Most states have titling and registration laws that require residents to title and register their cars in the state—and for new residents of the state to do so within some period of time, such as 30 days. Some states require titled cars to pass a comprehensive safety inspection. And some states also require cars owned by residents of certain counties to pass an emissions test/inspection designed to improve air quality in more densely populated counties.
In Florida, residents are required to title and register their vehicles with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). New residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency, which includes obtaining employment, enrolling children in public school, or establishing a domicile. Florida does not require a state-wide vehicle safety inspection for private vehicles. However, commercial vehicles are subject to safety inspections. As for emissions testing, Florida repealed the requirement for automobile emissions inspections in 2000. Therefore, residents of Florida, regardless of the county, are not required to pass an emissions test for their personal vehicles. It is important for vehicle owners to comply with these regulations to avoid potential fines and legal issues.