Electronic Titles versus Paper Titles: What works best for Floridians?

Many drivers in the state of Florida are turning to electronic motor vehicle titles instead of paper titles due to their convenience, among other things. Losing, damaging, or having an electronic title lost is basically a thing of the past. When it comes time to buy, sell, or otherwise transfer the ownership of a vehicle, think of electronic titles. Either you want to get an electronic or paper title, get your car title today.

What Are Electronic Titles?

Electronic titles, also known as e-titles, are titles stored in a large databases of the Florida DMV. Just like paper titles, electronic titles show proof of ownership and are available for all motor vehicles including passenger vehicles, trucks, commercial vehicles, vessels, RVs, motorhomes, and motorcycles. The convenience of electronic titles is best summarized in the following:

• Helps decrease the chance of fraud
• Helps conserve paper and reduces physical storage requirements at DMVs
• Provides Florida residents the option of expedited title transfers
• Decreases overall costs of processing, handling, and maintenance

It’s important to note that you will need a paper title if you sell your vehicle to another individual but, if you participate in the e-Title program, you can print out your title for a minimal fee. However, if you are trading your vehicle in at a dealership, you may not have to have a paper title. It all depends on the dealership’s policies.

Acquiring a Paper Title

For individuals who currently have an electronic title and would like to acquire a paper one, you will need to either head to your local county tax collector’s office or visit the website for the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). There will be a $10 expedited service fee at your local county tax collector’s office and a $2.50 service charge when you order one off the FLHSMV website.

Acquiring an Electronic Title

In the state of Florida, once a vehicle has been issued a paper title, the local county tax collector’s office cannot convert it to an e-title until the next registration renewal period. Drivers are encouraged to decide whether or not they want an electronic title when they’re first registering the vehicle. If you buy a vehicle from a dealership, you will not be able to acquire an electronic title in your name until the lien has been satisfied. Once the lien is paid off, then the owner can apply for an electronic title or paper title if preferred.