Florida HSMV Form 86720: Dealer License Renewal Guide

Florida HSMV Form 86720: Dealer License Renewal Guide – Florida motor vehicle, mobile home, and recreational vehicle (RV) dealers must renew their licenses regularly to stay compliant with state law. The official document for this process is HSMV Form 86720, the Renewal Application for Motor Vehicle, Mobile Home, or Recreational Vehicle Dealers issued by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

This comprehensive guide explains everything U.S. dealers need to know about Form 86720, including who must use it, required documents, fees, deadlines, and how to submit the application correctly. All information is based on official FLHSMV resources and current Florida Statutes.

What Is Florida HSMV Form 86720?

HSMV Form 86720 is the official renewal application used by licensed dealers in Florida to renew their primary and supplemental locations. The form covers:

  • Motor vehicle dealers (franchise, independent, wholesale, auction, and salvage)
  • Mobile home dealers and brokers
  • Recreational vehicle dealers

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, this form allows dealers to renew their license annually or biennially (for two years) when there are no major changes to the business structure. It can also be used to update a mailing address.

The current version of the form is available directly from the official FLHSMV website. You can download it here: Download Official HSMV Form 86720 (PDF).

Who Needs to File Form 86720?

Any person or entity currently licensed as a motor vehicle, mobile home, or recreational vehicle dealer in Florida must file Form 86720 to renew their license. This includes:

  • Franchise motor vehicle dealers (VF)
  • Independent motor vehicle dealers (VI)
  • Wholesale dealers (VW)
  • Auction dealers (VA)
  • Salvage dealers (SD)
  • Mobile home dealers (DH) and brokers (BH)
  • Recreational vehicle dealers (RV and RU)

Failure to renew on time requires the dealer to cease operations on the license expiration date, as outlined in Section 320.27 of the Florida Statutes.

Key Deadlines for License Renewal

Renewal deadlines vary by dealer type. Submitting the complete package early is strongly recommended.

  • Independent (VI), Wholesale (VW), Auction (VA), and Salvage (SD) dealers: Licenses typically expire on April 30. Submit the complete renewal package to the regional office by March 31 to avoid issues.
  • Franchise motor vehicle dealers: Often tied to a December 31 deadline for primary location renewals.
  • Mobile home and recreational vehicle dealers: Commonly aligned with a September 30 deadline.

Applications received after the primary deadline but within the grace period usually incur a delinquent fee. After the final cutoff (for example, mid-June for certain motor vehicle dealers), dealers must submit a new original application instead of a renewal.

Required Documents for Form 86720

The exact supporting documents depend on the dealer category and whether you are renewing a primary or supplemental location. Common requirements include:

Primary Location

  • Completed and signed HSMV Form 86720 (include current business email address)
  • Applicable renewal fee (check payable to DHSMV)
  • Original surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or continuation certificate (typically $25,000; higher for some mobile home dealers with multiple locations)
  • Proof of garage liability insurance (minimum $25,000 combined single-limit liability coverage including bodily injury and property damage, plus $10,000 personal injury protection). Salvage dealers are generally exempt.
  • Current certification from the Florida Division of Corporations showing active registration of the business and any fictitious (DBA) names (available at www.sunbiz.org)
  • Proof of premises (lease agreement, proof of ownership, or property tax record)
  • For independent dealers only: Certificate of completion for dealer continuing education or pre-licensing seminar
  • Proof of identification for sole proprietors or partnerships (if required)

Supplemental Location

  • Completed HSMV Form 86720 (with current business email)
  • Lower renewal fee
  • Copy of the surety bond/letter of credit/continuation certificate used for the primary location
  • Copy of the garage liability insurance certificate from the primary location
  • Proof of premises for the supplemental site

Always check the specific instructions printed on the current Form 86720, as requirements can differ slightly by license type.

Renewal Fees for Florida Dealer Licenses

Fees are set by FLHSMV and must be paid by check made payable to DHSMV. Typical amounts include:

  • Motor vehicle dealers (most categories): $75 annual or $150 biennial for the primary location; $50 annual or $100 biennial for supplemental locations. A $100 delinquent fee may apply if filed late.
  • Mobile home and recreational vehicle dealers: Higher fees, commonly $140 annual or $280 biennial for the primary location, with corresponding supplemental fees and higher delinquent penalties in some cases.

Biennial renewal can reduce administrative burden but requires that bonds and insurance remain valid for the full two-year period.

How to Complete and Submit Form 86720?

  1. Download the latest version of the form from the official FLHSMV site: HSMV 86720 PDF.
  2. Fill out all required fields accurately. Do not use white-out or correction tape.
  3. Provide a current, reliable business email address. FLHSMV uses email for important notices. Add [email protected] to your contacts to prevent messages from going to spam.
  4. Answer the felony conviction question truthfully and attach supporting documents if applicable.
  5. Have an authorized officer or principal sign the form under penalty of perjury.
  6. Gather all required supporting documents and the correct fee.
  7. Submit the complete package to the FLHSMV Regional Office responsible for your dealership (not to Tallahassee headquarters). Find your regional office using the official locations page on the FLHSMV website.

Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process

  • Start early — gather bonds, insurance certificates, and corporate documents well before the deadline.
  • Use a role-based or permanent dealership email rather than an individual’s personal address.
  • Verify that your surety bond or letter of credit is signed by the dealership principal.
  • Confirm insurance certificates include the required minimum coverage and agent signature.
  • If you need to change officers, business name, or other major details, use Form HSMV 86072 (Modification) or the original application form as directed by FLHSMV.
  • Contact your regional Motorist Services office with any questions before submitting.

Official Resources and Additional Forms

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official FLHSMV sources:

Conclusion

Staying current with your Florida dealer license is essential for legal operation. Completing and submitting HSMV Form 86720 on time, along with all required documentation and fees, ensures uninterrupted business activity. Download the official form today, review the specific requirements for your license type, and submit early to the correct regional office.

For personalized guidance, contact your local FLHSMV Regional Office or consult a qualified professional familiar with Florida dealer licensing regulations. Requirements can change, so always verify the latest instructions directly with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

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