customers – $201.50
** These licenses can only be obtained at Tax Collector offices

A county business tax receipt, Captain license from the Coast Guard, vessel registered as Commercial and a driver license.

The last Wednesday and Thursday in July each year.

At any of the Tax Collector’s offices or online. Some licenses may be purchased from Walmart, K-Mart, various sporting goods outlets, or bait and tackle shops

Any Non-Resident or Florida Resident fishing from a boat and the shoreline. However, there are some exemptions.

Yes, the only people eligible for these licenses are Florida residents. This license can be purchased at our office or online at www.myfwc.com.

Florida residents and visitors need a Florida hunting license unless they are a member of one of the groups which is exempt. A hunting license is required to attempt to take wildlife. Licenses and permits are required to help or assist in the take. Someone who is passively participating (ie. setting decoys or calling birds), whether actively hunting or not, must have a license. For a license checklist, you can visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website.

No, you are only required to carry your Florida driver license.

Maps can be found online at myfwc.com/hunting/wma-brochures

Any person born on or after June 1, 1975 must have passed an approved hunter education course before he or she can purchase a hunting license. Call the Everglades Region Office at (561)625-5122 for the next classes.

Florida is a titling state; therefore, all mobile homes have a title. There will be a title for each half of a double-wide mobile home.

No. Mobile/manufactured homes located on your property may qualify to be taxed as real property. Contact the Property Appraiser’s office at 863-675-5270 for an application for a real property decal. Submit the completed application and mobile home title or registration to the Tax Collector’s office for the issuance of a real property decal. Real property decals do not have to be renewed annually as the mobile home & property will be assessed on your annual property tax notice.

No. If the mobile home has been abandoned, only the park can apply for the title. There are only limited circumstances that would allow an individual to take title to the mobile home.

Yes. Decals are not transferable from owner to owner. Each new owner must purchase their own decal(s).

Florida Statute 320 requires a current registration and decal for each half of a double-wide mobile home. Registrations and decals are renewed each December. Mobile home fees are imposed by length and change every 5 feet. Florida Statutes further state it is the responsibility of the owner to know when taxes are due and what’s owed.

Partial payments are not accepted for delinquent real estate taxes.

Yes, provided your property is not in tax deed foreclosure. 

No. Once a certificate holder initiates a tax deed foreclosure on a property, all outstanding taxes must be paid. Tax deed payments must be in certified funds.

You must first be a registered buyer to purchase certificates. County held certificates may be purchased after the tax certificate sale, prior to redemption or execution of a tax deed. The cost to purchase a county held certificate is the face value of the certificate, accrued interest, and a $6.25 processing fee. A listing of county certificates may be found here: County Held Certificates.

To participate in the Tax Certificate Sale you must be a registered buyer.  Contact our office at HCTC@hendrytaxcollector.org for information.

When delinquent taxes are paid to the Tax Collector, the Tax Collector will in turn pay the certificate buyer their total amount paid plus interest earned. The certificate at that time is considered redeemed.

A tax certificate is a first lien against property and shall supersede governmental liens. The tax certificate sale is an online auction process in which bids are entered and awarded to the buyer with the lowest interest rate bid, beginning at 18% and bid down to 0 in 0.25% increments. The buyer who wins the bid will pay the taxes, interest and fees that are outstanding and begin earning the rate of interest awarded during the auction on this total amount. Simple interest accrues on a monthly basis.

For example if the tax certificate earns an interest rate of 12%, then interest will accrue at the rate of 1% per month until the tax certificate is redeemed. If there are any delinquent properties that do not receive a bid, those tax certificates are issued to the county at 18%.

Property taxes become due November 1, and are delinquent if not paid by April 1 of the following year at which time 3% interest and advertising costs are added.

Taxes become delinquent April 1st. On or before June 1 the Tax Collector must conduct a tax certificate sale auction as required by Florida Statutes Chapter 197. Once a tax lien has been issued on your property, you have up to 22 months to pay your taxes before the tax deed foreclosure process can begin.

For example, your 2022 taxes are payable on Nov 1, 2022. If no payment has been made, your taxes are considered delinquent as of April 1, 2023. A tax certificate will be issued on or before June 1, 2023. A tax deed foreclosure cannot be initiated on your property until April 1, 2025.

This information may be ascertained by contacting Hendry County Clerk of the Circuit Court by visiting their website.

Property taxes become delinquent April 1st at which time 3% interest and advertising costs are added.

Exemption applications are provided and accepted by the Hendry County Property Appraiser’s office. For more information regarding exemptions, please call the Property Appraiser’s office at 863-675-5270 or visit their web site at https://hendryprop.com/

The Hendry County Property Appraiser’s Office is the agency responsible to change property owner’s mailing address and/or any name corrections. This information is certified to the Tax Collector once a year in October through the certified tax roll. You may contact the Property Appraiser’s office at 863-675-5270 or visit their website at hendryprop.com to complete the online address change form.

You can print a copy of your tax notice from this website or you may visit one of our branch locations. Property tax search tool.

If you were not the owner of the property prior to the certification of the tax roll, the Property Appraiser’s Office may not have received notification of the change of ownership on the deed in time for it to reflect on the tax bill. The name of record does not prevent payment of property taxes to our office.

Mortgage and/or loan service companies provide our office with a list of escrowed accounts (referenced by property control number) to be paid by them annually. When you pay off your mortgage, it is the mortgage company’s responsibility to remove your property identification number from this annually submitted list. Our office will then send the tax bill directly to the property owner who is responsible for payment of the property taxes. On or after November 1st you may access your property tax information on our website and proceed with one of our convenient payment options.

Non-Ad Valorem taxes are assessments based on the benefit they provide to a specific parcel of property. The Non-Ad Valorem assessments have limited boundaries and are created by general law, special act, local ordinance, or by rule of the Governor and Cabinet. The local governing board is responsible for preparing the Non-Ad Valorem assessment roll, not the Property Appraiser.

If the first payment is not made in June, you have the option to make the payment in July and the taxpayer loses the discount. If the payment is not received by July 31st, your account will be removed from the payment plan. Full payment will then be due in November with the 4% discount.

In order to participate in the installment payment plan, you must apply prior to May 1st of the tax year for which application is being made. Example: Application deadline for paying 2023 taxes by installment was April 30, 2023. Click here to look up your account.

Yes, The Hendry County Tax Collector’s office accepts partial payments for current property taxes. While the partial payment plan is designed to assist and offer other means for taxpayers to pay their taxes, there are stipulations that must be met in order to participate in the plan. For more information on the partial payment plan, click here.

Tangible Personal Property Tax is an ad valorem assessment against the furniture, fixtures, and equipment located in businesses. It also applies to structural additions to mobile homes not taxed as real property. The Tax Collector is responsible for collecting tangible personal property tax. Changes (e.g., name, address, location, and assessed value) to the tax roll are processed through the Property Appraiser’s office.

Tangible assessments are as of January 1 of the current calendar year and are due November 1 or as soon as the Property Appraiser certifies the tax roll to the Tax Collector. According to Florida Statute 197.122, all property owners have the responsibility to know the amount of tax due and to pay the taxes before April 1 of the following year.

More detailed information regarding Tangible Personal Property Taxes can be obtained via the Florida Department of Revenue’s website and the Hendry County Property Appraiser’s office website.

The deadline for filing the Tangible Return with the Property Appraiser’s office is April 1. After April 1, Florida Statutes provide that late penalties be applied at 5% per month, but not to exceed 25%. A 15% penalty is required for unreported property and a 25% penalty is required if no return is filed. Please contact the Property Appraiser’s office for questions about the filing penalty at 863-675-5270 or visit their website at https://hendryprop.com/.

If you are applying for title in two names, each applicant, or their appointed power of attorney with the original power of attorney form must be present to sign the application for Florida title.

In the State of Florida, a motor vehicle is required by law to be registered within ten days of the owner either becoming employed, placing children in public school, or establishing residency.

Florida law requires insurance must be issued by a Florida agent with an insurance company licensed to do business in Florida. The law also requires $10,000 Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 Personal Damage Liability be carried as long as you have a valid Florida license plate.

An electronic title or e-title is proof of ownership for motor vehicle, motorcycle, mobile home, or vessel titles held in an electronic form by the Department. This electronic status gives you the same proof of ownership as a paper title. By maintaining the title electronically, the owner eliminates the possibility of losing the title and protects it from theft.

For most private vehicles the cost is approximately $406.40. For more details, you may contact our office at (813) 635-5200.

All applicants must be present with a government issued photo ID and the vehicle must be present so we may complete a VIN Verification (82042), or you must provide a properly completed VIN Verification (82042) form. If you hold the title, you must provide your valid out of state title. If you are making payments and the bank holds the title, you must provide a valid out of state registration (cannot be more than 60 days expired) and the lien holder’s information, including the lien holder’s name, address, fax number, and your account number. Proof of Florida insurance is also required. If the vehicle is owned less than six months, you will need to provide proof of purchase price in the form of an invoice or bill of sale showing the amount of sales tax paid. If the vehicle is leased, you will need a copy of your lease agreement. For more information check out our Motor Vehicle Out of State Title Transfer page.

Section 320.072, Florida Statutes, requires a $225 Initial Registration Fee be collected when the owner does not have a license plate to transfer to a newly acquired vehicle unless exempt. If you have a plate to transfer or meet other initial registration fee exemption requirements, you must complete an Initial Registration Fee Exemption Affidavit.

Yes, if you cancel your insurance on your vehicle and it has a current registration. Turn in your license plate to prevent your driver license from being suspended. If a license plate is surrendered to a Tax Collector office, the information will be transmitted to the Division of Motorist Services to prevent a suspension on the owner’s driver license. If you would like to keep your license plate, you must maintain the insurance on the vehicle until the purchaser comes into a Tax Collector office and transfers the title into their name. Once the title has been transferred out of the seller’s name the insurance may be cancelled.

Yes. Each of the specialty license plates requires an annual use fee for the special designed plate. The purpose of specialty license plates is to raise funds for a particular cause. The use of a specialty license plate is a voluntary purchase. For more information and specific specialty plate fees, please visit the Specialty License Plates Index.

You can give a general or a limited Power of Attorney to a family member or a trusted friend to handle your motor vehicle needs and registration. You must complete & sign a limited Power of Attorney form (HSMV 82053).

Personalized license plates may be ordered at any Tax Collector office. Initial personalized license plate reservations can be made any time. A $28.00 plate fee and $15.00 personalization fee is charged, upon initial application, in addition to other registration fees. The $15.00 personalization fee is charged each year upon renewal. If your current tag is 5 years old, you must order your new personalized tag two months ahead of expiration. Click here to download a Personalized License Plate Application.

  • All military license plates, except Medal of Honor, are available at our office. Medal of Honor applications and renewals must be sent to:
    Florida HSMV Division of Motorist Services
    Neil Kirkman Building
    Direct Mail MS72
    Tallahassee, FL 32399-0500
    Military license plates can be issued for use only on the following type vehicles:

    • Automobile (Private or Lease).
    • Lightweight trucks for private use.
    • Motor home or truck camper which are not “for hire” or “commercial” use.
    • Heavy trucks with a net weight 7,999 lbs. or less.
  • For a list of military license plates, click here.

Your Florida registration can be renewed 3 months prior to the expiration date.

There are three options to complete your renewal:

  • Online: Click here.
  • By Mail: To renew by mail, please submit the following items:
    • Photocopy of current registration
    • Proof of Florida insurance (photocopy of card, binder, or insurance affidavit completed by the vehicle owner) – only required for vehicles with at least four wheels
    • Check or money order, made payable to:
    • Hendry County Tax Collector
      P.O. Box 1780
      LaBelle, FL 33975-1780
  • In person: To renew in person at one of our branch offices, please bring the following items:

    • Current registration
    •  Proof of Florida insurance (photocopy of card, binder, or insurance affidavit completed by the vehicle owner) – only required for vehicles with at least four wheels
    • Payment (Cash, check or money order, debit or credit card)

Every effort is made to ensure a renewal notice is sent to the owner or registrant of all motor vehicles registered in Hendry County

No, the county that appears at the bottom of your license plate indicates the county in which the license plate was issued, not the county of residence. You are not required to replace the license plate. If you prefer to replace the license plate, a license plate replacement form must be completed by the owner of the vehicle, and the replacement fee is $43.15.

You may renew motor vehicle, trailer and vessel registrations up to three months prior to your birth month. You may can also avoid the worry and hassle of making sure your vehicle registration is renewed during your deployment by selecting the biennial (2-year) option when you renew.

No. Non-resident service members are not required to register their vehicles in Florida. More information can be found on our military page.

Yes. The package can be found on the Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles website.

Non-resident service members stationed in Florida who purchase a Florida license plate are eligible to claim an initial registration fee exemption. The person claiming the exemption must complete and sign an Initial Registration Fee Exemption Affidavit (form HSMV 82002). A list of qualifying exemptions are on the back of the form.

You will need to file a report to law enforcement and get a case number. Once law enforcement has been notified and a case number issued, the vehicle owner must complete an application for replacement license plate, decal,  or permit  and present it to a Tax Collector’s office. There is no fee to replace a stolen plate or decal.

Florida law requires insurance must be issued by a Florida agent with an insurance company licensed to do business in Florida. The law also requires $ 10,000 Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 Personal Damage Liability be carried as long as you have a valid Florida license plate.

The delinquent registration fee shall be imposed on the 11th day of the month following the renewal month. Example: If a registration expires in February, a delinquent fee will be assessed beginning March 11th. Please remember that although the late fee will not be assessed until this date, for law enforcement purposes, the registration is expired.

Section 320.06(1) (b), Florida Statutes, requires 10-year replacement of all license plates. Replacement is necessary to ensure visibility for law enforcement purposes.

If you own or operate a truck in Florida, renewal deadlines depend on the declared gross vehicle weight. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you avoid late fees:

  • Heavy trucks with a weight of 8,000 lbs or more must be renewed by December 31st.  Late fees begin January 1.
  • What You’ll Need
    IRS Form 2290 (Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax)
    REQUIRED when:

    • You are renewing registration for an applicable heavy truck
    • You are registering a newly purchased heavy truck that meets the weight threshold

The form must be stamped or receipted by the IRS before registration can be completed.

Certificate of Insurance (COI) REQUIRED when:

  • The vehicle is registered at 26,001 pounds or more, must include 10,000 PIP
  • You are registering or renewing a heavy commercial truck
  • There has been a change in weight, ownership, or insurance provider

The Certificate of Insurance must show active coverage that meets Florida requirements and list the correct vehicle information.

Light trucks with a weight under 8,000 lbs renew on the registered owner’s birthday, just like a standard vehicle.

 What You’ll Need

  • Current registration information
  • Payment for renewal
  • Any changes to weight, ownership, or vehicle information should be updated before renewing

No, the title should be completed before you arrive at the Tax Collector’s office or you will be required to obtain a bill of sale. Make sure the following are complete:

    • Odometer reading and date read. (For vehicles 10 model years or newer)
    • Selling price and date sold.
    • Signature and printed name of purchaser(s) or receiver of gift.
    • Signature and printed name of seller(s) or person giving vehicle.

All applicants must be present with government issued photo ID and proof of Florida insurance. (Provide link for fee schedule).

No, sales tax is not applicable on a gift; however, a bill of sale or an affidavit with the full description of the vehicle (including vehicle identification number, title number, make, model, year, etc) should be completed by both parties to verify this information for the Department of Revenue.

If you are applying for title in two names, each applicant, or their appointed power of attorney with the original power of attorney form must be present to sign the application for Florida title.

In the State of Florida, a motor vehicle is required by law to be registered within ten days of the owner either becoming employed, placing children in public school, or establishing residency.

Florida law requires insurance must be issued by a Florida agent with an insurance company licensed to do business in Florida. The law also requires $ 10,000 Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 Personal Damage Liability be carried as long as you have a valid Florida license plate.

An electronic title or e-title is proof of ownership for motor vehicle, motorcycle, mobile home, or vessel titles held in an electronic form by the Department. This electronic status gives you the same proof of ownership as a paper title. By maintaining the title electronically, the owner eliminates the possibility of losing the title and protects it from theft.

For most private vehicles the cost is approximately $406.40. For more details, you may contact our office at (813) 635-5200.

All applicants must be present with a government issued photo ID and the vehicle must be present so we may complete a VIN Verification (82042), or you must provide a properly completed VIN Verification (82042) form. If you hold the title, you must provide your valid out of state title. If you are making payments and the bank holds the title, you must provide a valid out of state registration (cannot be more than 60 days expired) and the lien holder’s information, including the lien holder’s name, address, fax number, and your account number. Proof of Florida insurance is also required. If the vehicle is owned less than six months, you will need to provide proof of purchase price in the form of an invoice or bill of sale showing the amount of sales tax paid. If the vehicle is leased, you will need a copy of your lease agreement. For more information check out our Motor Vehicle Title Transfer page.

Section 320.072, Florida Statutes, requires a $225 Initial Registration Fee be collected when the owner does not have a license plate to transfer to a newly acquired vehicle unless exempt. If you have a plate to transfer or meet other initial registration fee exemption requirements, you must complete an Initial Registration Fee Exemption Affidavit.