Florida HSMV Form 74039 Authorization to Pay Security – If you were involved in a motor vehicle crash in Florida and posted a security deposit with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to reinstate your driving privileges, you may later need to authorize the release of those funds. That is exactly what Florida HSMV Form 74039 (also titled Authority to Pay Security) is for.
This official form, revised in June 2023, lets the depositor instruct the Bureau of Motorist Compliance to release all or part of a security deposit to a specific person or entity in connection with claims arising from the crash. Below is a clear, up-to-date explanation of the form, when you need it, how to complete it, and where to submit it.
What Is Florida HSMV Form 74039?
HSMV 74039 is the official “Authority to Pay Security” form issued by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. It authorizes the Bureau of Motorist Compliance to release a security deposit that was previously posted under Section 324.051 and Section 324.061, Florida Statutes.
These statutes govern financial responsibility requirements after certain crashes. When a driver does not have the required insurance at the time of a crash that results in injury or property damage, FLHSMV may require a security deposit (cash or other acceptable security) to protect potential claimants. Form 74039 is the document the depositor uses to direct payment of that deposit to a claimant or other authorized party.
The current version of the form is HSMV 74039 (Rev. 06/2023). You can download the official PDF directly from the FLHSMV website:
Download Florida HSMV Form 74039 – Authority to Pay Security (PDF)
When Do You Need Form 74039?
You typically need this form in the following situations:
- You previously posted a security deposit with FLHSMV after an uninsured or underinsured crash.
- You and the injured party (or their representative) have reached an agreement for payment of claims related to the crash.
- A court has ordered payment from the security deposit.
- You want the Bureau of Motorist Compliance to release the funds directly to the claimant rather than returning the deposit to you.
Related forms you may also encounter include:
- HSMV 74007 – Security Deposit Refund Request (used when the deposit can be returned to the depositor after one year with no claims)
- HSMV 74014 – Release in Full of All Claims
- HSMV 74036 – Agreement for Release and Monthly Repayment Note
Form 74039 is specifically for directing payment of the deposit itself.
How to Complete Florida HSMV Form 74039
The form is straightforward but must be completed carefully and correctly. Key sections include:
- Case Number – Enter the Financial Responsibility (FR) case number assigned by FLHSMV.
- Depositor Information – Print your full legal name and state that you authorize the Bureau of Motorist Compliance to release your security deposit.
- Amount and Payee – Specify the exact dollar amount to be released and the full name of the person or entity who should receive the funds.
- Crash Details – Provide the date of the crash and the location (city or area) where it occurred. The form references the deposit being made under Sections 324.051 and 324.061, Florida Statutes, for claims arising from that crash.
- Forwarding Instructions – Indicate where the payment should be sent (name and address of the recipient).
- Signature of Depositor – You must sign the form.
- Witnesses or Notary – The form must be completed in the presence of two witnesses or a Notary Public. Both options are valid; the notary section includes space for the notary’s acknowledgment under Florida law.
Incomplete or improperly witnessed forms will be rejected, so double-check every field before submission.
Where and How to Submit the Form?
According to the official instructions printed on the form, submit the completed HSMV 74039 to your local tax collector office or driver license service center. You can find office locations on the FLHSMV website:
Find a Florida Tax Collector or Driver License Service Center
Do not mail the form to the Tallahassee headquarters unless specifically instructed to do so by FLHSMV staff. Processing is handled through local offices that work with the Bureau of Motorist Compliance.
Important Legal Background: Florida Financial Responsibility Law
Under Chapter 324 of the Florida Statutes, drivers involved in certain crashes may have their driving privileges suspended if they cannot show proof of financial responsibility. One common method of compliance is posting a security deposit with FLHSMV in an amount determined by the department (subject to statutory limits).
Section 324.061 specifically addresses when and how security deposited with the department may be released. One authorized method is upon proper authorization from the depositor directing payment to satisfy claims. Form 74039 provides that formal authorization.
Security deposits that remain unclaimed for five years or more are transferred to the State School Fund and are no longer available for refund.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Keep a copy of the completed and signed form for your records.
- Bring a valid photo ID when submitting the form in person.
- If you are authorizing payment of only part of the deposit, clearly state the exact amount.
- Coordinate with the claimant so they know to expect the payment and can provide any additional documentation FLHSMV may request.
- If your situation involves a court judgment, attach a certified copy of the relevant order when submitting the form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Form 74039 the same as a refund request?
No. Use HSMV 74007 if you want the security deposit returned to you after the waiting period and no claims have been filed. Use Form 74039 when you want the funds paid to another party.
Does the form need to be notarized?
It must be completed either in the presence of two witnesses or a Notary Public. Either method is acceptable.
Can I fill out the form online?
The official form is a fillable PDF available for download. Complete it, print it, sign it with the required witnesses or notary, and submit it in person or as directed by your local office.
Where can I get official information?
Always refer to the primary source: the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website at www.flhsmv.gov and the forms page at https://www.flhsmv.gov/resources/forms/.
Download the Official Form
For the most current and accurate version of the document, download it directly from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles:
→ Download HSMV Form 74039 – Authority to Pay Security (PDF)
Using the official form and following the instructions carefully helps ensure your security deposit is released correctly and your Financial Responsibility case is properly updated.