Florida HSMV Form 82152 Surviving Spouse Title Transfer – Losing a spouse is difficult enough without the added stress of paperwork. Fortunately, Florida makes transferring a motor vehicle title to a surviving spouse straightforward and free of title fees in most cases. The official form for this process is Florida HSMV Form 82152, also known as the Application for Surviving Spouse Transfer of Florida Certificate of Title for a Motor Vehicle.
This guide explains who can use the form, what documents you need, how to complete it, where to submit it, and important rules under Florida law. Information is based on current Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) guidelines and Florida Statutes.
What Is Florida HSMV Form 82152?
HSMV Form 82152 is the official application that allows a surviving spouse to transfer a Florida motor vehicle title without paying the standard title fee. It applies in two main situations:
- Removing a deceased co-owner from a title that was registered in the names of both spouses
- Transferring ownership from a title held solely in the deceased spouse’s name into the surviving spouse’s name
This no-fee transfer is authorized by Section 319.32(7)(a)-(b), Florida Statutes. The exemption covers title and service fees, though an optional expedited title fee and any applicable registration fees may still apply.
The current version of the form is HSMV 82152 (Rev. 07/25). You can download the official PDF directly from the FLHSMV website:
Download Florida HSMV Form 82152 (PDF)
Who Can Use Form 82152?
Only the surviving spouse of the deceased owner (or co-owner) may use this form. Key eligibility points include:
- The vehicle must be a motor vehicle (the form does not apply to vessels, mobile homes, mopeds, or other non-motor vehicles)
- The transfer must solely remove the deceased spouse or change ownership to the surviving spouse
- No additional owners or new liens can be added during this process
If the title lists two owners connected by “OR,” the surviving owner often has right of survivorship and may not need Form 82152. In “AND” situations or when the title is solely in the deceased spouse’s name, Form 82152 is typically the correct path for a free transfer.
Required Documents for Surviving Spouse Title Transfer
Bring the following items when submitting Form 82152 at a local tax collector office or license plate agency:
- Completed and signed HSMV Form 82152
- Original Florida Certificate of Title (if available). If the title is electronic, it does not need to be printed first. If the title is lost or destroyed, note this on the form
- Original or certified copy of the death certificate (mandatory)
- Copy of the marriage certificate (required only if the surviving spouse’s name does not appear on the death certificate)
- Proof of identity: valid driver license or identification card from any state, or a valid passport
- If registering the vehicle at the same time: tag number to transfer and proof of Florida insurance
Note: Some county offices may accept a photocopy of the death certificate, but official FLHSMV guidance calls for an original or certified copy. Always confirm with your local office.
How to Complete HSMV Form 82152?
The form is relatively short. Follow these steps carefully:
- Enter the surviving spouse’s full legal name exactly as it appears on the driver license, date of birth, and Florida driver license or ID number (if applicable)
- Provide the motor vehicle description: Florida title number, vehicle identification number (VIN), make/manufacturer, year, and body color
- Indicate your preference for the new title:
- Expedited (fast) title – $10 fee for same-day service
- Title to be mailed
- Title to be held electronically
- If the original title is lost or destroyed, check the appropriate box and certify this statement
- If you are not registering the vehicle immediately, you must certify that the vehicle will not be operated on Florida streets or highways until properly registered
- Sign and date the form under the perjury statement. Type or print your name clearly
If a paper title is present, the surviving spouse typically signs the Transfer of Title by Seller section both as seller (for the deceased spouse’s interest) and as purchaser.
Fees Associated with Form 82152
Florida law prohibits charging a title fee or service charge for this specific transfer. The only possible charges are:
- Expedited title fee: $10 if you request a same-day printed title
- Registration fees: These still apply if you transfer or renew registration at the same time. The amount varies based on the order of names on the original title and the surviving spouse’s birthdate
There is no fee to mail the title or hold it electronically. Always ask your local tax collector for the exact registration amount before visiting.
Where to Submit Florida HSMV Form 82152
Submit the completed form and supporting documents in person to your local county tax collector office or authorized license plate agency. FLHSMV does not process these applications by mail at the state level for this form.
Find your nearest location using the official FLHSMV office locator: https://www.flhsmv.gov/locations/
Processing times and accepted payment methods can vary by county, so calling ahead is recommended.
Important Limitations and Tips
- You cannot add another owner or a new lien while using Form 82152
- Existing liens remain on the title; they are not removed by this process
- The form applies only to motor vehicles
- If the estate is already in formal probate, the personal representative may need to use different procedures and Form HSMV 82040
- Keep copies of everything you submit for your records
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official form instructions and the FLHSMV website. County tax collector sites often provide helpful local checklists as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the title transfer completely free?
The title fee itself is waived. You may still pay a $10 expedited fee and any registration fees due at the time of transfer.
Do I need a will or probate court order?
No. Form 82152 allows the transfer without probate when the only change is removing the deceased spouse or transferring solely to the surviving spouse.
What if the title is electronic?
An electronic title does not need to be printed first. Simply note it on the form.
Can I sell the vehicle without transferring the title first?
In many cases a surviving spouse can assign the existing title directly to a buyer. Confirm with your local tax collector.
Where can I get the official form?
Download it here: https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/forms/82152.pdf
Final Steps and Resources
Completing HSMV Form 82152 is one of the simplest ways for a surviving spouse in Florida to keep a vehicle titled in their name. Gather the required documents, fill out the form accurately, and visit your local tax collector or license plate agency.
Official resources:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements can vary slightly by county. Contact your local tax collector’s office for confirmation before submitting your application.