Verifying a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in Florida
- wrighteck
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
What You Need to Know
Buying a used vehicle? Registering your car in Florida for the first time? Before you hit the road, there’s one crucial box you must check—verifying your VIN.
It might sound like just another bureaucratic hoop to jump through, but verifying your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a vital step in ensuring that your vehicle’s identity—and its history—are accurate and legitimate.
Let’s break it down.
What Is a VIN and Why Does It Matter?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is like a car’s fingerprint—completely unique. It’s a 17-character string that includes letters and numbers, telling the story of your car’s manufacturer, model year, engine type, and more. You can usually find it:
• On the dashboard (driver’s side, near the windshield)
• Inside the driver’s door frame
• On vehicle documents like the title or insurance card
Why is it important? A correct VIN is the key to verifying ownership, tracking recalls, confirming insurance coverage, and preventing fraud. That’s why Florida law takes it seriously.
Florida Law: What You Need to Do
If you’re applying for a Florida title for the first time on a used vehicle, the state requires two things:
1. A sworn statement from you (the owner) affirming that the VIN and the odometer reading are correct.
2. A physical inspection of the vehicle’s VIN by an authorized individual—this includes law
enforcement officers, licensed dealers, or a Florida notary public.
This requirement is outlined in Florida Statute § 319.23(3)(a)(2), and it helps protect consumers and the state from vehicle-related fraud.
The VIN Verification Form: HSMV 82042
The form you’ll need is called HSMV 82042 – “Vehicle Identification Number and Odometer Verification.”
This two-part form must be completed before you can get your Florida title.
✅ Part A – Owner’s Sworn Statement
This is where you, the owner, state under oath that:
• The VIN listed matches the one on your vehicle
• The odometer reading is accurate
A jurat, or notarial certificate, is included in this section. If you’re signing this with a notary public, they’ll need to witness you sign, confirm your ID, and apply their seal after verifying that Part A is properly completed.
✅ Part B – Physical Inspection & Certification
This section must be filled out by the person who physically inspects the car. If you’re using a notary public, they will:
• Check that the VIN on the vehicle matches the one on the form
• Fill in the date of inspection
• Sign and print their name
• Affix their notary seal
That’s it! Once both parts are filled out, you can submit the completed form along with your Application for Certificate of Title (HSMV 82040) to your local Tax Collector’s office.
Where to Get the Forms
All the forms you need—including HSMV 82042 and HSMV 82040—are available at your county’s Tax Collector’s Office or on the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website.
Need a VIN Verified? A Florida Notary Can Help!
As a Florida-commissioned Notary Public and Notary Signing Agent, I’m authorized to verify your VIN and complete your documentation properly and legally. I’ll come to you—at your home, your job, or wherever is most convenient.
✅ Fast
✅ Accurate
✅ Mobile & Online Notary Options Available
Let’s make the process smooth and stress-free!
Bottom Line
VIN verification isn’t just red tape—it’s a vital step in protecting your investment and complying with Florida law. Whether you’re buying a used car or registering an out-of-state vehicle for the first time, make sure you get your VIN inspected by someone authorized.
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