If your business moves vehicles that are not registered and do not have license plates, Florida may allow you to use a Transporter License Plate, commonly referred to as a transporter tag. This plate is issued to qualifying businesses and is intended strictly for transporting vehicles in the course of business operations.
This guide explains how to get a transporter tag in Florida, who qualifies, what documents are required, and the rules you must follow to stay compliant.
What a Florida Transporter Tag Is Used For
A transporter tag is a special license plate issued by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to qualifying businesses that transport unregistered, unplated motor vehicles as part of their business activities.
Once issued, the transporter plate may be used on any vehicle in the possession of the transporter, provided the vehicle is being moved in the course of the transporter’s business.
This plate is not intended for general driving or personal use.
Who Qualifies for a Transporter Tag in Florida
Florida guidance outlines specific examples of businesses that may qualify, including:
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Motor vehicle detail shops
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Van conversion businesses
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Companies installing specialized equipment on vehicles
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Licensed repossessors working with lenders
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Drive-away services delivering unregistered vehicles
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Motor vehicle dealers
Businesses That Do Not Qualify
Examples of businesses that are generally not eligible include:
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Banks and lending institutions
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Vehicle transport operators using trucks, car carriers, low-boys, or trailers
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Businesses transporting people
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Mobile home dealers
Florida’s intent is to limit transporter tags to businesses that move vehicles incidentally as part of their operations, not large-scale carrier or passenger transport services.
Documents Required Before You Apply
Application Form
Applicants must complete Form HSMV 83065, titled Application for Transporter License Plate.
Proof of Insurance
Florida requires proof of garage or commercial automobile liability insurance with a minimum limit of $100,000. In most cases, transporter tag coverage is structured as commercial auto insurance in Florida written to meet business-use liability requirements.
The insurance must:
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Be active at the time of application
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Be issued in the legal business name
Meeting Florida transporter tag insurance requirements is a mandatory part of the application process and must be completed before submitting Form HSMV 83065.
Proof of Business Status
Applicants must provide proof that the business exists, such as:
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A local occupational or business license, or
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Documentation from the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations
Where to Apply for a Transporter Tag
Most transporter tag applications are submitted through:
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A County Tax Collector’s Office, or
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A licensed plate agency
The Five-Plate Rule
Florida guidance limits local offices to issuing no more than five transporter plates per business entity.
If an application would result in more than five plates, it must be processed through an FLHSMV Division of Motorist Services Regional Office instead of a county office.
Transporter Tag Costs in Florida
Fixed License Tax
Florida statute sets a license tax of $101.25 per transporter plate.
Additional Fees (County-Based)
Other standard fees may apply, including:
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Original plate issuance fee
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Decal on Demand fee
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Service or branch fees
Because counties add standard processing fees, total costs can vary.
A practical way to confirm pricing is to ask your county office:
“What is the total cost today for a new Transporter License Plate using class code 70?”
Renewal, Expiration, and Use Rules
Plate Validity Period
Transporter tags are valid for 12 months, running from January 1 through December 31, regardless of the purchase date.
Renewals
Renewals are processed through county license plate agencies and require:
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Proof of active qualifying insurance
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Payment of renewal fees
Use Limitations
Transporter plates may only be used:
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On vehicles in the possession of the business
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While those vehicles are being transported in the course of business
Improper use can result in penalties or loss of transporter tag privileges.
Step-by-Step Checklist
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Confirm your business qualifies
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Complete Form HSMV 83065
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Obtain $100,000+ garage or commercial auto liability insurance
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Gather proof of business registration
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Submit documents to the appropriate office
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Apply through a regional office if more than five plates are needed
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Pay applicable fees
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Track renewal dates (January 1–December 31 cycle)
Transporter Tag Insurance Support
Transporter tag insurance is often part of a broader business insurance in Florida strategy for companies that move vehicles as part of their operations. The tags' approval depends heavily on having insurance structured correctly for this specific use.
Talk to a Transporter Tag Insurance Specialist
Frequently Asked Questions About Transporter Tags in Florida
Is a transporter tag the same as a temporary tag?
No. A transporter tag is issued to qualifying businesses to move unregistered vehicles as part of business operations. Temporary tags are issued for other purposes and follow different rules.
Can an individual apply for a transporter tag in Florida?
Transporter tags are intended for business use. The application process is structured for businesses or authorized business representatives.
Can a transporter tag be used on vehicles hauled on trailers?
Guidance indicates that vehicle transport operators using trucks, car carriers, low-boys, or trailers are not eligible for transporter plates, and those units must be registered normally.
Does a transporter tag expire one year after purchase?
No. Transporter tags expire on December 31. The plate year runs from January 1 through December 31, regardless of purchase date.
This article was prepared by licensed insurance professionals at American US Insurance, a Florida insurance agency providing personal and business insurance solutions.