Florida · HSMV 82042 · Recalls
Florida VIN check and VIN verification
Decode the VIN here for factory specs and open recalls, then use the HSMV 82042 checklist below to get the physical VIN verified for your Florida title.
VIN decoder
- Paste the 17-character VIN
- Press Decode
- Read specs & recalls
Decoded vehicle
Open safety recalls
What is in a vehicle history report? →
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Florida VIN verification on form HSMV 82042
Florida requires a physical inspection of the VIN when a used vehicle last titled in another state is titled in Florida. The inspector compares the VIN on the vehicle with the out-of-state title and signs form HSMV 82042, which you submit with your title application at a county tax collector office.
| Who can sign | Where you find them |
|---|---|
| Law enforcement officer | Local police or sheriff, often by appointment |
| Florida notary public | Banks, shipping stores, mobile notaries |
| Licensed Florida dealer | The dealer selling you the car |
| FLHSMV or tax collector compliance examiner | County tax collector office |
Florida title brands to look for
- Salvage: declared a total loss; it cannot be registered for road use until rebuilt and inspected.
- Rebuilt: a salvage vehicle that passed Florida's rebuilt inspection.
- Flood: water damage, common after hurricane seasons; check any car sold after a major storm.
- Manufacturer buyback: returned under Florida's lemon law.
Title brands travel with the VIN through NMVTIS, so a car rebranded in another state still shows its Florida history in a report.
Florida VIN check in four steps
- Match the VIN on the dashboard, the door jamb and the title.
- Decode it above and compare year, model and engine with the listing.
- Clear open recalls at a franchised dealer, or see recall check by VIN.
- Check flood and title-brand history before you pay.
Affiliate link: EpicVIN pays us a commission if you buy; your price is the same. EpicVIN price: $1 for a 3-day unlimited trial, then $49.99/month until you cancel.
Need specs only? Use the VIN decoder. Plate rules: Florida license plate lookup.
Questions people ask
Who can sign a Florida VIN verification?
A law enforcement officer, a Florida notary public, a licensed Florida motor vehicle dealer, or an FLHSMV or tax collector compliance examiner can complete form HSMV 82042.
When does Florida require a VIN verification?
When you title a used vehicle in Florida that was last titled or registered in another state, and in some salvage-to-rebuilt cases.
Does the VIN check show the Florida owner?
No. Florida releases owner details only for DPPA permissible purposes. This page covers the vehicle.