Moving to the “Bold City” often comes with a long to-do list, and if you’ve brought a car from out of state, VIN verification is likely at the top of it. In Jacksonville, Florida, this isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a mandatory step to get your Florida license plate and title.
Here is everything you need to know about the process, the locations, and the “pro tips” to get it done without the headache.
What is VIN Verification?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification is a physical inspection of your vehicle to ensure the VIN on the car matches the one on your out-of-state title. This process prevents fraud and helps keep stolen vehicles off the road. You might need it if:
- You are moving to Jacksonville from another state.
- You purchased a used vehicle from out of state.
- The vehicle was previously titled outside of Florida.
Note: Brand-new vehicles (never titled) and trailers weighing less than 2,000 lbs typically do not require this verification.
3 Ways to Get Verified in Jacksonville
In Duval County, you have a few options for who can sign off on your paperwork. You will need to have Form HSMV 82042 ready for them to sign.
1. The Duval County Tax Collector’s Office. This is the most common route. You can bring your vehicle to one of the many Tax Collector service centers in Jacksonville.
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- The Catch: This is usually “weather permitting.” If it’s pouring rain (as it often does in North Florida), the clerks may not go outside to inspect the vehicle.
- Locations: Popular spots include the Downtown office (231 E. Forsyth St.), San Jose (10035 San Jose Blvd), and Beach/Atlantic (12220 Atlantic Blvd).
2. Law Enforcement. Any Florida police officer or deputy can verify a VIN. While you shouldn’t call 911 for this, you can often visit a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) substation or flag down an officer if they aren’t busy.
3. Florida Notaries & Licensed Dealers. If you’re buying from a local Jacksonville dealership, they can handle the verification for you. Alternatively, you can hire a Mobile Notary. This is the “VIP” option—available to you through Life Events Mobile Notary Services. We will come to your home or office in neighborhoods like Riverside, Springfield, Southside, The Beaches, Mandarin or anywhere in Duval County to verify the car in your driveway.
The Step-by-Step Checklist
- Download the Form: Print Form HSMV 82042 (Vehicle Identification Number and Odometer Verification).
- Locate your VIN: You’ll usually find it on the driver’s side dashboard (viewable through the windshield) and on the driver’s side door jamb.
- Check your Odometer: The inspector will also need to record your current mileage.
- Schedule a Physical Inspection: The authorized person will compare the physical VIN to your out-of-state title and sign the form.
- Visit the Tax Collector: Take your signed form, your out-of-state title, and proof of Florida Insurance to the Tax Collector to finalize your registration.
Jacksonville Pro Tips
- Avoid the Lunch Rush: If you’re going to a Tax Collector’s office, try to go Tuesday through Thursday mornings. Mondays and Fridays are notoriously packed.
- Appointments are Key: While some offices take walk-ins, Duval County highly recommends scheduling an appointment online at duvaltc.com to save hours of waiting.
- Acquire Insurance First: You cannot register your car in Florida without Florida-specific insurance. Make sure your agent has updated your policy before you head to the DMV.