Quick answer

Use HSMV 83146 through a county tax collector or license plate agency to replace a lost, stolen, defaced, damaged, destroyed or lost-in-transit Florida validation decal. A police report can affect the fee for a stolen item, and a lost-in-transit request may qualify for no-fee replacement when made within the official time limit.

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Build a Florida Tag or Title Document Checklist

Select a transaction. The checklist stays in your browser and does not collect names, VINs, plate numbers or document images. An office can require additional evidence for the actual record.

Replacement Categories Matter

The form distinguishes damaged, defaced, lost, destroyed, stolen and lost-in-transit items. Use the accurate category. Calling a lost decal “stolen” without a police report can create delays and does not automatically remove fees.

Form HSMV 83146

Complete the owner and vehicle sections accurately. Mail requests generally need a copy of the Florida registration certificate. Specialty items not issued by the local office may have a different submission route.

Stolen Decal

Report suspected theft to law enforcement. The official form instructions state that a stolen plate or decal may be replaced without charge when a qualifying police report or law-enforcement case documentation is provided. Keep the case number and replacement receipt.

Decal Lost in the Mail

The form instructions describe no-fee replacement for a plate, decal or permit lost in transit when application is made within 180 days of issuance. Correct the address before reordering and keep the original transaction confirmation.

Apply the New Decal Correctly

Remove loose material without altering the plate, place the current decal in the designated area, and make sure older stickers do not obscure the current month/year or plate details. Do not use a photocopy or homemade sticker.

Driving While Waiting

Carry the official registration and replacement receipt, but do not assume they excuse every display violation. Ask the issuing office what temporary proof is recognized and avoid driving when the plate or registration is invalid.

Found outdated information?

Requirements can change by transaction and record. Include the exact official error, form or procedure when reporting an update.

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