What is "Registration Only"?

When a bank, financial institution, or lease company holds the out-of-state title, the State of Florida provides for an exception that allows the owner(s) to only register their vehicle without transferring their out-of-state title to Florida first. This situation is referred to as "Registration Only”.

In Manatee County, “Registration Only” license plates and decals may only be renewed for up to five years. After the fifth year, the out-of-state title must be transferred to Florida. See the section titled “Why Can’t I Renew” below for more details.

First-Time Registration Only Requirements

In order to obtain a Florida license plate and be exempt from title requirements, you must bring the following to our office when applying for a “Registration Only” license plate and decal for the first time:

• Current out-of-state registration for the specific vehicle
• Proof of current Florida insurance for the specific vehicle
• At least one registered owner or person appointed power of attorney must be present with their state-issued driver license or ID card (with photo). If completing the transaction by power of attorney, a legible photocopy of the registered owner(s) and the person appointed power of attorney’s driver license or ID card must be submitted.
• Vehicle must be present to complete a VIN and odometer verification (a courtesy done by our office, weather permitting)
• One of the following to prove the title for the specific vehicle is in the possession of the bank, financial institution or lease company:
• Payment book
• Lease agreement
• Lienholder’s retail contract
• Out-of-state registration with lienholder/lease information

If you paid off your loan or bought out your lease, refer to our Out-of-State Title Checklist for more information.

If you do not have the title and you’ve paid off your loan or bought out your lease, you must contact your bank, financial institution or lease company to request that the title be sent to you. Once you receive the title, refer to our Out-of-State Title Checklist for more information.

If you do not have the title because you are still making payments to a bank or financial institution, contact our office at (941) 741-4800 for assistance.