Transferring a car title after the owner dies in Florida
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in Florida.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in Florida, a surviving spouse can apply with HSMV 82152, a certified death certificate and ID for a free replacement title without the deceased spouse's name. Heirs use the release-of-interest section on HSMV 82040, marked testate or intestate. If anything is disputed, talk to a probate lawyer first.
If the estate is going through probate, or family members disagree, talk to the probate court or a lawyer before you sign anything.
Last checked against official Florida sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in Florida?
Surviving spouse
A surviving spouse can ask for a free replacement title that removes the deceased spouse's name, using HSMV 82152 with a certified copy of the death certificate and proof of identity.
HSMV 82152 · Application for Surviving Spouse Transfer of Florida Certificate of Title for a Motor Vehicleflhsmv.gov checkedHeirs
The title application HSMV 82040 has a section for the release of a spouse's or heirs' interest, with boxes for testate (with a will) or intestate (without a will).
HSMV 82040 · Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registrationflhsmv.gov checkedCommon questions
Can a surviving spouse get a new Florida title for free?
Yes. File HSMV 82152 with a certified copy of the death certificate and proof of ID to get a replacement title without the deceased spouse's name.
flhsmv.govsource 2 checked
How do heirs release their interest?
HSMV 82040 has a section for releasing a spouse's or heirs' interest, with boxes for testate (with a will) or intestate (without a will).
flhsmv.govsource 2 checked
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About this page
This page summarizes official Florida sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and does not file or prepare forms. Confirm each step with the agency before you sign, pay or mail anything. Found a mistake? Email mr@marcelruettgers.com.