Florida HSMV Form 84256 Manufacturer License Guide

Florida HSMV Form 84256 Manufacturer License Guide – Businesses seeking to manufacture, import, or distribute motor vehicles, recreational vehicles (RVs), or mobile homes in Florida must obtain the proper license from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). The official application is HSMV Form 84256.

This comprehensive guide explains what Form 84256 is used for, who needs it, required documents, fees, bonding requirements, and how to submit a complete application. All information is based on current FLHSMV resources and Florida Statutes.

Download the official form here: Florida HSMV Form 84256 (PDF)

What Is Florida HSMV Form 84256?

HSMV Form 84256 is the official application used to apply for an initial license (or certain modifications) as a:

  • Motor Vehicle Manufacturer (MV)
  • Motor Vehicle Importer (MI)
  • Motor Vehicle Distributor (MD)
  • Recreational Vehicle Manufacturer (MR)
  • Recreational Vehicle Importer (RI)
  • Recreational Vehicle Distributor (RD)
  • Mobile Home Manufacturer (MH)

The form is issued by the FLHSMV Division of Motorist Services, Dealer License Section. The current revision is dated 06/23. Applicants must complete both sides of the form and attach all required supporting documents and the appropriate fee.

Licenses are governed primarily by Florida Statutes sections 320.60–320.70 (motor vehicles) and 320.8225 (mobile homes and recreational vehicles).

Who Needs to File Form 84256?

Any person or business that manufactures, imports, or distributes motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or mobile homes for sale in Florida must be licensed before conducting business. This includes:

  • In-state and out-of-state manufacturers whose products are offered for sale in Florida
  • Importers bringing vehicles into the United States or Florida for sale or lease
  • Distributors who sell or distribute vehicles to Florida dealers
  • Manufacturers of park models (classified as recreational vehicles in Florida)
  • Conversion companies that add living quarters to trailers or similar units

A separate application on Form 84256 is generally required for each factory location. Operating without the required license violates Florida law (including section 320.61, Florida Statutes) and can result in title work being rejected and other penalties.

Required Documents and Supporting Materials

Form 84256 includes checklists tailored to the specific license category. In general, applicants must submit the following along with the completed application:

  • Current financial statement
  • Copy of the product warranty
  • List of authorized Florida dealers
  • Copies of applicable preparation and delivery charge agreements
  • Copies of applicable warranty labor rates and parts agreements
  • Articles of Incorporation, Articles of Organization and Operating Agreement, or Partnership Agreement
  • Photos of the vehicle(s) with specifications (or brochure)
  • Proof of fictitious name registration with the Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz)
  • Proof of current business registration to conduct business in Florida (Sunbiz)
  • Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (as applicable)
  • Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
  • Acceptable proof of identification for sole proprietors or partners

Additional items may apply depending on the license type (for example, agreements authorizing distribution/importation or affidavits related to franchise agreements and federal certification).

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the specific checklist attached to Form 84256 for their category before mailing the package.

License Fees for Form 84256

According to current FLHSMV guidance:

  • Motor Vehicle Manufacturer, Importer, or Distributor: $300
  • Mobile Home Manufacturer or Recreational Vehicle Manufacturer, Importer, or Distributor: $340

Make checks payable to FLHSMV (or DHSMV). Fees are non-refundable.

For recreational vehicle and mobile home licenses under section 320.8225, Florida Statutes, applicants may elect a two-year license by paying an additional $100 at the time of initial application. Renewal fees are lower ($100 for one year or $200 for two years). The licensing period for RV manufacturers, importers, and distributors typically runs October 1 through September 30.

Surety Bond and Financial Assurance Requirements

Bonding is required for certain categories:

  • Mobile Home Manufacturers: Surety bond, cash bond, or irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of $50,000 (Form 86050 or 86059)
  • Recreational Vehicle Manufacturers, Distributors, or Importers: Surety bond of $10,000 (Form 86051). Separate bonds are generally required for each licensed plant location.

These instruments protect consumers against claims related to code noncompliance, failure to provide warranty service, or other violations. Continuation certificates or updated bonds must be submitted as required.

How to Complete and Submit Form 84256?

  1. Download the current Form 84256: https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/forms/84256.pdf
  2. Complete both sides of the application. Do not use white-out or correction tape.
  3. Select the correct license type(s) and indicate whether it is an original application or a modification (name change, location change, etc.).
  4. Provide full business information, line-makes, ownership/officer details, and FEIN.
  5. Gather all checklist documents and the correct fee payment.
  6. Mail the complete package to:
    Dealer License Section
    2900 Apalachee Parkway, Room A312 – MS 65
    Tallahassee, Florida 32399

Applicants may not engage in business until the license is issued. For questions, contact the Dealer License Section at 850-617-3003 or visit the official FLHSMV website.

Renewal Applications

Renewals use different forms:

  • Form 86218 – Renewal for Mobile Home Manufacturer or Recreational Vehicle Manufacturer, Importer, or Distributor
  • Form 86219 – Renewal for Motor Vehicle Manufacturer, Importer, or Distributor

Renewal applicants should submit by the deadline to avoid late fees equal to the original application fee in some cases.

Additional Resources from FLHSMV

Important Legal Notes

This article is for informational purposes only and summarizes publicly available guidance from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and Florida Statutes as of the latest available data. Requirements, fees, and forms can change. Always download the most current version of Form 84256 and related documents directly from the official FLHSMV website and consult the Dealer License Section or a qualified professional for application-specific advice.

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