How Much Is an Expired Tag Ticket in Florida?

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How Much Is an Expired Tag Ticket in Florida?
If you're driving with an expired registration, you're not alone - but you could be facing fines and additional penalties. In Florida, vehicle registration must be kept current to legally operate your car. When your registration expires, your Florida license plate is considered invalid, and law enforcement can issue a citation.
So how much is an expired tag ticket in Florida? The answer depends on how long your registration has been expired and whether this is your first offense. Below, we break down the costs, possible penalties, and how to avoid further trouble.

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What Does "Expired Tag" Mean in Florida?
In Florida, your vehicle registration must be renewed annually or biennially, depending on the option you selected. When your registration expires, your Florida license plate is no longer legally valid - even if your physical plate is still attached to the vehicle.
Florida law requires drivers to carry valid registration documentation at all times. If a police officer runs your plate and sees that your registration is expired, you can be stopped and cited.

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How Much Is an Expired Tag Ticket in Florida?
The cost of an expired tag ticket typically falls into two main categories:
1. Registration Expired Less Than 6 Months
If your registration is expired for 6 months or less, it is usually considered a non-criminal traffic infraction.

Fine: Typically $100–$150

Additional court costs: May increase the total to $200 or more, depending on the county

Points on license: Generally no points

Criminal charge: No

Many Florida counties allow you to avoid paying the full fine if you renew your registration promptly and provide proof to the court. In some cases, the citation may be dismissed after showing compliance, though administrative fees may still apply.

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2. Registration Expired More Than 6 Months
If your registration has been expired for more than 6 months, the situation becomes more serious.
Under Florida law, this can be classified as a second-degree misdemeanor.
Possible consequences:

Fine: Up to $500

Court costs: Additional fees may apply

Criminal charge: Yes

Possible court appearance required

A conviction could result in a criminal record, which is why it's important to address expired tags quickly before reaching the six-month mark.

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Additional Costs Beyond the Ticket
An expired registration doesn't just mean a ticket. You'll also need to pay:

Renewal fees

Late fees

Delinquent registration penalties

Florida charges late fees based on how long your registration has been expired. These fees increase the longer you wait.
If your insurance has also lapsed, the penalties can become even more severe, including license suspension.

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Why Florida Takes Expired Tags Seriously
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) oversees vehicle registration and enforcement in the state. Registration fees fund road maintenance, law enforcement, and public safety programs.
Keeping your Florida license plate registration current ensures:

Your vehicle is properly insured

Taxes and fees are paid

Ownership records are up to date

Law enforcement databases are accurate

Expired tags can also raise red flags during traffic stops, sometimes leading to additional scrutiny.

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Can Your Vehicle Be Towed for Expired Tags?
In most routine situations, officers will issue a citation rather than tow your vehicle. However, towing can occur if:

The vehicle is significantly overdue (especially beyond 6 months)

There are additional violations

The vehicle is uninsured

The driver has a suspended license

Each situation depends on the officer's discretion and local enforcement policies.

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How to Renew an Expired Registration in Florida
Renewing your registration is usually straightforward. You can:

Renew online through the official state system

Visit a local tax collector's office

Use a self-service kiosk (available in some counties)

You'll need:

Your license plate number

Proof of insurance

Payment for renewal and late fees

If you're unsure about your status, you can check your vehicle details online or learn more about requirements at resources like https://floridalicenseplate.com/.

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What If You Already Received a Ticket?
If you've been cited for expired tags:

Renew immediately.

Keep proof of renewal.

Review the citation for court instructions.

Determine whether you can submit proof to avoid court.

In many counties, showing proof of valid registration before your court date may reduce or eliminate the fine for first-time, short-term expirations.
However, if your registration was expired for more than six months, you may need to appear before a judge.

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Will an Expired Tag Affect Your Insurance?
Generally, a simple expired tag citation does not directly increase insurance rates. However:

A misdemeanor conviction could impact your record.

Driving uninsured will significantly increase insurance costs.

Repeated violations may raise red flags with insurers.

Maintaining an active Florida license plate registration helps avoid unnecessary complications with your insurer.

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How to Avoid an Expired Tag Ticket
The best way to avoid penalties is simple: renew on time.
Here are practical tips:

Set a calendar reminder one month before expiration.

Sign up for email or text reminders if available.

Keep your mailing address updated with the state.

Consider renewing for two years instead of one.

Florida registrations typically expire on your birthday (for individual owners), making it easier to remember.

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What Happens If You Ignore the Ticket?
Ignoring an expired tag ticket can lead to:

Additional fines

License suspension

Warrant for failure to appear (in serious cases)

Increased court costs

Addressing the issue immediately saves money and prevents escalation.

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Frequently Asked Questions
Is driving with expired tags a criminal offense in Florida?
It can be. If your registration is expired for more than six months, it may be charged as a misdemeanor. Less than six months is typically a non-criminal traffic infraction.
How long can you drive after your registration expires?
Legally, you cannot drive once your registration has expired. There is no grace period for operating the vehicle.
Can the ticket be dismissed?
Sometimes, yes - especially if you renew quickly and it's your first offense. Each county handles dismissals differently.

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Final Thoughts
So, how much is an expired tag ticket in Florida?

Under 6 months expired: Typically $100–$200 total

Over 6 months expired: Up to $500 and possible misdemeanor charges

The longer you wait, the more serious and expensive the situation becomes. Keeping your Florida license plate registration current is one of the simplest ways to avoid fines, court appearances, and potential criminal consequences.
If your registration has already expired, act quickly - renew, keep documentation, and respond to any citation promptly. A small delay can turn into a much bigger problem if ignored.