The Florida Senate

320.01  Definitions, general.

320.0104  Legislative intent with respect to implementation of chapter.

320.011  Administration and enforcement; rules.

320.015  Taxation of mobile homes.

320.02  Registration required; application for registration; forms.

320.023  Requests to establish voluntary checkoff on motor vehicle registration application.

320.025  Registration certificate and license plate issued under fictitious name; application.

320.03  Registration; duties of tax collectors; International Registration Plan.

320.031  Mailing of registration certificates, license plates, and validation stickers.

320.04  Registration service charge.

320.05  Records of the department; inspection procedure; lists and searches; fees.

320.055  Registration periods; renewal periods.

320.06  Registration certificates, license plates, and validation stickers generally.

320.0601  Rental car companies; identification of vehicles as for-hire.

320.0605  Certificate of registration; possession required; exception.

320.0607  Replacement license plates, validation decal, or mobile home sticker.

320.0609  Transfer and exchange of registration license plates; transfer fee.

320.061  Unlawful to alter motor vehicle registration certificates, license plates, mobile home stickers, or validation stickers; penalty.

320.0655  Permanent license plates for governmental entities and volunteer fire departments.

320.0657  Permanent registration; fleet license plates.

320.0659  Permanent registration of trailer for hire and semitrailers.

320.07  Expiration of registration; annual renewal required; penalties.

320.0705  Semiannual registration or renewal for certain vehicles.

320.0706  Display of license plates on trucks.

320.071  Advance registration renewal; procedures.

320.0715  International Registration Plan; motor carrier services; permits; retention of records.

320.072  Additional fee imposed on certain motor vehicle registration transactions.

320.08  License taxes.

320.08001  Electric vehicles; license tax.

320.0801  Additional license tax on certain vehicles.

320.0802  Surcharge on license tax.

320.0803  Moped license plates.

320.08035  Persons who have disabilities; reduced dimension license plate.

320.0804  Surcharge on license tax; transportation trust fund.

320.08046  Surcharge on license tax; General Revenue Fund.

320.08047  Voluntary contribution for organ and tissue donor education.

320.08048  Sample license plates.

320.0805  Personalized prestige license plates.

320.08053  Requirements for requests to establish specialty license plates.

320.08056  Specialty license plates.

320.08058  Specialty license plates.

320.08062  Audits required; annual use fees of specialty license plates.

320.0807  Special license plates for Governor and federal and state legislators.

320.081  Collection and distribution of annual license tax imposed on the following type units.

320.0815  Mobile homes and recreational vehicle-type units required to have appropriate license plates or stickers.

320.0821  Wrecker license plates.

320.083  Amateur radio operators; special license plates; fees.

320.084  Free motor vehicle license plate to certain disabled veterans.

320.0841  Free motor vehicle license plates to members of Seminole and Miccosukee Indian Tribes.

320.0842  Free motor vehicle license plates to veterans who use wheelchairs.

320.0843  License plates for persons with disabilities eligible for permanent disabled parking permits.

320.0845  License plates for members of Paralyzed Veterans of America.

320.0848  Persons who have disabilities; issuance of disabled parking permits; temporary permits; permits for certain providers of transportation services to persons who have disabilities.

320.086  Ancient or antique motor vehicles; "horseless carriage," antique, or historical license plates.

320.0863  Street rods; license plates.

320.087  Intercity buses operated in interstate commerce; tax.

320.089  Members of National Guard and active United States Armed Forces reservists; former prisoners of war; survivors of Pearl Harbor; Purple Heart medal recipients; special license plates; fee.

320.0893  Motor vehicle license plates to recipients of the Medal of Honor.

320.0898  Emergency service special registration plates; fee; penalty.

320.091  Vehicles held in trust; license plates.

320.10  Exemptions.

320.105  Golf carts and utility vehicles; exemption.

320.13  Dealer and manufacturer license plates and alternative method of registration.

320.131  Temporary tags.

320.1325  Registration required for the temporarily employed.

320.133  Transporter license plates.

320.14  Fractional license tax.

320.15  Refund of license tax.

320.17  Classification of vehicles and mobile homes and assessment of license tax by department.

320.18  Withholding registration.

320.19  Tax lien; enforcement.

320.20  Disposition of license tax moneys.

320.23  Taxes declared compensatory.

320.26  Counterfeiting license plates, validation stickers, mobile home stickers, cab cards, trip permits, or special temporary operational permits prohibited; penalty.

320.261  Attaching registration license plate not assigned unlawful; penalty.

320.27  Motor vehicle dealers.

320.271  Used cars; removal of registration license plates.

320.273  Reinstatement of license of motor vehicle dealers.

320.28  Nonresident dealers in secondhand motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or mobile homes.

320.30  Penalty for violating s. 320.28.

320.31  Definitions covering ss. 320.28 and 320.30.

320.37  Registration not to apply to nonresidents.

320.371  Registration not to apply to certain manufacturers and others.

320.38  When nonresident exemption not allowed.

320.39  Reciprocal agreements for nonresident exemption.

320.405  International Registration Plan; inspection of records; hearings.

320.406  Estimate of amount of tax due and unpaid.

320.407  Suits for collection of unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest.

320.408  Departmental warrant for collection of unpaid taxes and penalties due from motor carriers.

320.409  Tax lien on property.

320.411  Officer's sale of property or franchise.

320.412  Department to furnish certificate of liens.

320.413  Discontinuance or transfer of business; change of address.

320.414  Restraining and enjoining violation.

320.415  Authority to inspect vehicles and seize property.

320.416  Cooperation of other state agencies in administration of law.

320.417  Foreclosure of liens.

320.51  Farm tractors and farm trailers exempt.

320.525  Port vehicles and equipment; definition; exemption.

320.535  Airport vehicles and equipment; definition; exemption.

320.57  Penalties for violations of this chapter.

320.571  Failure of person charged with misdemeanor under this chapter to comply with court-ordered directives; suspension of license.

320.58  Compliance examiners; powers, appointment.

320.60  Definitions for ss. 320.61-320.70.

320.605  Legislative intent.

320.61  Licenses required of motor vehicle manufacturers, distributors, importers, etc.

320.615  Agent for service of process.

320.62  Licenses; amount; disposition of proceeds.

320.63  Application for license; contents.

320.64  Denial, suspension, or revocation of license; grounds.

320.6403  Distributor agreements; obligations of manufacturer and importer.

320.6405  Franchise agreements; obligations of manufacturer and its agent.

320.641  Unfair cancellation of franchise agreements.

320.6415  Changes in plan or system of distribution.

320.642  Dealer licenses in areas previously served; procedure.

320.643  Transfer, assignment, or sale of franchise agreements.

320.644  Change of executive management control; objection by licensee; procedure.

320.645  Restriction upon ownership of dealership by licensee.

320.664  Reinstatement of license.

320.67  Inspection of books or other documents of licensee.

320.68  Revocation of license held by firms or corporations.

320.69  Rules.

320.695  Injunction.

320.696  Warranty responsibility.

320.697  Civil damages.

320.6975  Procedures and remedies applicable to distributor agreements.

320.698  Civil fines; procedure.

320.699  Administrative hearings and adjudications; procedure.

320.6992  Application.

320.70  Penalties for violation.

320.701  Applicability of ch. 84-69.

320.71  Nonresident motor vehicle, mobile home, or recreational vehicle dealer's license.

320.77  License required of mobile home dealers.

320.771  License required of recreational vehicle dealers.

320.781  Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Protection Trust Fund.

320.822  Definitions; ss. 320.822-320.862.

320.8225  Mobile home and recreational vehicle manufacturer's license.

320.823  Establishment of uniform mobile home standards.

320.8231  Establishment of uniform standards for recreational vehicle-type units and park trailers.

320.8232  Establishment of uniform standards for used recreational vehicles and repair and remodeling code for mobile homes.

320.824  Changes and modifications of standards.

320.8245  Limitation of alteration or modification to mobile homes or recreational vehicles.

320.8249  Mobile home installers license.

320.8255  Mobile home inspection.

320.827  Label; procedures for issuance; certification; requirements.

320.8285  Onsite inspection.

320.830  Reciprocity.

320.831  Penalties.

320.832  Legislative intent.

320.8325  Mobile homes and park trailers; tie-down requirements; minimum installation standards; injunctions; penalty.

320.833  Retention, destruction, and reproduction of records; electronic retention.

320.8335  Disclosure of manner used in determining length of mobile homes.

320.834  Purpose.

320.835  Mobile home and recreational vehicle warranties.

320.836  Presenting warranty claim.

320.837  Warranty service.

320.838  Civil action.

320.839  Cumulative remedies.

320.840  Liquidated damages.

320.861  Inspection of records; production of evidence; subpoena power.

320.862  Revocation of license held by firms or corporations.

320.865  Maintenance of records by the department.

320.90  Notification of consumer's rights.

320.95  Transactions by electronic or telephonic means.

320.01  Definitions, general.--As used in the Florida Statutes, except as otherwise provided, the term:

(1)  "Motor vehicle" means:

(a)  An automobile, motorcycle, truck, trailer, semitrailer, truck tractor and semitrailer combination, or any other vehicle operated on the roads of this state, used to transport persons or property, and propelled by power other than muscular power, but the term does not include traction engines, road rollers, such vehicles as run only upon a track, bicycles, or mopeds.

(b)  A recreational vehicle-type unit primarily designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use, which either has its own motive power or is mounted on or drawn by another vehicle. Recreational vehicle-type units, when traveling on the public roadways of this state, must comply with the length and width provisions of s. 316.515, as that section may hereafter be amended. As defined below, the basic entities are:

1.  The "travel trailer," which is a vehicular portable unit, mounted on wheels, of such a size or weight as not to require special highway movement permits when drawn by a motorized vehicle. It is primarily designed and constructed to provide temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use. It has a body width of no more than 81/2 feet and an overall body length of no more than 40 feet when factory-equipped for the road.

2.  The "camping trailer," which is a vehicular portable unit mounted on wheels and constructed with collapsible partial sidewalls which fold for towing by another vehicle and unfold at the campsite to provide temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use.

3.  The "truck camper," which is a truck equipped with a portable unit designed to be loaded onto, or affixed to, the bed or chassis of the truck and constructed to provide temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use.

4.  The "motor home," which is a vehicular unit which does not exceed 40 feet in length and the height and the width limitations provided in s. 316.515, is a self-propelled motor vehicle, and is primarily designed to provide temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use.

5.  The "private motor coach," which is a vehicular unit which does not exceed the length, width, and height limitations provided in s. 316.515(9), is built on a self-propelled bus type chassis having no fewer than three load-bearing axles, and is primarily designed to provide temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use.

6.  The "van conversion," which is a vehicular unit which does not exceed the length and width limitations provided in s. 316.515, is built on a self-propelled motor vehicle chassis, and is designed for recreation, camping, and travel use.

7.  The "park trailer," which is a transportable unit which has a body width not exceeding 14 feet and which is built on a single chassis and is designed to provide seasonal or temporary living quarters when connected to utilities necessary for operation of installed fixtures and appliances. The total area of the unit in a setup mode, when measured from the exterior surface of the exterior stud walls at the level of maximum dimensions, not including any bay window, does not exceed 400 square feet when constructed to ANSI A-119.5 standards, and 500 square feet when constructed to United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Standards. The length of a park trailer means the distance from the exterior of the front of the body (nearest to the drawbar and coupling mechanism) to the exterior of the rear of the body (at the opposite end of the body), including any protrusions.

8.  The "fifth-wheel trailer," which is a vehicular unit mounted on wheels, designed to provide temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use, of such size or weight as not to require a special highway movement permit, of gross trailer area not to exceed 400 square feet in the setup mode, and designed to be towed by a motorized vehicle that contains a towing mechanism that is mounted above or forward of the tow vehicle's rear axle.

(2)(a)  "Mobile home" means a structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is 8 body feet or more in width and which is built on an integral chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling when connected to the required utilities and includes the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein. For tax purposes, the length of a mobile home is the distance from the exterior of the wall nearest to the drawbar and coupling mechanism to the exterior of the wall at the opposite end of the home where such walls enclose living or other interior space. Such distance includes expandable rooms, but excludes bay windows, porches, drawbars, couplings, hitches, wall and roof extensions, or other attachments that do not enclose interior space. In the event that the mobile home owner has no proof of the length of the drawbar, coupling, or hitch, then the tax collector may in his or her discretion either inspect the home to determine the actual length or may assume 4 feet to be the length of the drawbar, coupling, or hitch.

(b)  "Manufactured home" means a mobile home fabricated on or after June 15, 1976, in an offsite manufacturing facility for installation or assembly at the building site, with each section bearing a seal certifying that it is built in compliance with the federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standard Act.

(3)  "Owner" means any person, firm, corporation, or association controlling any motor vehicle or mobile home by right of purchase, gift, lease, or otherwise.

(4)  "Trailer" means any vehicle without motive power designed to be coupled to or drawn by a motor vehicle and constructed so that no part of its weight or that of its load rests upon the towing vehicle.

(5)  "Semitrailer" means any vehicle without motive power designed to be coupled to or drawn by a motor vehicle and constructed so that some part of its weight and that of its load rests upon or is carried by another vehicle.

(6)  "Net weight" means the actual scale weight in pounds with complete catalog equipment.

(7)  "Gross weight" means the net weight of a motor vehicle in pounds plus the weight of the load carried by it.

(8)  "Cwt" means the weight per hundred pounds, or major fraction thereof, of a motor vehicle.

(9)  "Truck" means any motor vehicle with a net vehicle weight of 5,000 pounds or less and which is designed or used principally for the carriage of goods and includes a motor vehicle to which has been added a cabinet box, a platform, a rack, or other equipment for the purpose of carrying goods other than the personal effects of the passengers.

(10)  "Heavy truck" means any motor vehicle with a net vehicle weight of more than 5,000 pounds, which is registered on the basis of gross vehicle weight in accordance with s. 320.08(4), and which is designed or used for the carriage of goods or designed or equipped with a connecting device for the purpose of drawing a trailer that is attached or coupled thereto by means of such connecting device and includes any such motor vehicle to which has been added a cabinet box, a platform, a rack, or other equipment for the purpose of carrying goods other than the personal effects of the passengers.

(11)  "Truck tractor" means a motor vehicle which has four or more wheels and is designed and equipped with a fifth wheel for the primary purpose of drawing a semitrailer that is attached or coupled thereto by means of such fifth wheel and which has no provision for carrying loads independently.

(12)  "Gross vehicle weight" means:

(a)  For heavy trucks with a net weight of more than 5,000 pounds, but less than 8,000 pounds, the gross weight of the heavy truck. The gross vehicle weight is calculated by adding to the net weight of the heavy truck the weight of the load carried by it, which is the maximum gross weight as declared by the owner or person applying for registration.

(b)  For heavy trucks with a net weight of 8,000 pounds or more, the gross weight of the heavy truck, including the gross weight of any trailer coupled thereto. The gross vehicle weight is calculated by adding to the gross weight of the heavy truck the gross weight of the trailer, which is the maximum gross weight as declared by the owner or person applying for registration.

(c)  The gross weight of a truck tractor and semitrailer combination is calculated by adding to the net weight of the truck tractor the gross weight of the semitrailer, which is the maximum gross weight as declared by the owner or person applying for registration; such vehicles are together by means of a fifth-wheel arrangement whereby part of the weight of the semitrailer and load rests upon the truck tractor.

(13)  "Passenger," or any abbreviation thereof, does not include a driver.

(14)  "Private use" means the use of any vehicle which is not properly classified as a for-hire vehicle.

(15)(a)  "For-hire vehicle" means any motor vehicle, when used for transporting persons or goods for compensation; let or rented to another for consideration; offered for rent or hire as a means of transportation for compensation; advertised in a newspaper or generally held out as being for rent or hire; used in connection with a travel bureau; or offered or used to provide transportation for persons solicited through personal contact or advertised on a "share-expense" basis. When goods or passengers are transported for compensation in a motor vehicle outside a municipal corporation of this state, or when goods are transported in a motor vehicle not owned by the person owning the goods, such transportation is "for hire." The carriage of goods and other personal property in a motor vehicle by a corporation or association for its stockholders, shareholders, and members, cooperative or otherwise, is transportation "for hire."

(b)  The following are not included in the term "for-hire vehicle": a motor vehicle used for transporting school children to and from school under contract with school officials; a hearse or ambulance when operated by a licensed embalmer or mortician or his or her agent or employee in this state; a motor vehicle used in the transportation of agricultural or horticultural products or in transporting agricultural or horticultural supplies direct to growers or the consumers of such supplies or to associations of such growers or consumers; a motor vehicle temporarily used by a farmer for the transportation of agricultural or horticultural products from any farm or grove to a packinghouse or to a point of shipment by a transportation company; or a motor vehicle not exceeding 11/2 tons under contract with the Government of the United States to carry United States mail, provided such vehicle is not used for commercial purposes.

(16)  "Road" means the entire width between the boundary lines of every way or place of whatever nature when any part thereof is open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular traffic.

(17)  "Brake horsepower" means the actual unit of torque developed per unit of time at the output shaft of an engine, as measured by a dynamometer.

(18)  "Department" means the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

(19)  "Registration period" means a period of 12 months during which a motor vehicle or mobile home registration is valid.

(20)  "Marine boat trailer dealer" means any person engaged in:

(a)  The business of buying, selling, manufacturing, or dealing in trailers specifically designed to be drawn by another vehicle and used for the transportation on land of vessels, as defined in s. 327.02; or

(b)  The offering or displaying of such trailers for sale.

(21)  "Renewal period" means the period during which renewal of a motor vehicle registration or mobile home registration is required, as provided in s. 320.055.

(22)  "Golf cart" means a motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and that is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 miles per hour.

(23)  "Apportioned motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle which is required to be registered, or with respect to which an election has been made to register it, under the International Registration Plan.

(24)  "International Registration Plan" means a registration reciprocity agreement among states of the United States and provinces of Canada providing for payment of license fees on the basis of fleet miles operated in various jurisdictions.

(25)  "Apportionable vehicle" means any vehicle, except recreational vehicles, vehicles displaying restricted plates, city pickup and delivery vehicles, buses used in transportation of chartered parties, and government-owned vehicles, which is used or intended for use in two or more member jurisdictions that allocate or proportionally register vehicles and which is used for the transportation of persons for hire or is designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of property and:

(a)  Is a power unit having a gross vehicle weight in excess of 26,001 pounds;

(b)  Is a power unit having three or more axles, regardless of weight; or

(c)  Is used in combination, when the weight of such combination exceeds 26,001 pounds gross vehicle weight.

Vehicles, or combinations thereof, having a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or less and two-axle vehicles may be proportionally registered.

(26)  "Commercial motor vehicle" means any vehicle which is not owned or operated by a governmental entity, which uses special fuel or motor fuel on the public highways, and which has a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, or has three or more axles regardless of weight, or is used in combination when the weight of such combination exceeds 26,001 pounds gross vehicle weight.

(27)  "Motorcycle" means any motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, but excluding a tractor or a moped.

(28)  "Moped" means any vehicle with pedals to permit propulsion by human power, having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels, with a motor rated not in excess of 2 brake horsepower and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground, and with a power-drive system that functions directly or automatically without clutching or shifting gears by the operator after the drive system is engaged. If an internal combustion engine is used, the displacement may not exceed 50 cubic centimeters.

(29)  "Interstate" means vehicle movement between or through two or more states.

(30)  "Intrastate" means vehicle movement from one point within a state to another point within the same state.

(31)  "Person" means and includes natural persons, corporations, copartnerships, firms, companies, agencies, or associations, singular or plural.

(32)  "Registrant" means a person in whose name or names a vehicle is properly registered.

(33)  "Motor carrier" means any person owning, controlling, operating, or managing any motor vehicle used to transport persons or property over any public highway.

(34)  "Motorized disability access vehicle" means a vehicle designed primarily for handicapped individuals with normal upper body abilities and designed to be fueled by gasoline, travel on not more than three wheels, with a motor rated not in excess of 2 brake horsepower and not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground, and with a power-drive system that functions directly or automatically without clutching or shifting gears by the operator after the drive system is engaged. If an internal combustion engine is used, the displacement may not exceed 50 cubic centimeters.

(35)  "Resident" means a person who has his or her principal place of domicile in this state for a period of more than 6 consecutive months, who has registered to vote in this state, who has made a statement of domicile pursuant to s. 222.17, or who has filed for homestead tax exemption on property in this state.

(36)  "Nonresident" means a person who is not a resident.

(37)  "Electric vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is powered by an electric motor that draws current from rechargeable storage batteries, fuel cells, or other sources of electrical current.

(38)  "Disabled motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle as defined in subsection (1) which is not operable under its own motive power, excluding a nondisabled trailer or semitrailer, or any motor vehicle that is unsafe for operation upon the highways of this state.

(39)  "Replacement motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle as defined in subsection (1) under tow by a wrecker to the location of a disabled motor vehicle for the purpose of replacing the disabled motor vehicle, thereby permitting the transfer of the disabled motor vehicle's operator, passengers, and load to an operable motor vehicle.

(40)  "Wrecker" means any motor vehicle that is used to tow, carry, or otherwise transport motor vehicles and that is equipped for that purpose with a boom, winch, car carrier, or other similar equipment.

(41)  "Tow" means to pull or draw any motor vehicle with a power unit by means of a direct attachment, drawbar, or other connection or to carry a motor vehicle on a power unit designed to transport such vehicle from one location to another.

(42)  "Low-speed vehicle" means any four-wheeled electric vehicle whose top speed is greater than 20 miles per hour but not greater than 25 miles per hour, including neighborhood electric vehicles. Low-speed vehicles must comply with the safety standards in 49 C.F.R. s. 571.500 and s. 316.2122.

(43)  "Utility vehicle" means a motor vehicle designed and manufactured for general maintenance, security, and landscaping purposes, but the term does not include any vehicle designed or used primarily for the transportation of persons or property on a street or highway, or a golf cart, or an all-terrain vehicle as defined in s. 316.2074.

(44)  For purposes of this chapter, the term "agricultural products" means any food product; any agricultural, horticultural, or livestock product; any raw material used in plant food formulation; and any plant food used to produce food and fiber.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1006, 1011; ss. 2, 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 2, ch. 9156, 1923; s. 1, ch. 9157, 1923; ss. 1, 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1280, 1285, 1677; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 1, ch. 20743, 1941; s. 1, ch. 20911, 1941; s. 1, ch. 26923, 1951; s. 1, ch. 59-351; s. 1, ch. 65-61; s. 1, ch. 65-446; ss. 23, 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 70-215; s. 1, ch. 70-391; s. 93, ch. 71-377; s. 1, ch. 72-339; s. 1, ch. 73-284; s. 2, ch. 74-243; s. 3, ch. 75-66; s. 2, ch. 76-135; s. 4, ch. 76-286; s. 1, ch. 77-180; s. 1, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 78-221; s. 125, ch. 79-400; s. 12, ch. 81-151; s. 22, ch. 82-134; s. 3, ch. 83-188; s. 23, ch. 83-215; s. 1, ch. 83-318; s. 1, ch. 84-182; s. 7, ch. 84-260; s. 5, ch. 85-155; s. 43, ch. 85-180; s. 10, ch. 85-309; s. 4, ch. 85-343; s. 11, ch. 86-243; s. 11, ch. 87-161; s. 20, ch. 87-198; s. 5, ch. 87-225; s. 1, ch. 88-147; s. 66, ch. 89-282; s. 2, ch. 89-320; s. 1, ch. 90-163; s. 4, ch. 90-270; s. 5, ch. 92-148; s. 39, ch. 94-306; s. 910, ch. 95-148; s. 10, ch. 95-247; s. 10, ch. 95-333; s. 29, ch. 96-413; s. 3, ch. 97-58; s. 2, ch. 99-163; s. 15, ch. 99-248.

320.0104  Legislative intent with respect to implementation of chapter.--

(1)  It is the intent of the Legislature that the provisions of this chapter be implemented in such a manner that the convenience of the applicant is the first consideration.

(2)  Further, it is the intent of the Legislature that all services affecting motor carriers be consolidated in order to encourage interstate commerce and achieve maximum efficiency in registration, permitting, and safety programs administered by this state. In order to achieve this goal, Florida must join the cooperative effort that is being conducted on the national level by Congress, the United States Department of Transportation, and other groups to achieve uniformity among the jurisdictions and reduce the number of separate reports required by each jurisdiction of the motor carrier industry. Florida shall consolidate all requirements imposed on motor carriers operating in this state and shall actively negotiate reciprocal agreements and compacts with other jurisdictions to accomplish the intent of this chapter.

History.--s. 2, ch. 83-318; s. 44, ch. 85-180.

320.011  Administration and enforcement; rules.--The department shall administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter and has authority to adopt rules pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement them.

History.--s. 3, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 3, ch. 77-357; s. 14, ch. 80-217; s. 3, ch. 83-318; s. 62, ch. 98-200.

Note.--Former s. 318.031.

320.015  Taxation of mobile homes.--

(1)  A mobile home, as defined in s. 320.01(2), regardless of its actual use, shall be subject only to a license tax unless classified and taxed as real property. A mobile home is to be considered real property only when the owner of the mobile home is also the owner of the land on which the mobile home is situated and said mobile home is permanently affixed thereto. Any prefabricated or modular housing unit or portion thereof not manufactured upon an integral chassis or undercarriage for travel over the highways shall be taxed as real property even though transported over the highways to a site for erection or use.

(2)  Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), any mobile home classified by a seller or a lender as personal property at the time a security interest was granted therein to secure an obligation shall continue to be so classified for all purposes relating to the loan and security interest, at least as long as any part of such obligation, or any extension or renewal thereof, remains outstanding. Classification of a mobile home as personal property by a seller or a lender shall not prohibit the owner from having the mobile home classified and taxed as real property under subsection (1).

History.--Formerly s. 13, Art IX of the Constitution of 1885, as amended; converted to statutory law by s. 10, Art. XII of the Constitution as revised in 1968; s. 2, ch. 70-391; s. 2, ch. 72-339; s. 3, ch. 85-155; s. 6, ch. 87-225.

320.02  Registration required; application for registration; forms.--

(1)  Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, every owner or person in charge of a motor vehicle which is operated or driven on the roads of this state shall register the vehicle in this state. The owner or person in charge shall apply to the department or to its authorized agent for registration of each such vehicle on a form prescribed by the department. No registration is required for any motor vehicle which is not operated on the roads of this state during the registration period.

(2)(a)  The application for registration shall include the street address of the owner's permanent residence or the address of his or her permanent place of business and shall be accompanied by personal or business identification information which may include, but need not be limited to, a driver's license number, Florida identification card number, or federal employer identification number. If the owner does not have a permanent residence or permanent place of business or if the owner's permanent residence or permanent place of business cannot be identified by a street address, the application shall include:

1.  If the vehicle is registered to a business, the name and street address of the permanent residence of an owner of the business, an officer of the corporation, or an employee who is in a supervisory position.

2.  If the vehicle is registered to an individual, the name and street address of the permanent residence of a close relative or friend who is a resident of this state.

(b)  The department shall prescribe a form upon which motor vehicle owners may record odometer readings when registering their motor vehicles.

(3)  Prior to the registration in this state of any vehicle registered outside the state, the application must be accompanied by either a sworn affidavit from the seller and purchaser verifying that the vehicle identification number shown on the affidavit is identical to the vehicle identification number shown on the motor vehicle or a copy of the appropriate departmental form evidencing that a physical examination has been made of the motor vehicle by the owner and by a duly constituted police officer of any state, a licensed motor vehicle dealer, a license inspector as provided by s. 320.58, or a notary public commissioned by any state and that the vehicle identification number shown on the applicable form and the application is identical to the vehicle identification number shown on the motor vehicle. Vehicle identification number verification is not required for any new vehicle sold in this state by a licensed motor vehicle dealer, any mobile home, any trailer or semitrailer with a net weight of less than 2,000 pounds, or any travel trailer or camping trailer.

(4)  The owner of any motor vehicle registered in the state shall notify the department in writing of any change of address within 20 days of such change. The notification shall include the registration license plate number, the vehicle identification number (VIN) or title certificate number, year of vehicle make, and the owner's full name.

(5)(a)  Proof that personal injury protection benefits have been purchased when required under s. 627.733, that property damage liability coverage has been purchased as required under s. 324.022, and that combined bodily liability insurance and property damage liability insurance have been purchased when required under s. 627.7415 shall be provided in the manner prescribed by law by the applicant at the time of application for registration of any motor vehicle owned as defined in s. 627.732. The issuing agent shall refuse to issue registration if such proof of purchase is not provided. Insurers shall furnish uniform proof-of-purchase cards in a form prescribed by the department and shall include the name of the insured's insurance company, the coverage identification number, the make, year, and vehicle identification number of the vehicle insured. The card shall contain a statement notifying the applicant of the penalty specified in s. 316.646(4). The card or insurance policy, insurance policy binder, or certificate of insurance or a photocopy of any of these; an affidavit containing the name of the insured's insurance company, the insured's policy number, and the make and year of the vehicle insured; or such other proof as may be prescribed by the department shall constitute sufficient proof of purchase. If an affidavit is provided as proof, it shall be in substantially the following form:


Under penalty of perjury, I  (Name of insured)  do hereby certify that I have  (Personal Injury Protection, Property Damage Liability, and, when required, Bodily Injury Liability)  Insurance currently in effect with  (Name of insurance company)  under  (policy number)  covering  (make, year, and vehicle identification number of vehicle) .  (Signature of Insured) 


Such affidavit shall include the following warning:


WARNING: GIVING FALSE INFORMATION IN ORDER TO OBTAIN A VEHICLE REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE UNDER FLORIDA LAW. ANYONE GIVING FALSE INFORMATION ON THIS AFFIDAVIT IS SUBJECT TO PROSECUTION.


When an application is made through a licensed motor vehicle dealer as required in s. 319.23, the original or a photostatic copy of such card, insurance policy, insurance policy binder, or certificate of insurance or the original affidavit from the insured shall be forwarded by the dealer to the tax collector of the county or the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for processing. By executing the aforesaid affidavit, no licensed motor vehicle dealer will be liable in damages for any inadequacy, insufficiency, or falsification of any statement contained therein. A card shall also indicate the existence of any bodily injury liability insurance voluntarily purchased.

(b)  When an operator who owns a motor vehicle is subject to the financial responsibility requirements of chapter 324, including s. 324.022, such operator shall provide proof of compliance with such financial responsibility requirements at the time of registration of any such motor vehicle by one of the methods constituting sufficient proof of purchase under paragraph (a). The issuing agent shall refuse to register a motor vehicle if such proof of purchase is not provided or if one of the other methods of proving financial responsibility as set forth in s. 324.031 is not met.

(c)  For purposes of providing proof of purchase of required insurance coverage under this subsection, the Department of Insurance shall require that uniform proof-of-purchase cards specified by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles be furnished by insurers writing motor vehicle liability insurance in this state. Any person altering or counterfeiting such a card or making a false affidavit in order to furnish false proof or to knowingly permit another person to furnish false proof is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(d)  The verifying of proof of personal injury protection insurance, proof of combined bodily liability insurance and property damage liability insurance, or proof of financial responsibility insurance and the issuance or failure to issue the motor vehicle registration under the provisions of this chapter may not be construed in any court as a warranty of the reliability or accuracy of the evidence of such proof. Neither the department nor any tax collector is liable in damages for any inadequacy, insufficiency, falsification, or unauthorized modification of any item of the proof of personal injury protection insurance, proof of combined bodily liability insurance and property damage liability insurance, or proof of financial responsibility insurance either prior to, during, or subsequent to the verification of the proof. The issuance of a motor vehicle registration does not constitute prima facie evidence or a presumption of insurance coverage.

(e)  The department shall suspend the registration, issued under this chapter or s. 207.004(1), of a motor carrier who operates a commercial motor vehicle or permits it to be operated in this state during the registration period without having in full force and effect liability insurance, a surety bond, or a valid self-insurance certificate that complies with the provisions of this section. The liability insurance policy or surety bond may not be canceled on less than 30 days' written notice by the insurer to the department, such 30 days' notice to commence from the date notice is received by the department.

(6)  Any person who registers his or her motor vehicle by means of false or fraudulent representations made in any application for registration is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. The department may demand the return of, and may cancel, any license plate issued based on false or fraudulent representations.

(7)  Every owner or person in charge of a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or more shall present proof of filing or proof of payment, in such form as may be prescribed by the United States Secretary of the Treasury, of the use tax imposed by s. 4481 of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended, upon application for registration. Proof of payment or proof of filing will be made in accordance with the gross vehicle weight tax schedule established by s. 4481 of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended. An owner or person in charge of such a motor vehicle who has been exempted from the use tax by the Secretary of the Treasury shall present proof of such exemption in lieu of proof of payment. When an application is made through a licensed motor vehicle dealer as required in s. 319.23, the original or photostatic copy of such prescribed proof shall be forwarded by the dealer to the tax collector or the department for processing. The issuing agent shall refuse to issue a registration if such prescribed proof is not presented. Any person making a false affidavit in order to furnish false proof or to knowingly permit another person to furnish such false proof is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(8)  The application form for motor vehicle registration shall include language permitting a voluntary contribution of $1 per applicant, which contribution shall be paid into the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund. The application form shall also include language providing for a voluntary contribution of $2, which shall be paid into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund and used to purchase child safety seats.

(9)  Before a motor vehicle which has not been manufactured in accordance with the federal Clean Air Act and the federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act can be sold to a consumer and titled and registered in this state, the motor vehicle must be certified by the United States Customs Service or the United States Department of Transportation and the United States Environmental Protection Agency to be in compliance with these federal standards. A vehicle which is registered pursuant to this subsection shall not be titled as a new motor vehicle.

(10)  An owner or person in charge of a motor vehicle subject to inspection pursuant to the Clean Outdoor Air Law shall provide proof of inspection or waiver at the time of registration of any such motor vehicle. The issuing agent shall refuse to register a motor vehicle if such proof of inspection or waiver is not provided.

(11)  The department shall audit affidavits utilized as proof of insurance under subsection (5) to verify that the affidavits are not false. The department shall take action as appropriate with respect to false affidavits.

(12)  The department is authorized to withhold registration or reregistration of any motor vehicle if the owner, or one of the coowners of the vehicle, has a driver's license which is under suspension for the failure to remit payment of any fines levied in this state pursuant to chapter 318 or chapter 322.

(13)  The application form for motor vehicle registration shall include language permitting a voluntary contribution of $5 per applicant, which contribution shall be transferred into the Election Campaign Financing Trust Fund. A statement providing an explanation of the purpose of the trust fund shall also be included.

¹(14)  Any person who, without the authorization of the department, disables, removes, tampers with, damages, or unlocks an immobilization device placed on a vehicle pursuant to this section, or who attempts to do so, is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(15)  The application form for motor vehicle registration must include language permitting a voluntary contribution of $1 per applicant, which contribution must be transferred into the Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund created in s. 427.0159 and must be expended as provided in that section.

(16)  The application form for motor vehicle registration shall include language permitting the voluntary contribution of $1 per applicant, to be quarterly distributed by the department to Prevent Blindness Florida, a not-for-profit organization, to prevent blindness and preserve the sight of the residents of this state. A statement providing an explanation of the purpose of the funds shall be included with the application form. Prior to the department distributing the funds collected pursuant to this subsection, Prevent Blindness Florida must submit a report to the department that identifies how such funds were used during the preceding year.

(17)  The application form for motor vehicle registration and renewal of registration must include language permitting a voluntary contribution to the Florida Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Inc., which contribution must be transferred by the department to the Florida Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Inc., on a monthly basis.

History.--s. 2, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1007; s. 3, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 2, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1281; s. 1, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 1, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 1, ch. 26909, 1951; s. 1, ch. 28186, 1953; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 71-42; s. 2, ch. 73-284; s. 1, ch. 75-57; s. 4, ch. 75-66; s. 4, ch. 77-357; s. 4, ch. 77-468; s. 1, ch. 78-186; s. 3, ch. 78-225; s. 2, ch. 78-353; s. 4, ch. 78-363; s. 4, ch. 78-412; s. 3, ch. 79-32; s. 2, ch. 80-388; s. 1, ch. 83-200; s. 6, ch. 83-298; s. 4, ch. 83-318; s. 1, ch. 83-320; ss. 2, 3, ch. 84-155; s. 3, ch. 84-194; s. 45, ch. 85-180; s. 3, ch. 86-182; s. 12, ch. 86-243; s. 21, ch. 87-198; s. 19, ch. 88-129; s. 4, ch. 88-253; ss. 4, 5, ch. 88-370; s. 1, ch. 89-212; s. 26, ch. 90-119; s. 1, ch. 90-329; s. 27, ch. 91-107; s. 43, ch. 94-306; s. 911, ch. 95-148; s. 14, ch. 95-333; s. 19, ch. 97-300; s. 1, ch. 99-233; ss. 16, 259, ch. 99-248; ss. 48, 49, ch. 2000-171.

¹Note.--

A.  Section 48, ch. 2000-171, amended subsection (14) "[i]n order to implement Specific Appropriations 2128-2132 of the 2000-2001 General Appropriations Act."

B.  Section 49, ch. 2000-171, provides that "[t]he amendment of subsection (14) of section 320.02, Florida Statutes, by this act shall expire on July 1, 2001, and the text of said subsection shall revert to that in existence on June 30, 2000, except that any amendments to such text enacted other than by this act shall be preserved and continue to operate to the extent that such amendments are not dependent upon the portions of said text which expire pursuant to the provisions of this act. The Division of Statutory Revision of the Office of Legislative Services shall include in an appropriate reviser's bill any amendments to said subsection which are necessary to give effect to the legislative intent expressed in this section." Effective July 1, 2001, subsection (14), as amended by s. 49, ch. 2000-171, will read:

(14)(a)  The license inspectors appointed by the department pursuant to s. 320.58 are empowered to issue a notice of violation on a form prescribed by the department to unattended motor vehicles that reasonably appear to such examiners to be required to be registered under this chapter and that are not so registered. The notice of violation shall include a summary of the provisions of this section and shall contain such other information as the department in its discretion shall determine.

(b)  The owner or person in charge of any vehicle that is issued a notice of violation pursuant to this section shall, within 30 days of the date of issuance shown on the notice, register the vehicle as required by this chapter or provide proof satisfactory to the department that the vehicle is exempt from such registration. If the vehicle is not registered or the proof is not provided on or after the 31st day following the date of issuance shown on the notice, the department is authorized to immobilize the vehicle by use of an immobilization device. Upon proof of registration of the vehicle or proof satisfactory to the department that the vehicle is exempt from such registration, the department shall remove the immobilization device. The department shall immediately remove, at no charge, any immobilization device that has been placed on any vehicle in error.

(c)  The license inspectors appointed by the department pursuant to s. 320.58 are empowered to enter upon both publicly owned and privately owned property in order to carry out the provisions of this section.

(d)  Any person who, without the authorization of the department, disables, removes, tampers with, damages, or unlocks an immobilization device placed on a vehicle pursuant to this section, or who attempts to do so, is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

320.023  Requests to establish voluntary checkoff on motor vehicle registration application.--

(1)  An organization that seeks authorization to establish a voluntary contribution on a motor vehicle registration application must submit to the department:

(a)  A request for the particular voluntary contribution being sought, describing the proposed voluntary contribution in general terms.

(b)  An application fee, not to exceed $10,000 to defray the department's cost for reviewing the application and developing the voluntary contribution checkoff, if authorized. State funds may not be used to pay the application fee.

(c)  A marketing strategy outlining short-term and long-term marketing plans for the requested voluntary contribution and a financial analysis outlining the anticipated revenues and the planned expenditures of the revenues to be derived from the voluntary contribution.

The information required under this subsection must be submitted to the department at least 90 days before the convening of the next regular session of the Legislature.

(2)  If the voluntary contribution is not approved by the Legislature, the application fee must be refunded to the requesting organization.

(3)  The department must include any voluntary contributions approved by the Legislature on the motor vehicle application form when the form is reprinted by the agency.

(4)(a)  The department must discontinue the voluntary contribution if:

1.  Less than $25,000 has been contributed by the end of the 5th year.

2.  Less than $25,000 is contributed during any subsequent 5-year period.

(b)  The department is authorized to discontinue the voluntary contribution and distribution of associated proceeds if the organization no longer exists, if the organization has stopped providing services that are authorized to be funded from the voluntary contributions, or pursuant to an organizational recipient's request.

(5)  A voluntary contribution collected and distributed under this chapter, or any interest earned from those contributions, may not be used for commercial or for-profit activities nor for general or administrative expenses, except as authorized by law, or to pay the cost of the audit or report required by law.

(a)  All organizations that receive annual use fee proceeds from the department are responsible for ensuring that proceeds are used in accordance with law.

(b)  All organizational recipients of any voluntary contributions in excess of $15,000, not otherwise subject to annual audit by the Office of the Auditor General, shall submit an annual audit of the expenditures of these contributions and interest earned from these contributions, to determine if expenditures are being made in accordance with the specifications outlined by law. The audit shall be prepared by a certified public accountant licensed under chapter 473 at that organizational recipient's expense. The notes to the financial statements should state whether expenditures were made in accordance with law.

(c)  In lieu of an annual audit, any organization receiving less than $15,000 in voluntary contributions directly from the department may annually report, under penalties of perjury, that such proceeds were used in compliance with law. The attestation shall be made annually in a form and format determined by the department.

(d)  Any voluntary contributions authorized by law shall only be distributed to an organization under an appropriation by the Legislature.

(e)  The annual audit or report shall be submitted to the department for review within 180 days after the end of the organization's fiscal year.

(6)  Within 90 days after receiving an organization's audit or report, the department shall determine which recipients have not complied with subsection (5). If the department determines that an organization has not complied or has failed to use the revenues in accordance with law, the department must discontinue the distribution of the revenues to the organization until the department determines that the organization has complied. If an organization fails to comply within 12 months after the voluntary contributions are withheld by the department, the proceeds shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund to offset department costs.

(7)  The Auditor General and the department have the authority to examine all records pertaining to the use of funds from the voluntary contributions authorized.

History.--s. 4, ch. 98-414; s. 17, ch. 99-248.

320.025  Registration certificate and license plate issued under fictitious name; application.--

(1)  A confidential registration certificate and registration license plate shall be issued under a fictitious name only for a motor vehicle owned or operated by a law enforcement agency of state, county, municipal, or federal government, the Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, or any state public defender's office. The requesting agency shall file a written application with the department on forms furnished by the department, which includes a statement that the license plate will be used for the Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, or law enforcement or any state public defender's office activities requiring concealment of publicly leased or owned motor vehicles and a statement of the position classifications of the individuals who are authorized to use the license plate. The department may modify its records to reflect the fictitious identity of the owner or lessee until such time as the license plate and registration certificate are surrendered to it.

(2)  Except as provided in subsection (1), any motor vehicle owned or exclusively operated by the state or any county, municipality, or other governmental entity must at all times display a license plate of the type prescribed in s. 320.0655.

(3)  This section constitutes an exception to other statutes relating to falsification of public records, false swearing, and similar matters. All records relating to the registration application of the Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, a law enforcement agency, or any state public defender's office, and records necessary to carry out the intended purpose of this section, are exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1), and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution as long as the information is retained by the department. This section does not prohibit other personations, fabrications, or creations of false identifications by the Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, or law enforcement or public defender's officers in the official performance of covert operations.

History.--s. 1, ch. 73-37; ss. 2, 3, ch. 80-306; s. 5, ch. 83-318; s. 1, ch. 85-110; s. 1, ch. 89-48; s. 2, ch. 91-114; s. 1, ch. 94-308; s. 2, ch. 96-331; s. 152, ch. 96-406.

320.03  Registration; duties of tax collectors; International Registration Plan.--

(1)  The tax collectors in the several counties of the state, as authorized agents of the department, shall issue registration certificates, registration license plates, validation stickers, and mobile home stickers to applicants, subject to the requirements of law, in accordance with rules of the department. Any person, firm, or corporation representing itself, through advertising or naming of the business, to be an authorized agent of the department shall be deemed guilty of an unfair and deceptive trade practice as defined in part II of chapter 501. No such person, firm, or corporation shall use either the state or county name as a part of their business name when such use can reasonably be interpreted as an official state or county office.

(2)  The department may require each tax collector to give a bond, payable to the department, conditioned that the tax collector faithfully and truly perform the duties imposed upon him or her according to the requirements of law and the rules and regulations of the department and that the tax collector pay over and account for all validation stickers, records, and other property and money that comes into his or her possession or control by reason of such service. The amount of the bond is to be determined by the department based on an amount not more than 10 percent above the average of the daily deposits of each tax collector.

(3)  Each tax collector shall keep a full and complete record and account of all validation stickers, mobile home stickers, or other properties received by him or her from the department, or from any other source, and shall make prompt remittance of moneys collected by him or her at such times and in such manner as prescribed by law.

(4)(a)  Each tax collector or license tag agent who has on-line computer access to the department data center or other reasonable access thereto shall, except when the department has issued a registration renewal notice, upon receipt of an application for the registration of any motor vehicle, determine from the driver file of the applicant whether the applicant's driver's license has been canceled, suspended, or revoked and, if so, whether the applicant has surrendered his or her license to the department as required by s. 322.251. If the applicant has not surrendered his or her license in accordance with the provisions of that section, the tax collector shall refuse to register the vehicle until such time as the applicant surrenders his or her driver's license to the department.

(b)  The Florida Real Time Vehicle Information System shall be installed in every tax collector's and license tag agent's office in accordance with a schedule established by the department in consultation with the tax collectors and contingent upon funds being made available for the system by the state.

(5)  A fee of 50 cents shall be charged, in addition to the fees required under s. 320.08, on every license registration sold to cover the costs of the Florida Real Time Vehicle Information System. The fees collected hereunder shall be distributed as follows: 25 cents into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund shall be used to fund the Florida Real Time Vehicle Information System and may be used to fund the general operations of the department and 25 cents into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund to be used exclusively to fund the Florida Real Time Vehicle Information System. The only use of this latter portion of the fee shall be to fund the Florida Real Time Vehicle Information System equipment, software, and networks used in the offices of the county tax collectors as agents of the department and the ancillary technology necessary to integrate the Florida Real Time Vehicle Information System with other tax collection systems. The department shall administer this program upon consultation with the Florida Tax Collectors, Inc., to ensure that each county tax collector's office will be technologically equipped and functional for the operation of the Florida Real Time Vehicle Information System. Any of the designated revenue collected to support functions of the county tax collectors and not used in a given year will remain exclusively in the trust fund as a carryover to the following year.

(6)  A nonrefundable fee of $1 shall be charged on every license registration sold, transferred, or replaced. This fee must be deposited in the Air Pollution Control Trust Fund established in the Department of Environmental Protection and used only for purposes of air pollution control pursuant to chapter 403, except that, if any county has an approved local air pollution control program as provided in s. 403.182, 50 cents of the fee from each license registration sold in the county must be returned to that county for deposit into a local air pollution control program trust fund, which must be established by the county and used only for air pollution control programs relating to the control of emissions from mobile sources and toxic and odor emissions, air quality monitoring, and facility inspections pursuant to chapter 403 or any similar local ordinance. Any county that has a Department of Environmental Protection approved local air pollution control program shall receive 75 cents of the fee from each license registration sold, transferred, or replaced in the county. However, if the approved local air pollution control program trust fund has an unencumbered balance at the end of the preceding fiscal year of more than 50 percent of the preceding year's allocation from the fees authorized in this subsection, the department may, after consultation with the approved local air pollution control program, retain any amount above 50 cents of the fees from each license registration sold, transferred, or replaced in the county for the following fiscal year. The Department of Environmental Protection is authorized to adopt rules necessary to implement this subsection.

(7)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall register apportioned motor vehicles under the provisions of the International Registration Plan. The department may adopt rules to implement and enforce the provisions of the plan.

(8)  If the applicant's name appears on the list referred to in s. 316.1001(4) or s. 316.1967(6), a license plate or revalidation sticker may not be issued until that person's name no longer appears on the list or until the person presents a receipt from the clerk showing that the fines outstanding have been paid. The tax collector and the clerk of the court are each entitled to receive monthly, as costs for implementing and administering this subsection, 10 percent of the civil penalties and fines recovered from such persons. If the tax collector has private tag agents, such tag agents are entitled to receive a pro rata share of the amount paid to the tax collector, based upon the percentage of license plates and revalidation stickers issued by the tag agent compared to the total issued within the county. The authority of any private agent to issue license plates shall be revoked, after notice and a hearing as provided in chapter 120, if he or she issues any license plate or revalidation sticker contrary to the provisions of this subsection. This section applies only to the annual renewal in the owner's birth month of a motor vehicle registration and does not apply to the transfer of a registration of a motor vehicle sold by a motor vehicle dealer licensed under this chapter, except for the transfer of registrations which is inclusive of the annual renewals. This section does not affect the issuance of the title to a motor vehicle, notwithstanding s. 319.23(7)(b).

(9)  A nonrefundable fee of $1.50 shall be charged on the initial and renewal registration of each automobile for private use, and on the initial and renewal registration of each truck having a net weight of 5,000 pounds or less. Such fees shall be deposited in the Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund created in part I of chapter 427 and shall be used as provided therein, except that priority shall be given to the transportation needs of those who, because of age or physical and mental disability, are unable to transport themselves and are dependent upon others to obtain access to health care, employment, education, shopping, or other life-sustaining activities.

History.--s. 2, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1007; s. 3, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 2, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1281; s. 1, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 1, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 2, ch. 78-37; s. 1, ch. 78-207; s. 48, ch. 80-274; s. 1, ch. 81-181; s. 1, ch. 82-129; s. 1, ch. 83-150; s. 6, ch. 83-318; s. 8, ch. 84-260; s. 46, ch. 85-180; s. 3, ch. 85-325; s. 1, ch. 89-43; s. 11, ch. 89-376; s. 2, ch. 90-48; s. 26, ch. 90-330; s. 58, ch. 90-331; s. 3, ch. 91-180; s. 23, ch. 92-132; s. 78, ch. 93-120; s. 20, ch. 93-164; s. 1, ch. 94-142; s. 44, ch. 94-306; s. 139, ch. 94-356; s. 912, ch. 95-148; s. 33, ch. 98-34; s. 97, ch. 99-13; ss. 18, 260, ch. 99-248.

320.031  Mailing of registration certificates, license plates, and validation stickers.--

(1)  The department and the tax collectors of the several counties of the state may at the request of the applicant use United States mail service to deliver registration certificates and renewals thereof, license plates, mobile home stickers, and validation stickers to applicants.

(2)  A mail service charge may be collected for each registration certificate, license plate, mobile home sticker, and validation sticker mailed by the department or any tax collector. Each registration certificate, license plate, mobile home sticker, and validation sticker shall be mailed by first-class mail unless otherwise requested by the applicant. The amount of the mail service charge shall be the actual postage required, rounded to the nearest 5 cents, plus a 25-cent handling charge. The mail service charge is in addition to the service charge provided by s. 320.04. All charges collected by the department under this section shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.

History.--ss. 1, 2, ch. 29956, 1955; s. 1, ch. 59-190; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 5, ch. 75-66; s. 2, ch. 78-207; s. 7, ch. 83-318; s. 30, ch. 96-413; s. 261, ch. 99-248; s. 25, ch. 2000-313.

320.04  Registration service charge.--

(1)(a)  There shall be a service charge of $2.50 for each application which is handled in connection with original issuance, duplicate issuance, or transfer of any license plate, mobile home sticker, or validation sticker or with transfer or duplicate issuance of any registration certificate. There may also be a service charge of up to $1 for the issuance of each license plate validation sticker, vessel decal, and mobile home sticker issued from an automated vending facility or printer dispenser machine which shall be payable to and retained by the department to provide for automated vending facilities or printer dispenser machines used to dispense such stickers and decals by each tax collector's or license tag agent's employee.

(b)  In addition to the fees provided in paragraph (a), any tax collector may impose an additional service charge of not more than 50 cents on any transaction specified in paragraph (a) or on any transaction specified in s. 319.32(2)(a) or s. 328.48 when such transaction occurs at any tax collector's branch office.

(c)  The service charges prescribed by paragraphs (a) and (b) shall be collected from the applicant as compensation for all services rendered in connection with the handling of the application. Such fees shall be retained by the department or by the tax collector, as the case may be, as other fees accruing to those offices.

(2)  The service charges shall be collected by the department on all applications handled directly from its office; and the proceeds thereof, together with any fees returned to it by the tax collector, shall be paid into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. No tax collector, deputy tax collector, or employee of the state or any county shall charge, collect, or receive any fee or compensation for services performed as notary public in connection with or incidental to the issuance of license plates or titles. The provisions of this subsection and of s. 116.38(2) prohibiting the charging, collecting, or receiving of notary public fees do not apply to any privately owned license plate agency appointed by the county manager of a charter county which has an appointed tax collector.

(3)  The department may absorb all or any portion of any interchange, assessment, charge back, authorization or settlement or equivalent fees charged by financial institutions relating to a credit or debit card transaction. The department may request approval to establish additional budget authority to pay additional fees related to credit and debit card transactions pursuant to s. 216.177.

History.--s. 2, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1007; s. 3, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 2, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1281; s. 1, ch. 15625, 1931; ss. 1, 5, ch. 16085, 1933; ss. 1, 2, ch. 23149, 1945; s. 10, ch. 26484, 1951; s. 43, ch. 26869, 1951; s. 1, ch. 61-403; s. 1, ch. 63-143; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 72-79; s. 1, ch. 74-338; s. 6, ch. 75-66; s. 3, ch. 78-207; s. 47, ch. 80-274; s. 1, ch. 82-50; s. 23, ch. 82-134; s. 8, ch. 83-318; s. 2, ch. 85-324; s. 54, ch. 90-132; s. 8, ch. 98-324; s. 19, ch. 99-248; s. 4, ch. 99-289; s. 44, ch. 2000-152; s. 26, ch. 2000-313.

320.05  Records of the department; inspection procedure; lists and searches; fees.--

(1)  Except as provided in s. 119.07(3), the department may release records as provided in this section.

(2)  Upon receipt of an application for the registration of a motor vehicle or mobile home, as herein provided for, the department shall register the motor vehicle or mobile home under the distinctive number assigned to such motor vehicle or mobile home by the department. Electronic registration records shall be open to the inspection of the public during business hours. Information on a motor vehicle registration may not be made available to a person unless the person requesting the information furnishes positive proof of identification. The agency that furnishes a motor vehicle registration record shall record the name and address of any person other than a representative of a law enforcement agency who requests and receives information from a motor vehicle registration record and shall also record the name and address of the person who is the subject of the inquiry or other information identifying the entity about which information is requested. A record of each such inquiry must be maintained for a period of 6 months from the date upon which the information was released to the inquirer. Nothing in this section shall prohibit any financial institution, insurance company, motor vehicle dealer, licensee under chapter 493, attorney, or other agency which the department determines has the right to know from obtaining, for professional or business use only, information in such records from the department through any means of telecommunication pursuant to a code developed by the department providing all fees specified in subsection (3) have been paid. The department shall disclose records or information to the child support enforcement agency to assist in the location of individuals who owe or potentially owe child support or to whom such an obligation is owed pursuant to Title IV-D of the Social Security Act.

(3)(a)  The department is authorized, upon application of any person and payment of the proper fees, to prepare and furnish lists containing motor vehicle or vessel information in such form as the department may authorize, to search the records of the department and make reports thereof, and to make photographic copies of the department records and attestations thereof.

(b)  Fees therefor shall be charged and collected as follows:

1.  For providing lists of motor vehicle or vessel records for the entire state, or any part or parts thereof, divided according to counties, a sum computed at a rate of not less than 1 cent nor more than 5 cents per item.

2.  For providing noncertified photographic copies of motor vehicle or vessel documents, $1 per page.

3.  For providing noncertified photographic copies of micrographic records, $1 per page.

4.  For providing certified copies of motor vehicle or vessel records, $3 per record.

5.  For providing noncertified computer-generated printouts of motor vehicle or vessel records, 50 cents per record.

6.  For providing certified computer-generated printouts of motor vehicle or vessel records, $3 per record.

7.  For providing electronic access to motor vehicle, vessel, and mobile home registration data requested by tag, vehicle identification number, title number, or decal number, 50 cents per item.

8.  For providing electronic access to driver's license status report by name, sex, and date of birth or by driver license number, 50 cents per item.

9.  For providing lists of licensed mobile home dealers and manufacturers and recreational vehicle dealers and manufacturers, $15 per list.

10.  For providing lists of licensed motor vehicle dealers, $25 per list.

11.  For each copy of a videotape record, $15 per tape.

12.  For each copy of the Division of Motor Vehicles Procedures Manual, $25.

(c)  Fees collected pursuant to paragraph (b) shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.

(d)  The department shall furnish such information without charge to any court or governmental entity.

(e)  When motor vehicle, vessel, or mobile home registration data is provided by electronic access through a tax collector's office, a fee for the electronic access is not required to be assessed. However, at the tax collector's discretion, a fee equal to or less than the fee charged by the department for such information may be assessed by the tax collector for the electronic access. Notwithstanding paragraph (c), any funds collected by the tax collector as a result of providing such access shall be retained by the tax collector.

(4)  The department is authorized to reproduce such documents, records, and reports as required to meet the requirements of the law and the needs of the public, either by photographing, microphotographing, or reproducing on film the document, record, or report, or by using an electronic digitizing process capable of reproducing a true and correct image of the original source document. The photographs, microphotographs, or electronic digitized copy of any records made in compliance with the provisions of this section shall have the same force and effect as the originals thereof and shall be treated as originals for the purpose of their admissibility into evidence. Duly certified or authenticated reproductions of such photographs, microphotographs, or electronically digitized records shall be admitted into evidence equally with the original photographs, microphotographs, or electronically digitized records.

History.--s. 3, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1008; CGL 1282; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 69-178; s. 5, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 82-112; s. 12, ch. 83-218; s. 9, ch. 83-318; s. 2, ch. 89-48; s. 46, ch. 94-306; s. 15, ch. 95-333; s. 153, ch. 96-406; s. 17, ch. 96-413; s. 41, ch. 97-170; s. 4, ch. 97-185; s. 27, ch. 2000-313.

320.055  Registration periods; renewal periods.--The following registration periods and renewal periods are established:

(1)  For a motor vehicle subject to registration under s. 320.08(1), (2), (3), (5)(b), (c), (d), or (f), (6)(a), (7), (8), (9), or (10) and owned by a natural person, the registration period begins the first day of the birth month of the owner and ends the last day of the month immediately preceding the owner's birth month in the succeeding year. If such vehicle is registered in the name of more than one person, the birth month of the person whose name first appears on the registration shall be used to determine the registration period. For a vehicle subject to this registration period, the renewal period is the 30-day period ending at midnight on the vehicle owner's date of birth.

(2)  For a vehicle subject to registration under s. 320.08(11), the registration period begins January 1 and ends December 31. For a vehicle subject to this registration period, the renewal period is the 31-day period prior to expiration.

(3)  For a vehicle subject to registration under s. 320.08(12), the registration period runs concurrently with the licensing period. For a vehicle subject to this registration period, the renewal period is the first month of the licensing period.

(4)  For a vehicle subject to registration under s. 320.08(13), for vehicles subject to registration under s. 320.08(6)(a) that are short-term rental vehicles, and for any vehicle for which a registration period is not otherwise specified, the registration period begins June 1 and ends May 31. For a vehicle subject to this registration period, the renewal period is the 30-day period beginning June 1.

(5)  For a vehicle subject to registration under s. 320.08(4), (5)(a)1., (e), (6)(b), or (14), the registration period shall be a period of 12 months beginning in a month designated by the department and ending on the last day of the 12th month. For a vehicle subject to this registration period, the renewal period is the last month of the registration period. The registration period may be shortened or extended at the discretion of the department, on receipt of the appropriate prorated fees, in order to evenly distribute such registrations on a monthly basis.

(6)  For those vehicles subject to registration under s. 320.08(6)(a) which are not short-term rental vehicles, the department shall develop and implement a registration renewal system that, where practicable, evenly distributes the registration renewal period throughout the year. For a vehicle subject to this registration period, the renewal period is the first month of the assigned registration period.

(7)  For those vehicles subject to registration under s. 320.0657, the department shall implement a system that distributes the registration renewal process throughout the year.

History.--s. 10, ch. 83-318; s. 4, ch. 84-155; s. 9, ch. 84-260; s. 13, ch. 86-243; s. 22, ch. 87-198; s. 1, ch. 94-330; s. 31, ch. 96-413; s. 98, ch. 99-13; ss. 20, 262, ch. 99-248; s. 34, ch. 2000-266.

320.06  Registration certificates, license plates, and validation stickers generally.--

(1)(a)  Upon the receipt of an initial application for registration and payment of the appropriate license tax and other fees required by law, the department shall assign to the motor vehicle a registration license number consisting of letters and numerals or numerals and issue to the owner or lessee a certificate of registration and one registration license plate, unless two plates are required for display by s. 320.0706, for each vehicle so registered.

(b)  Registration license plates bearing a graphic symbol and the alphanumeric system of identification shall be issued for a 5-year period. At the end of said 5-year period, upon renewal, the plate shall be replaced. The fee for such replacement shall be $10, $2 of which shall be paid each year before the plate is replaced, to be credited towards the next $10 replacement fee. The fees shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. A credit or refund shall not be given for any prior years' payments of such prorated replacement fee when the plate is replaced or surrendered before the end of the 5-year period. With each license plate, there shall be issued a validation sticker showing the owner's birth month or the appropriate renewal period if the owner is not a natural person. This validation sticker shall be placed on the upper left corner of the license plate and shall be issued one time during the life of the license plate, or upon request when it has been damaged or destroyed. There shall also be issued with each license plate a serially numbered validation sticker showing the year of expiration, which sticker shall be placed on the upper right corner of the license plate. Such license plate and validation stickers shall be issued based on the applicant's appropriate renewal period. The registration period shall be a period of 12 months, and all expirations shall occur based on the applicant's appropriate registration period. A vehicle with an apportioned registration shall be issued an annual license plate and a cab card that denote the declared gross vehicle weight for each apportioned jurisdiction in which the vehicle is authorized to operate.

(c)  Registration license plates equipped with validation stickers shall be valid for not more than 12 months and shall expire at midnight on the last day of the registration period. For each registration period after the one in which the metal registration license plate is issued, and until the license plate is required to be replaced, a validation sticker showing the year of expiration shall be issued upon payment of the proper license tax amount and fees and shall be valid for not more than 12 months. When license plates equipped with validation stickers are issued in any month other than the owner's birth month or the designated registration period for any other motor vehicle, the effective date shall reflect the birth month or month and the year of renewal. However, when a license plate or validation sticker is issued for a period of less than 12 months, the applicant shall pay the appropriate amount of license tax and the applicable fee under the provisions of s. 320.14 in addition to all other fees. Validation stickers issued for vehicles taxed under the provisions of s. 320.08(6)(a), for any company which owns 250 vehicles or more, or for semitrailers taxed under the provisions of s. 320.08(5)(a), for any company which owns 50 vehicles or more, may be placed on any vehicle in the fleet so long as the vehicle receiving the validation sticker has the same owner's name and address as the vehicle to which the validation sticker was originally assigned.

(2)  The department shall provide the several tax collectors and license plate agents with the necessary number of validation stickers.

(3)(a)  Registration license plates shall be of metal specially treated with a retroreflective material, as specified by the department. The registration license plate is designed to increase nighttime visibility and legibility and shall be at least 6 inches wide and not less than 12 inches in length, unless a plate with reduced dimensions is deemed necessary by the department to accommodate motorcycles, mopeds, or similar smaller vehicles. Validation stickers shall be treated with a retroreflective material, shall be of such size as specified by the department, and shall adhere to the license plate. The registration license plate shall be imprinted with a combination of bold letters and numerals or numerals, not to exceed seven digits, to identify the registration license plate number. The license plate shall also be imprinted with the word "Florida" at the top and the name of the county in which it is sold at the bottom, except that apportioned license plates shall have the word "Apportioned" at the bottom and license plates issued for vehicles taxed under s. 320.08(3)(d), (4)(m) or (n), (5)(b) or (c), or (14) shall have the word "Restricted" at the bottom. License plates issued for vehicles taxed under s. 320.08(12) must be imprinted with the word "Florida" at the top and the word "Dealer" at the bottom. Manufacturer license plates issued for vehicles taxed under s. 320.08(12) must be imprinted with the word "Florida" at the top and the word "Manufacturer" at the bottom. License plates issued for vehicles taxed under s. 320.08(5)(d) or (e) must be imprinted with the word "Wrecker" at the bottom. Any county may, upon majority vote of the county commission, elect to have the county name removed from the license plates sold in that county. The words "Sunshine State" shall be printed in lieu thereof. In those counties where the county commission has not removed the county name from the license plate, the tax collector may, in addition to issuing license plates with the county name printed on the license plate, also issue license plates with the words "Sunshine State" printed on the license plate subject to the approval of the department and a legislative appropriation for the additional license plates. A license plate issued for a vehicle taxed under s. 320.08(6) may not be assigned a registration license number, or be issued with any other distinctive character or designation, that distinguishes the motor vehicle as a for-hire motor vehicle.

(b)  An additional fee of 50 cents shall be collected on each motor vehicle registration or motor vehicle renewal registration issued in this state in order that all license plates and validation stickers be fully treated with retroreflective material.

(4)  The corporation organized under chapter 946 may manufacture license plates, validation stickers, and decals, as well as temporary tags, disabled hang tags, vessel decals, and fuel use decals, for the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles as provided in this chapter and chapter 327. The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is not required to obtain competitive bids in order to contract with the corporation.

History.--ss. 4, 13, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1009, 1018; ss. 4, 10, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 5, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1283, 1292; s. 1, ch. 13701, 1929; s. 1, ch. 20408, 1941; s. 1, ch. 26481, 1951; ss. 1, 2, ch. 63-490; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 2, ch. 69-178; ss. 2, 9, ch. 72-79; s. 92, ch. 73-333; s. 2, ch. 74-338; s. 7, ch. 75-66; s. 4, ch. 77-120; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 6, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 77-395; s. 1, ch. 77-415; s. 1, ch. 78-48; s. 2, ch. 78-186; s. 4, ch. 78-207; s. 2, ch. 78-225; s. 9, ch. 79-3; s. 65, ch. 79-164; s. 13, ch. 81-151; s. 4, ch. 81-212; s. 25, ch. 83-216; s. 11, ch. 83-318; s. 10, ch. 84-260; s. 7, ch. 84-280; s. 1, ch. 85-176; s. 47, ch. 85-180; s. 23, ch. 87-198; s. 22, ch. 88-557; s. 2, ch. 89-364; s. 50, ch. 90-132; s. 1, ch. 90-194; s. 1, ch. 91-82; s. 63, ch. 93-120; s. 1, ch. 93-398; s. 1, ch. 94-163; s. 47, ch. 94-306; s. 32, ch. 96-413; s. 4, ch. 97-58; s. 20, ch. 97-300; ss. 21, 263, ch. 99-248; s. 11, ch. 99-260.

320.0601  Rental car companies; identification of vehicles as for-hire.--

(1)  A rental car company may not rent in this state any for-hire vehicle, other than vehicles designed to transport cargo, that has affixed to its exterior any bumper stickers, insignias, or advertising that identifies the vehicle as a rental vehicle.

(2)  As used in this section, the term:

(a)  "Bumper stickers, insignias, or advertising" does not include:

1.  Any emblem of no more than two colors which is less than 2 inches by 4 inches, which is placed on the rental car for inventory purposes only, and which does not display the name or logo of the rental car company; or

2.  Any license required by the law of the state in which the vehicle is registered.

(b)  "Rent in this state" means to sign a rental contract in this state or to deliver a car to a renter in this state.

(3)  A rental car company that leases a motor vehicle that is found to be in violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of $500 per occurrence.

History.--s. 3, ch. 93-398; s. 264, ch. 99-248.

320.0605  Certificate of registration; possession required; exception.--The registration certificate or an official copy thereof, a true copy of a rental or lease agreement issued for a motor vehicle or issued for a replacement vehicle in the same registration period, a temporary receipt printed upon self-initiated electronic renewal of a registration via the Internet, or a cab card issued for a vehicle registered under the International Registration Plan shall, at all times while the vehicle is being used or operated on the roads of this state, be in the possession of the operator thereof or be carried in the vehicle for which issued and shall be exhibited upon demand of any authorized law enforcement officer or any agent of the department. The provisions of this section do not apply during the first 30 days after purchase of a replacement vehicle. A violation of this section is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation as provided in chapter 318.

History.--s. 12, ch. 83-318; s. 5, ch. 86-185; s. 14, ch. 86-243; s. 48, ch. 94-306; s. 913, ch. 95-148; s. 50, ch. 96-350; s. 265, ch. 99-248; s. 28, ch. 2000-313.

320.0607  Replacement license plates, validation decal, or mobile home sticker.--

(1)  Any law enforcement officer or department license and registration inspector may at any time inspect a license plate or validation decal for proper display and legibility as prescribed by chapter 316. A damaged or defaced plate or decal may be required to be replaced.

(2)  When a license plate, mobile home sticker, or validation decal has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, the owner of the motor vehicle or mobile home for which the plate, sticker, or decal was issued shall make application to the department for a replacement. The application shall contain the plate, sticker, or decal number being replaced and a statement that the item was lost, stolen, or destroyed. If the application includes a copy of the police report prepared in response to a report of a stolen plate, sticker, or decal, such plate, sticker, or decal must be replaced at no charge.

(3)  Except as provided in subsection (2), in all such cases, upon filing of an application accompanied by a fee of $10 plus applicable service charges, the department shall issue a replacement plate, sticker, or decal as the case may be if it is satisfied that the information reported in the application is true. The replacement fee shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.

(4)  Any license plate, sticker, or decal lost in the mail may be replaced at no charge. Neither the service charge nor the replacement fee shall be applied to this replacement. However, the application for a replacement shall contain a statement of such fact, the audit number of the lost item, and the date issued.

(5)  Upon the issuance of an original license plate, the applicant shall pay a fee of $10 to be deposited in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.

(6)  All funds derived from the sale of temporary tags under the provisions of s. 320.131 shall be deposited in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.

History.--s. 13, ch. 83-318; s. 3, ch. 86-88; s. 51, ch. 90-132; s. 64, ch. 93-120; s. 49, ch. 94-306.

320.0609  Transfer and exchange of registration license plates; transfer fee.--

(1)(a)  The registration license plate and certificate of registration shall be issued to, and remain in the name of, the owner of the vehicle registered and may be transferred by the owner from the vehicle for which the registration license plate was issued to any vehicle which the owner may acquire within the same classification; or, subject to the procedures set forth in subsection (2), such plate may be surrendered to the department in exchange for a license plate of the appropriate classification, if the replacement vehicle is of a different classification.

(b)  The transfer of a license plate from a vehicle disposed of to a newly acquired vehicle does not constitute a new registration. The application for transfer shall be accepted without requiring proof of personal injury protection or liability insurance.

(2)(a)  Upon a sale, trade, transfer, or other disposition of a motor vehicle, the owner shall remove the registration license plate therefrom and either return it or transfer it to a replacement motor vehicle. No registration license plate shall be temporarily or permanently attached to any new or used replacement or substitute vehicle without filing an application for transfer of such registration license plate and paying the transfer fee of $4.50 to the department.

(b)  The requirement to pay a transfer fee does not apply when the replacement vehicle is classified under s. 320.08(2)(b), (c), or (d) or (3)(a), (b), or (c) and the original vehicle to be replaced is also classified under s. 320.08(2)(b), (c), or (d) or (3)(a), (b), or (c).

(3)  A registration license plate assigned to a vehicle is transferable to any other vehicle within the same classification. If the license plate is not transferable, the owner may surrender such license plate to the department in exchange for a license plate of the appropriate classification for use on the newly acquired vehicle.

(4)  If the replacement vehicle and the original vehicle to be replaced meet the criteria in paragraph (2)(b), there shall be no additional tax required in order to transfer the registration license plate to the replacement vehicle for the duration of a current registration period and to issue a new registration certificate.

(5)  For a transfer or exchange other than one specified in paragraph (2)(b), the following provisions apply:

(a)  If the replacement motor vehicle requires the same amount of license tax under s. 320.08 as the original vehicle to be replaced, no additional tax other than the transfer fee of $4.50, accompanied by an application for transfer on a form supplied by the department, is required to transfer or exchange a registration license plate for use on a replacement vehicle for the duration of a current registration period and to issue a new certificate of registration.

(b)  If the replacement motor vehicle is within a classification requiring a higher license tax than that of the original vehicle to be replaced, the original license plate shall be surrendered in exchange for a plate within the appropriate classification, and an amount representing the pro rata difference in the tax required shall be paid for the remaining months of the registration period. Such payment is in addition to the transfer fee authorized in this section. The minimum charge for issuance of a license plate provided in s. 320.14 does not apply to an exchange of license plates under this section.

(6)  Upon a sale, trade, transfer, or other disposition of a mobile home, the owner shall remove the sticker therefrom and may exchange it for another sticker to be applied to a replacement mobile home. Such exchange shall be without cost to the owner. No credit will be given toward the purchase of a license plate for any other type of vehicle. The department shall ensure that there is adequate internal control of mobile home stickers that have been removed for exchange or refund.

(7)  A surviving spouse of a registered owner of any motor vehicle may, upon presenting the death certificate, request a registration certificate and transfer of the registration license plate.

History.--s. 14, ch. 83-318; s. 4, ch. 85-81; s. 24, ch. 87-198; s. 116, ch. 90-136.

320.061  Unlawful to alter motor vehicle registration certificates, license plates, mobile home stickers, or validation stickers; penalty.--No person shall alter the original appearance of any registration license plate, mobile home sticker, validation sticker, or vehicle registration certificate issued for and assigned to any motor vehicle or mobile home, whether by mutilation, alteration, defacement, or change of color or in any other manner. Any person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 9, ch. 28186, 1953; s. 3, ch. 69-178; s. 192, ch. 71-136; s. 3, ch. 72-79; s. 7, ch. 77-357; s. 15, ch. 83-318; s. 33, ch. 96-413.

320.0655  Permanent license plates for governmental entities and volunteer fire departments.--

(1)  A permanent license plate shall be issued for any motor vehicle owned or exclusively operated by the state or by any county, municipality, or other governmental entity. All such license plates shall be of a distinctive color, different from that of plates issued under s. 320.06. Such plate shall be displayed as required by s. 316.605 and shall be removed upon the sale of the vehicle or when the vehicle otherwise becomes ineligible for the permanent plate. If it has become lost, mutilated, or destroyed, the plate may be replaced as provided by s. 320.0607. The use of such plate on any vehicle other than one authorized in this subsection is prohibited, except as approved by the department. However, such plate may be used on a vehicle loaned, rented, or leased to a district school board for the purpose of providing driver education training.

(2)  A permanent license plate shall be issued for any motor vehicle owned and exclusively operated by a volunteer fire department, which plate shall be of a distinctive color. The plate shall be displayed as required by s. 316.605 and shall be removed upon sale of the vehicle or when the vehicle otherwise becomes ineligible for the permanent plate. If it has become lost, mutilated, or destroyed, the plate may be replaced as provided by s. 320.0607. The use of such plate on any vehicle other than one authorized in this subsection is prohibited, except as approved by the department.

(3)  Any motor vehicle issued a license plate pursuant to this section is exempt from the requirement to pay annual license taxes pursuant to s. 320.08 but must pay the fee provided by s. 320.10(2).

History.--s. 17, ch. 83-318.

320.0657  Permanent registration; fleet license plates.--

(1)  As used in this section, the term "fleet" means nonapportioned motor vehicles owned or leased by a company and used for business purposes. Vehicle numbers comprising a "fleet" shall be established by the department. Vehicles registered as short-term rental vehicles are excluded from the provisions of this section.

(2)(a)  The owner or lessee of a fleet of motor vehicles shall, upon application in the manner and at the time prescribed and upon approval by the department and payment of the license tax prescribed under s. 320.08(2), (3), (4), (5)(a) and (b), (6)(a), (7), and (8), be issued permanent fleet license plates. All vehicles with a fleet license plate shall have the company's name or logo and unit number displayed so that they are readily identifiable.

(b)  The plates, which shall be of a distinctive color, shall have the word "Fleet" appearing at the bottom and the word "Florida" appearing at the top. The plates shall conform in all respects to the provisions of this chapter, except as specified herein.

(c)  In addition to the license tax prescribed by s. 320.08(2), (3), (4), (5)(a) and (b), (6)(a), (7), and (8), an annual fleet management fee of $2 shall be charged. A one-time license plate manufacturing fee of $1.50 shall be charged for plates issued for the established number of vehicles in the fleet. If the size of the fleet is increased, an issuance fee of $10 per vehicle will be charged to include the license plate manufacturing fee. If the license plate manufacturing cost increases, the department shall increase the license plate manufacturing fee to recoup its cost. Fees collected shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. Payment of registration license tax and fees shall be made annually and be evidenced only by the issuance of a single receipt by the department. The provisions of s. 320.0605 do not apply to vehicles registered in accordance with this section, and no annual validation sticker is required.

(3)  If a recipient of fleet license plates fails to properly and timely renew or initially register vehicles in its fleet, the department may impose a delinquency penalty of $50 or 10 percent of the delinquent taxes due, whichever is greater, if the failure is for not more than 30 days, with an additional 10 percent penalty for each additional 30 days, or fraction thereof, that the failure continues, not to exceed a total penalty of 100 percent in the aggregate; however, the penalty may not be less than $50.

(4)  All recipients of fleet license plates authorized by this section must provide the department with an annual vehicle reconciliation and must annually surrender all unassigned license plates. Failure to comply with this subsection may result in fines of up to $1,000 for each occurrence, or in suspension or termination from the fleet program.

(5)  The department may adopt rules to comply with this section.

History.--s. 50, ch. 94-306; s. 1, ch. 94-312; s. 35, ch. 96-413; s. 23, ch. 99-248.

320.0659  Permanent registration of trailer for hire and semitrailers.--

(1)  A permanent license plate may be issued for any semitrailer classified under s. 320.08(5)(a)2. All such license plates shall be of a distinctive color, and shall be imprinted with the words "Permanent Trl" at the bottom. Such plates shall be displayed as required by s. 316.605 and shall be removed upon the sale of the vehicle or upon the vehicle's being removed from service. If the plate is lost, mutilated, or destroyed, the plate may be replaced as provided by s. 320.0607. The use of such plate on any vehicle other than the one to which it is issued is prohibited. No refunds shall be issued for this plate.

(2)  If apportionment is required for a permanent semitrailer, the apportionment must be indicated by means of a serially numbered decal, or decals, with the name of the state for which apportionment is granted and the year for which the apportionment is valid. The apportionment must be for 1 calendar year and must be renewed as necessary. For jurisdictions that do not require additional trailer fees, the fee provided in s. 320.08(5)(a)2. applies.

History.--s. 36, ch. 96-413.

320.07  Expiration of registration; annual renewal required; penalties.--

(1)  The registration of a motor vehicle or mobile home shall expire at midnight on the last day of the registration period. A vehicle shall not be operated on the roads of this state after expiration of the renewal period unless the registration has been renewed according to law.

(2)  Registration shall be renewed annually during the applicable renewal period, upon payment of the applicable license tax amount required by s. 320.08, service charges required by s. 320.04, and any additional fees required by law. However, any person owning a motor vehicle registered under s. 320.08(4), (6)(b), or (13) may register semiannually as provided in s. 320.0705.

(3)  The operation of any motor vehicle without having attached thereto a registration license plate and validation stickers, or the use of any mobile home without having attached thereto a mobile home sticker, for the current registration period shall subject the owner thereof, if he or she is present, or, if the owner is not present, the operator thereof to the following penalty provisions:

(a)  Any person whose motor vehicle or mobile home registration has been expired for a period of 6 months or less commits a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation as provided in chapter 318.

(b)  Any person whose motor vehicle or mobile home registration has been expired for more than 6 months shall upon a first offense be subject to the penalty provided in s. 318.14.

(c)  Any person whose motor vehicle or mobile home registration has been expired for more than 6 months shall upon a second or subsequent offense be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(d)  However, no operator shall be charged with a violation of this subsection if the operator can show, pursuant to a valid lease agreement, that the vehicle had been leased for a period of 30 days or less at the time of the offense.

(4)(a)  In addition to a penalty provided in subsection (3), a delinquent fee based on the following schedule of license taxes shall be imposed on any applicant who fails to renew a registration prior to the end of the month in which renewal registration is due. The delinquent fee shall be applied beginning on the 11th calendar day of the month succeeding the renewal period. The delinquent fee shall not apply to those vehicles which have not been required to be registered during the preceding registration period or as provided in s. 320.18(2). The delinquent fee shall be imposed as follows:

1.  License tax of $5 but not more than $25: $5 flat.

2.  License tax over $25 but not more than $50: $10 flat.

3.  License tax over $50 but not more than $100: $15 flat.

4.  License tax over $100 but not more than $400: $50 flat.

5.  License tax over $400 but not more than $600: $100 flat.

6.  License tax over $600 and up: $250 flat.

(b)  A person who has been assessed a penalty pursuant to s. 316.545(2)(b) for failure to have a valid vehicle registration certificate is not subject to the delinquent fee authorized by this subsection if such person obtains a valid registration certificate within 10 working days after such penalty was assessed. The official receipt authorized by s. 316.545(6) constitutes proof of payment of the penalty authorized in s. 316.545(2)(b).

(5)  Delinquent fees imposed under this section shall not be apportionable under the International Registration Plan.

History.--s. 5, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1010; CGL 1284; s. 2, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 1, ch. 16084, 1933; ss. 2, 5, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 1, ch. 26544, 1951; s. 2, ch. 28186, 1953; s. 1, ch. 61-12; s. 4, ch. 63-528; s. 2, ch. 63-496; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 5, ch. 69-178; s. 3, ch. 73-284; s. 8, ch. 75-66; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 9, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 77-454; s. 4, ch. 79-27; s. 1, ch. 79-79; s. 1, ch. 82-97; s. 1, ch. 82-128; s. 18, ch. 83-318; s. 60, ch. 85-180; s. 5, ch. 85-250; s. 6, ch. 86-185; s. 16, ch. 86-243; ss. 25, 48, ch. 87-198; s. 2, ch. 88-246; s. 37, ch. 91-224; s. 350, ch. 95-148; s. 51, ch. 96-350; s. 7, ch. 97-300; s. 7, ch. 98-223; s. 266, ch. 99-248.

320.0705  Semiannual registration or renewal for certain vehicles.--

(1)  The owner of a motor vehicle taxed under s. 320.08(4) or (6)(b) may register his or her vehicle semiannually, if the amount of license tax due annually is more than $100 and the vehicle registration fee is not required to be apportioned, upon payment of a fee of $2.50 for each semiannual registration.

(2)  During the first 3 months of the semiannual registration period beginning either June 1 or December 1, the semiannual tax shall be one-half of the respective annual amount set forth in s. 320.08. The fee for registration during the fourth month of the semiannual period or thereafter shall be at the rate of one-twelfth of the annual amount for the month of registration and one-twelfth of the annual amount for each month of the semiannual registration period succeeding the month of registration. However, any vehicle not registered in this state during the prior semiannual period and not subject to registration during such prior registration period may be registered in any month of the semiannual registration period beginning June 1 or December 1 at the rate of one-twelfth of the annual amount for the month of registration and one-twelfth of the annual amount for each month of the semiannual period succeeding the month of registration. The provisions of s. 320.14 do not apply to such vehicles.

(3)  The owner of a motor vehicle taxed under s. 320.08(6)(a) may register such vehicle for any 6-month period upon payment of one-half the annual license tax plus an additional fee of $2.50 for each period; provided, notwithstanding any other provision of law, such person is not entitled to a refund of any tax imposed under s. 320.08(6) upon such vehicle.

History.--s. 19, ch. 83-318; s. 48, ch. 85-180; s. 3, ch. 89-364; s. 351, ch. 95-148.

320.0706  Display of license plates on trucks.--The owner of any commercial truck of gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more shall display the registration license plate on both the front and rear of the truck in conformance with all the requirements of s. 316.605 that do not conflict with this section. However, the owner of a truck tractor shall be required to display the registration license plate only on the front of such vehicle.

History.--s. 11, ch. 84-260; s. 49, ch. 85-180; s. 17, ch. 86-243; s. 26, ch. 87-198; s. 37, ch. 96-413.

320.071  Advance registration renewal; procedures.--

(1)(a)  The owner of any motor vehicle or mobile home currently registered in this state may file an application for renewal of registration with the department, or its authorized agent in the county wherein the owner resides, any time during the 3 months preceding the date of expiration of the registration period.

(b)  The owner of any apportioned motor vehicle currently registered in this state may file an application for renewal of registration with the department any time during the 5 months preceding the date of expiration of the registration period.

(2)  Upon the filing of the application and payment of the appropriate license tax under s. 320.08, service charges required by s. 320.04, and any additional fees required by law, the department or its agent shall issue to the owner of the motor vehicle or mobile home a validation sticker or mobile home sticker, as appropriate, which, when affixed to the license plate or mobile home, shall renew the registration for the appropriate registration period.

(3)  Any person who uses a mobile home sticker or validation sticker without lawful authority or who willfully violates any rule of the department relating to this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 1, ch. 70-6; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 194, ch. 71-136; s. 10, ch. 77-357; s. 20, ch. 83-318; s. 18, ch. 86-243.

320.0715  International Registration Plan; motor carrier services; permits; retention of records.--

(1)  All commercial motor vehicles domiciled in this state and engaged in interstate commerce shall be registered in accordance with the provisions of the International Registration Plan and shall display apportioned license plates.

(2)(a)  An International Registration Plan motor vehicle trip permit registration may be issued for any vehicle which could be lawfully operated in the International Registration Plan jurisdiction if full registration or proportional registration were obtained. A Florida trip permit shall expire 10 days after issuance. The cost of a trip permit shall be $30, payment of which shall exempt the vehicle from payment of Florida apportioned license plate fees during the term for which the permit is valid. Any vehicle for which a trip permit has been issued may be operated in interstate or intrastate commerce in the jurisdiction for the period allowed under such permit. No motor carrier to whom a trip permit is issued shall knowingly allow the permit to be used by any other person, organization, or vehicle.

(b)  A motor carrier may, upon payment of the $30 fee, secure from the department or a designated authorized agent of the department a Florida International Registration Plan motor vehicle trip permit which shall be valid for 10 days. Such trip permit shall show the name and address of the motor carrier to whom it is issued, the date the vehicle is placed in and removed from service, a complete identification of the vehicle on which the permit is to be used, and the name and address of the owner or lessee of the vehicle. The permit shall then be carried on the vehicle which it identifies and shall be exhibited on demand to any authorized personnel. The motor carrier to whom a permit is issued shall be solely responsible for the proper use of the permit by its employees and lessees. Any erasure, alteration, or unauthorized use of such permit shall render it invalid and of no effect. Florida International Registration Plan motor vehicle trip permits may be transmitted to the motor carrier by electronic means and shall be complete as outlined by department personnel prior to transmittal.

(c)  Special temporary permits shall be provided to owner-operators not operating as a lessor, for a fee of $5. Such permit shall be valid for 10 days and shall only be utilized for owner-operator vehicles with a registered gross weight not in excess of the empty or unladen weight of the vehicle. Special temporary permits may be issued by the department or by any of its designated authorized agents. A special temporary permit may be transmitted to the owner-operator by electronic means and must be completed as outlined by department personnel prior to transmittal.

(3)(a)  If the department is unable to immediately issue the apportioned license plate to an applicant currently registered in this state under the International Registration Plan or to a vehicle currently titled in this state, the department or its designated agent is authorized to issue a 60-day temporary operational permit. The department or agent of the department shall charge a $3 fee and the service charge authorized by s. 320.04 for each temporary operational permit it issues.

(b)  The department shall in no event issue a temporary operational permit for any commercial motor vehicle to any applicant until the applicant has shown that:

1.  All sales or use taxes due on the registration of the vehicle are paid; and

2.  Insurance requirements have been met in accordance with ss. 320.02(5) and 627.7415.

(c)  Issuance of a temporary operational permit provides commercial motor vehicle registration privileges in each International Registration Plan member jurisdiction designated on said permit and therefore requires payment of all applicable registration fees and taxes due for that period of registration.

(d)  Application for permanent registration must be made to the department within 10 days from issuance of a temporary operational permit. Failure to file an application within this 10-day period may result in cancellation of the temporary operational permit.

(4)  Each motor carrier registered under the International Registration Plan shall maintain and keep, for a period of 4 years, pertinent records and papers as may be required by the department for the reasonable administration of this chapter.

(5)  The provisions of this section do not apply to any commercial motor vehicle domiciled in a foreign state that enters this state solely for the purpose of bringing a commercial vehicle in for repairs, or picking up a newly purchased commercial vehicle, so long as the commercial motor vehicle is operated by its owner and is not hauling a load.

History.--s. 50, ch. 85-180; s. 19, ch. 86-243; s. 27, ch. 87-198; s. 8, ch. 88-306; s. 8, ch. 90-329; s. 27, ch. 95-143; s. 40, ch. 99-385.

¹320.072  Additional fee imposed on certain motor vehicle registration transactions.--

(1)  A fee of $100 is imposed upon the initial application for registration pursuant to s. 320.06 of every motor vehicle classified in s. 320.08(2), (3), and (9)(c) and (d).

(2)  The fee imposed by subsection (1) shall not apply to:

(a)  Any registration renewal transaction.

(b)  A transfer or exchange of a registration license plate from a motor vehicle that has been disposed of to a newly acquired motor vehicle pursuant to s. 320.0609(2) or (5).

(c)  Any initial registration resulting from transfer of title between coowners as provided by s. 319.22, transfer of ownership by operation of law as provided by s. 319.28, or transfer of title from a person to a member of that person's immediate family as defined in s. 657.002 who resides in the same household.

(d)  The registration of any motor vehicle owned by and operated exclusively for the personal use of:

1.  Any member of the United States Armed Forces, or his or her spouse or dependent child, who is not a resident of this state and who is stationed in this state while in compliance with military orders.

2.  Any former member of the United States Armed Forces, or his or her spouse or dependent child, who purchased such motor vehicle while stationed outside of Florida, who has separated from the Armed Forces and was not dishonorably discharged or discharged for bad conduct, who was a resident of this state at the time of enlistment and at the time of discharge, and who applies for registration of such motor vehicle within 6 months after discharge.

3.  Any member of the United States Armed Forces, or his or her spouse or dependent child, who was a resident of this state at the time of enlistment, who purchased such motor vehicle while stationed outside of Florida, and who is now reassigned by military order to this state.

4.  Any spouse or dependent child of a member of the United States Armed Forces who loses his or her life while on active duty or who is listed by the Armed Forces as "missing-in-action." Such spouse or child must be a resident of this state and the service member must have been a resident of this state at the time of enlistment. Registration of such motor vehicle must occur within 1 year of the notification of the service member's death or of his or her status as "missing-in-action."

5.  Any member of the United States Armed Forces, or his or her spouse or dependent child, who was a resident of this state at the time of enlistment, who purchased a motor vehicle while stationed outside of Florida, and who continues to be stationed outside of Florida.

(e)  The registration of any motor vehicle owned or exclusively operated by the state or by any county, municipality, or other governmental entity.

(f)  The registration of a truck defined in s. 320.08(3)(d).

(g)  Any ancient or antique automobile or truck for private use registered pursuant to s. 320.086(1) or (2).

(3)  A refund of the fee imposed under subsection (1) shall be granted to anyone who, within 3 months after paying such fee, sells, transfers, or otherwise disposes of a motor vehicle classified in s. 320.08(2), (3), or (9)(c) or (d) in any transaction not exempt from the fee pursuant to paragraph (2)(b), paragraph (2)(c), or paragraph (2)(d). A person requesting a refund must present proof of having paid the fee pursuant to subsection (1) and must surrender the license plate of the disposed-of vehicle.

²(4)  A tax collector or other duly authorized agent of the department shall promptly remit all moneys collected pursuant to this section, less any refunds granted pursuant to subsection (3), to the department. The department shall deposit 30 percent of such moneys as they are received into the General Revenue Fund. The remainder of the proceeds, after deducting the service charge imposed by s. 215.20, shall be deposited into the State Transportation Trust Fund.

(5)  The fee imposed in subsection (1) shall not apply if it is determined, pursuant to an affidavit submitted by the owner on a form approved by the department, that the registration being transferred is from a vehicle that is not operational, is in storage, or will not be operated on the streets and highways of this state.

History.--s. 1, ch. 89-364; s. 74, ch. 90-132; s. 113, ch. 90-136; s. 8, ch. 91-79; s. 10, ch. 91-82; s. 352, ch. 95-148; ss. 22, 38, ch. 96-413; s. 8, ch. 97-300; s. 31, ch. 99-248; s. 10, ch. 2000-257.

¹Note.--Section 22, ch. 2000-257, provides that "[n]otwithstanding any other law to the contrary the requirements of sections 206.46(3) and 206.606(2), Florida Statutes, shall not apply to any funding, programs, or other provisions contained in this act."

²Note.--Section 10, ch. 2000-257, amended subsection (4), effective July 1, 2005, to read:

(4)  A tax collector or other duly authorized agent of the department shall promptly remit all moneys collected pursuant to this section, less any refunds granted pursuant to subsection (3), to the department to be deposited into the State Transportation Trust Fund.

320.08  License taxes.--Except as otherwise provided herein, there are hereby levied and imposed annual license taxes for the operation of motor vehicles, mopeds, motorized bicycles as defined in s. 316.003(2), and mobile homes, as defined in s. 320.01, which shall be paid to and collected by the department or its agent upon the registration or renewal of registration of the following:

(1)  MOTORCYCLES and MOPEDS.--

(a)  Any motorcycle: $10 flat.

(b)  Any moped: $5 flat.

(c)  Upon registration of any motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or moped there shall be paid in addition to the license taxes specified in this subsection a nonrefundable motorcycle safety education fee in the amount of $2.50. The proceeds of such additional fee shall be deposited in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund and be used exclusively to fund a motorcycle driver improvement program implemented pursuant to s. 322.025 or the Florida Motorcycle Safety Education Program established in s. 322.0255.

(d)  An ancient or antique motorcycle: $10 flat.

(2)  AUTOMOBILES FOR PRIVATE USE.--

(a)  An ancient or antique automobile, as defined in s. 320.086, or a street rod, as defined in s. 320.0863: $7.50 flat.

(b)  Net weight of less than 2,500 pounds: $14.50 flat.

(c)  Net weight of 2,500 pounds or more, but less than 3,500 pounds: $22.50 flat.

(d)  Net weight of 3,500 pounds or more: $32.50 flat.

(3)  TRUCKS.--

(a)  Net weight of less than 2,000 pounds: $14.50 flat.

(b)  Net weight of 2,000 pounds or more, but not more than 3,000 pounds: $22.50 flat.

(c)  Net weight more than 3,000 pounds, but not more than 5,000 pounds: $32.50 flat.

(d)  A truck defined as a "goat," or any other vehicle when used in the field by a farmer or in the woods for the purpose of harvesting a crop, including naval stores, during such harvesting operations, and which is not principally operated upon the roads of the state: $7.50 flat. A "goat" is a motor vehicle designed, constructed, and used principally for the transportation of citrus fruit within citrus groves.

(e)  An ancient or antique truck, as defined in s. 320.086: $7.50 flat.

(4)  HEAVY TRUCKS, TRUCK TRACTORS, FEES ACCORDING TO GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT.--

(a)  Gross vehicle weight of 5,001 pounds or more, but less than 6,000 pounds: $45 flat.

(b)  Gross vehicle weight of 6,000 pounds or more, but less than 8,000 pounds: $65 flat.

(c)  Gross vehicle weight of 8,000 pounds or more, but less than 10,000 pounds: $76 flat.

(d)  Gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or more, but less than 15,000 pounds: $87 flat.

(e)  Gross vehicle weight of 15,000 pounds or more, but less than 20,000 pounds: $131 flat.

(f)  Gross vehicle weight of 20,000 pounds or more, but less than 26,001 pounds: $186 flat.

(g)  Gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, but less than 35,000: $240 flat.

(h)  Gross vehicle weight of 35,000 pounds or more, but less than 44,000 pounds: $300 flat.

(i)  Gross vehicle weight of 44,000 pounds or more, but less than 55,000 pounds: $572 flat.

(j)  Gross vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or more, but less than 62,000 pounds: $678 flat.

(k)  Gross vehicle weight of 62,000 pounds or more, but less than 72,000 pounds: $800 flat.

(l)  Gross vehicle weight of 72,000 pounds or more: $979 flat.

(m)  Notwithstanding the declared gross vehicle weight, a truck tractor used within a 150-mile radius of its home address shall be eligible for a license plate for a fee of $240 flat if:

1.  The truck tractor is used exclusively for hauling forestry products; or

2.  The truck tractor is used primarily for the hauling of forestry products, and is also used for the hauling of associated forestry harvesting equipment used by the owner of the truck tractor.

(n)  A truck tractor or heavy truck, not operated as a for-hire vehicle, which is engaged exclusively in transporting raw, unprocessed, and nonmanufactured agricultural or horticultural products within a 150-mile radius of its home address, shall be eligible for a restricted license plate for a fee of $65 flat, if such vehicle's declared gross vehicle weight is less than 44,000 pounds; or $240 flat, if such vehicle's declared gross vehicle weight is 44,000 pounds or more and such vehicle only transports:

1.  From the point of production to the point of primary manufacture;

2.  From the point of production to the point of assembling the same; or

3.  From the point of production to a shipping point of either a rail, water, or motor transportation company.

Such not-for-hire truck tractors and heavy trucks used exclusively in transporting raw, unprocessed, and nonmanufactured agricultural or horticultural products may be incidentally used to haul farm implements and fertilizers when delivered direct to the growers. The department may require any such documentation deemed necessary to determine eligibility prior to issuance of this license plate. For the purpose of this paragraph, "not-for-hire" means the owner of the motor vehicle must also be the owner of the raw, unprocessed, and nonmanufactured agricultural or horticultural product, or the user of the farm implements and fertilizer being delivered.

(5)  SEMITRAILERS, FEES ACCORDING TO GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT; SCHOOL BUSES; SPECIAL PURPOSE VEHICLES.--

(a)1.  A semitrailer drawn by a GVW truck tractor by means of a fifth-wheel arrangement: $10 flat per registration year or any part thereof.

2.  A semitrailer drawn by a GVW truck tractor by means of a fifth-wheel arrangement: $50 flat per permanent registration.

(b)  A motor vehicle equipped with machinery and designed for the exclusive purpose of well drilling, excavation, construction, spraying, or similar activity, and which is not designed or used to transport loads other than the machinery described above over public roads: $32.50 flat.

(c)  A school bus used exclusively to transport pupils to and from school or school or church activities or functions within their own county: $30 flat.

(d)  A wrecker, as defined in s. 320.01(40), which is used to tow a vessel as defined in s. 327.02(36), a disabled, abandoned, stolen-recovered, or impounded motor vehicle as defined in s. 320.01(38), or a replacement motor vehicle as defined in s. 320.01(39): $30 flat.

(e)  A wrecker, as defined in s. 320.01(40), which is used to tow any motor vehicle, regardless of whether or not such motor vehicle is a disabled motor vehicle as defined in s. 320.01(38), a replacement motor vehicle as defined in s. 320.01(39), a vessel as defined in s. 327.02(36), or any other cargo, as follows:

1.  Gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or more, but less than 15,000 pounds: $87 flat.

2.  Gross vehicle weight of 15,000 pounds or more, but less than 20,000 pounds: $131 flat.

3.  Gross vehicle weight of 20,000 pounds or more, but less than 26,000 pounds: $186 flat.

4.  Gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or more, but less than 35,000 pounds: $240 flat.

5.  Gross vehicle weight of 35,000 pounds or more, but less than 44,000 pounds: $300 flat.

6.  Gross vehicle weight of 44,000 pounds or more, but less than 55,000 pounds: $572 flat.

7.  Gross vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or more, but less than 62,000 pounds: $678 flat.

8.  Gross vehicle weight of 62,000 pounds or more, but less than 72,000 pounds: $800 flat.

9.  Gross vehicle weight of 72,000 pounds or more: $979 flat.

(f)  A hearse or ambulance: $30 flat.

(6)  MOTOR VEHICLES FOR HIRE.--

(a)  Under nine passengers: $12.50 flat plus $1 per cwt.

(b)  Nine passengers and over: $12.50 flat plus $1.50 per cwt.

(7)  TRAILERS FOR PRIVATE USE.--

(a)  Any trailer weighing 500 pounds or less: $5 flat per year or any part thereof.

(b)  Net weight over 500 pounds: $2.50 flat plus 75 cents per cwt.

(8)  TRAILERS FOR HIRE.--

(a)  Net weight under 2,000 pounds: $2.50 flat plus $1 per cwt.

(b)  Net weight 2,000 pounds or more: $10 flat plus $1 per cwt.

(9)  RECREATIONAL VEHICLE-TYPE UNITS.--

(a)  A travel trailer or fifth-wheel trailer, as defined by s. 320.01(1)(b), that does not exceed 35 feet in length: $20 flat.

(b)  A camping trailer, as defined by s. 320.01(1)(b)2.: $10 flat.

(c)  A motor home, as defined by s. 320.01(1)(b)4.:

1.  Net weight of less than 4,500 pounds: $20 flat.

2.  Net weight of 4,500 pounds or more: $35 flat.

(d)  A truck camper as defined by s. 320.01(1)(b)3.:

1.  Net weight of less than 4,500 pounds: $20 flat.

2.  Net weight of 4,500 pounds or more: $35 flat.

(e)  A private motor coach as defined by s. 320.01(1)(b)5.:

1.  Net weight of less than 4,500 pounds: $20 flat.

2.  Net weight of 4,500 pounds or more: $35 flat.

(10)  PARK TRAILERS; TRAVEL TRAILERS; FIFTH-WHEEL TRAILERS; 35 FEET TO 40 FEET.--

(a)  Park trailers.--Any park trailer, as defined in s. 320.01(1)(b)7.: $25 flat.

(b)  A travel trailer or fifth-wheel trailer, as defined in s. 320.01(1)(b), that exceeds 35 feet: $25 flat.

(11)  MOBILE HOMES.--

(a)  A mobile home not exceeding 35 feet in length: $20 flat.

(b)  A mobile home over 35 feet in length, but not exceeding 40 feet: $25 flat.

(c)  A mobile home over 40 feet in length, but not exceeding 45 feet: $30 flat.

(d)  A mobile home over 45 feet in length, but not exceeding 50 feet: $35 flat.

(e)  A mobile home over 50 feet in length, but not exceeding 55 feet: $40 flat.

(f)  A mobile home over 55 feet in length, but not exceeding 60 feet: $45 flat.

(g)  A mobile home over 60 feet in length, but not exceeding 65 feet: $50 flat.

(h)  A mobile home over 65 feet in length: $80 flat.

(12)  DEALER AND MANUFACTURER LICENSE PLATES.--A franchised motor vehicle dealer, independent motor vehicle dealer, marine boat trailer dealer, or mobile home dealer and manufacturer license plate: $12.50 flat.

(13)  EXEMPT OR OFFICIAL LICENSE PLATES.--Any exempt or official license plate: $3 flat.

(14)  LOCALLY OPERATED MOTOR VEHICLES FOR HIRE.--A motor vehicle for hire operated wholly within a city or within 25 miles thereof: $12.50 flat plus $1.50 per cwt.

(15)  TRANSPORTER.--Any transporter license plate issued to a transporter pursuant to s. 320.133: $75 flat.

History.--s. 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1011; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1285; ss. 1, 2, ch. 13888, 1929; s. 1, ch. 14656, 1931; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; CGL 1936 Supp. 1285(1); ss. 1, 2, ch. 18030, 1937; CGL 1940 Supp. 1285(2); s. 1, ch. 20310, 1941; s. 1, ch. 20507, 1941; s. 1, ch. 24272, 1947; s. 1, ch. 25393, 1949; s. 3, ch. 28186, 1953; s. 1, ch. 59-312; s. 2, ch. 59-351; s. 1, ch. 59-387; s. 1, ch. 61-116; s. 1, ch. 63-528; s. 6, ch. 65-190; s. 1, ch. 65-257; s. 1, ch. 65-332; s. 1, ch. 67-187; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 71-300; s. 3, ch. 72-339; s. 1, ch. 73-197; s. 1, ch. 73-244; s. 4, ch. 73-284; s. 1, ch. 74-243; s. 9, ch. 75-66; s. 2, ch. 76-135; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 2, ch. 77-395; s. 3, ch. 78-353; s. 5, ch. 78-363; s. 126, ch. 79-400; s. 14, ch. 81-151; s. 4, ch. 81-209; s. 6, ch. 82-97; s. 52, ch. 83-3; s. 1, ch. 83-19; s. 21, ch. 83-318; s. 5, ch. 85-81; s. 51, ch. 85-180; s. 11, ch. 85-309; s. 5, ch. 85-343; ss. 3, 12, ch. 87-161; s. 28, ch. 87-198; s. 2, ch. 88-410; s. 67, ch. 89-282; s. 3, ch. 89-320; s. 2, ch. 90-194; s. 65, ch. 93-120; s. 1, ch. 93-228; ss. 40, 51, ch. 94-306; s. 3, ch. 94-315; s. 19, ch. 96-413; s. 5, ch. 97-58; s. 9, ch. 97-300; s. 7, ch. 98-324; s. 24, ch. 99-248; s. 6, ch. 99-385.

320.08001  Electric vehicles; license tax.--The license tax for an electric vehicle or low-speed vehicle is the same as that prescribed in s. 320.08 for a vehicle that is not electrically powered.

History.--s. 11, ch. 95-333; s. 3, ch. 99-163.

320.0801  Additional license tax on certain vehicles.--

(1)  In addition to the license taxes specified in s. 320.08 and in subsection (2), there is hereby levied and imposed an annual license tax of 10 cents for the operation of a motor vehicle, as defined in s. 320.01, and moped, as defined in s. 316.003(77), which tax shall be paid to the department or its agent upon the registration or renewal of registration of the vehicle. Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 320.20, revenues collected from the tax imposed in this subsection shall be deposited in the Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund and used solely for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of ss. 395.401, 395.4015, 395.404, and 395.4045 and s. 11, chapter 87-399, Laws of Florida.

(2)  In addition to the license taxes imposed by s. 320.08 and by subsection (1), there is imposed an additional surcharge of $5 on each commercial motor vehicle having a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or more, which surcharge must be paid to the department or its agent upon the registration or renewal of registration of the commercial motor vehicle. Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 320.20, revenues collected from the surcharge imposed in this subsection must be deposited into the State Transportation Trust Fund.

History.--s. 9, ch. 87-399; s. 4, ch. 88-186; s. 4, ch. 88-306; s. 33, ch. 92-78; s. 61, ch. 92-289.

320.0802  Surcharge on license tax.--There is hereby levied and imposed on each license tax imposed under s. 320.08, except those set forth in s. 320.08(11), a surcharge in the amount of $1, which shall be collected in the same manner as the license tax and deposited into the State Agency Law Enforcement Radio System Trust Fund of the Department of Management Services.

History.--s. 2, ch. 88-144; s. 3, ch. 92-72; s. 278, ch. 92-279; s. 55, ch. 92-326; s. 268, ch. 99-248; s. 38, ch. 99-399.

320.0803  Moped license plates.--

(1)  Any other provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding, registration and payment of license taxes in accordance with these requirements and for the purposes stated herein shall in no way be construed as placing any requirements upon mopeds other than the requirements of registration and payment of license taxes.

(2)  Each request for a license plate for a moped shall be submitted to the department or its agent on an application form supplied by the department, accompanied by the license tax required in s. 320.08.

(3)  The license plate for a moped shall be 4 inches wide by 7 inches long.

(4)  A license plate for a moped shall be of the same material as license plates issued pursuant to s. 320.06; however, the word "Florida" shall be stamped across the top of the plate in small letters.

History.--s. 4, ch. 78-353; s. 22, ch. 83-318; s. 13, ch. 87-161; s. 28, ch. 95-143; s. 7, ch. 99-385.

320.08035  Persons who have disabilities; reduced dimension license plate.--The owner or lessee of a motorcycle, moped, or motorized disability access vehicle who resides in this state and qualifies for a parking permit for a person who has a disability under s. 320.0848, upon application and payment of the appropriate license tax and fees under s. 320.08(1), must be issued a license plate that has reduced dimensions as provided under s. 320.06(3)(a). The plate must be stamped with the international symbol of accessibility after the numeric and alpha serial number of the license plate. The plate entitles the person to all privileges afforded by a disabled parking permit issued under s. 320.0848.

History.--s. 52, ch. 94-306; s. 9, ch. 96-200; s. 8, ch. 99-385.

320.0804  Surcharge on license tax; transportation trust fund.--There is hereby levied and imposed on each license tax imposed under s. 320.08, except those set forth in s. 320.08(11), a surcharge in the amount of $2, which shall be collected in the same manner as the license tax and deposited into the State Transportation Trust Fund. This surcharge shall apply to registration periods beginning July 1, 1991.

History.--s. 175, ch. 91-112.

320.08046  Surcharge on license tax; General Revenue Fund.--There is levied on each license tax imposed under s. 320.08, except those set forth in s. 320.08(11), a surcharge in the amount of $1, which shall be collected in the same manner as the license tax. Of the proceeds of the license tax surcharge, 40 percent shall be deposited into the General Revenue Fund, 42 percent shall be deposited into the Grants and Donations Trust Fund in the Department of Juvenile Justice to fund the community juvenile justice partnership grants program, and 18 percent shall be deposited into the Florida Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Trust Fund to fund motor vehicle theft prevention programs pursuant to s. 860.158.

History.--s. 66, ch. 94-209; s. 37, ch. 95-267.

320.08047  Voluntary contribution for organ and tissue donor education.--As a part of the collection process for license taxes as specified in s. 320.08, individuals shall be permitted to make a voluntary contribution of $1, which contribution shall be deposited into the Florida Organ and Tissue Donor Education and Procurement Trust Fund for organ and tissue donor education and for maintaining the organ and tissue donor registry.

History.--s. 1, ch. 95-423; s. 30, ch. 96-418; s. 1, ch. 98-68.

320.08048  Sample license plates.--

(1)  The department is authorized, upon application and payment of a $10 fee per plate, to provide one or more sample regular issuance license plates or specialty license plates based upon availability.

(2)  The sample license plates described in subsection (1) shall have the word "SAMPLE" or an abbreviated variation thereof, as determined by the department, based on the specific design of such plate.

(3)  Fees collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.

(4)  Tax collectors are not required to pay fees for sample license plates obtained for display purposes at main or branch offices.

History.--s. 11, ch. 97-300.

320.0805  Personalized prestige license plates.--

(1)  The department shall issue a personalized prestige license plate to the owner or lessee of any motor vehicle, except a vehicle registered under the International Registration Plan or a commercial truck required to display two license plates pursuant to s. 320.0706, upon application and payment of the appropriate license tax and fees.

(2)  Each request for specific numbers or letters or combinations thereof shall be submitted annually to the department on an application form supplied by the department, accompanied by the following tax and fees:

(a)  The license tax required for the vehicle, as set forth in s. 320.08;

(b)  A prestige plate annual use fee of $10; and

(c)  A processing fee of $2.

(3)  The department shall review each application requesting a personalized prestige license plate and, if requested numerals or letters or combinations thereof have not been previously assigned or issued to any other applicant, and if the required tax and fees have been submitted, the department shall issue and deliver the requested personalized prestige license plate to the applicant.

(4)  The department is authorized to reject requests deemed by it to be objectionable, and the department is further authorized to recall, during a registration period, any issued personalized license plate determined by it to be obscene or otherwise objectionable.

(5)  Any application rejected by the department shall be returned to the applicant, along with the tax and fees submitted, within 15 days after the receipt of the application. If any personalized license plate is recalled within a current registration period, the department shall refund the prestige plate use fee of $10, the special fee of 50 cents, and the portion of the license tax, computed on a monthly basis, for the unused balance of the registration period.

(6)  A personalized prestige license plate shall be issued for the exclusive continuing use of the applicant. An exact duplicate of any plate may not be issued to any other applicant during the same registration period. An exact duplicate may not be issued for any succeeding year unless the previous owner of a specific plate relinquishes it by failure to apply for renewal or reissuance for three consecutive annual registration periods following the original year of issuance.

(7)  If a vehicle owner who has been issued a personalized prestige license plate acquires a replacement vehicle within a registration period, the department shall authorize a transfer of a prestige license plate to the replacement vehicle in accordance with the provisions of s. 320.0609. There will be no refund of the annual use fee or processing fee.

(8)(a)  Personalized prestige license plates shall consist of four types of plates as follows:

1.  A plate imprinted with numerals only. Such plates shall consist of numerals from 1 to 999, inclusive.

2.  A plate imprinted with capital letters only. Such plates shall consist of capital letters "A" through "Z" and shall be limited to a total of seven of the same or different capital letters. A hyphen may be added in addition to the seven letters.

3.  A plate imprinted with both capital letters and numerals. Such plates shall consist of no more than a total of seven characters, including both numerals and capital letters, in any combination, except that a hyphen may be added in addition to the seven characters if desired or needed. However, on those plates issued to, and bearing the names of, organizations, the letters and numerals shall be of such size, if necessary, as to accommodate a maximum of 18 digits for automobiles, trucks, and recreational vehicles and 7 digits for motorcycles. Plates consisting of the four capital letters "PRES" preceded or followed by a hyphen and numerals of 1 to 999 shall be reserved for issuance only to applicants who qualify as members of the press and who are associated with, or are employees of, the reporting media.

(b)  Personalized prestige plates must be of the same material, size, and distinctive color as any license plates authorized by this chapter and issued by the state for any registration period; however, the imprinting of personalized prestige license plates shall be limited solely to the following:

1.  The letters or numerals or combination of both requested by the applicant must be stamped in large bold letters and numerals, limited to the number of characters based on the specific design of the plate requested by the applicant.

2.  The word "Florida" must be stamped across the bottom of the plate in small letters, unless the word "Florida" is required to be stamped across the top of the plate according to the specific design of the plate.

(9)  The annual use fee generated pursuant to this section shall be distributed pursuant to s. 320.20.

History.--ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, ch. 72-80; s. 1, ch. 74-301; s. 1, ch. 75-229; s. 1, ch. 77-125; s. 11, ch. 77-357; s. 3, ch. 77-395; s. 2, ch. 77-415; s. 1, ch. 78-213; s. 2, ch. 82-50; s. 23, ch. 83-318; s. 20, ch. 86-243; s. 1, ch. 87-197; s. 9, ch. 88-306; s. 1, ch. 88-311; s. 3, ch. 90-194; s. 82, ch. 91-221; s. 53, ch. 94-306; s. 4, ch. 94-315; s. 6, ch. 95-282; s. 20, ch. 96-413.

320.08053  Requirements for requests to establish specialty license plates.--

(1)  An organization that seeks authorization to establish a new specialty license plate for which an annual use fee is to be charged must submit to the department:

(a)  A request for the particular specialty license plate being sought, describing the proposed specialty license plate in general terms.

(b)  The results of a scientific sample survey of Florida motor vehicle owners that indicates at least 15,000 motor vehicle owners intend to purchase the proposed specialty license plate at the increased cost. The sample survey of registered motor vehicle owners must be performed independently of the requesting organization by an organization that conducts similar sample surveys as a normal course of business. Prior to conducting a sample survey for the purposes of this section, a requesting organization must obtain a determination from the department that the organization selected to conduct the survey performs similar surveys as a normal course of business and is independent of the requesting organization.

(c)  An application fee, not to exceed $60,000, to defray the department's cost for reviewing the application and developing the specialty license plate, if authorized. State funds may not be used to pay the application fee, except for collegiate specialty license plates authorized in s. 320.08058(3) and (13). The speciality license plate application provisions of this act shall not apply to any organization which has requested and received the required forms for obtaining a specialty license plate authorization from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, has opened a bank account for the funds collected for the specialty license tag and has made deposits to such an account, and has obtained signatures toward completing the requirements for the specialty license tag. All applications requested on or after the effective date of this act must meet the requirements of this act.

(d)  A marketing strategy outlining short-term and long-term marketing plans for the requested specialty license plate and a financial analysis outlining the anticipated revenues and the planned expenditures of the revenues to be derived from the sale of the requested specialty license plates.

The information required under this subsection must be submitted to the department at least 90 days before the convening of the next regular session of the Legislature.

(2)  If the specialty license plate requested by the organization is approved by law, the organization must submit the proposed art design for the specialty license plate to the department as soon as practicable, but no later than 60 days after the act approving the specialty license plate becomes a law. If the specialty license plate requested by the organization is not approved by the Legislature, the application fee shall be refunded to the requesting organization.

History.--s. 1, ch. 95-282; s. 1, ch. 98-414.

320.08056  Specialty license plates.--

(1)  The department is responsible for developing the specialty license plates authorized in s. 320.08053. The department shall begin production and distribution of each new specialty license plate within 1 year after approval of the specialty license plate by the Legislature.

(2)  The department shall issue a specialty license plate to the owner or lessee of any motor vehicle, except a vehicle registered under the International Registration Plan, a commercial truck required to display two license plates pursuant to s. 320.0706, or a truck tractor, upon request and payment of the appropriate license tax and fees.

(3)  Each request must be made annually to the department, accompanied by the following tax and fees:

(a)  The license tax required for the vehicle as set forth in s. 320.08.

(b)  A processing fee of $2.

(c)  A license plate fee as required by s. 320.06(1)(b).

(d)  A license plate annual use fee as required in subsection (4).

A request may be made any time during a registration period. If a request is made for a specialty license plate to replace a current valid license plate, the specialty license plate must be issued with appropriate decals attached at no tax for the plate, but all fees and service charges must be paid. When a request is made for a specialty license plate at the beginning of the registration period, the tax, together with all applicable fees and service charges, must be paid.

(4)  The following license plate annual use fees shall be collected for the appropriate specialty license plates:

(a)  Manatee license plate, $20.

(b)  Challenger license plate, $25, except that a person that purchases 1,000 or more Challenger license plates shall pay an annual use fee of $15 per plate.

(c)  Collegiate license plate, $25.

(d)  Florida Salutes Veterans license plate, $15.

(e)  Florida panther license plate, $25.

(f)  Florida United States Olympic Committee license plate, $15.

(g)  Florida Special Olympics license plate, $15.

(h)  Florida educational license plate, $15.

(i)  Florida Professional Sports Team license plate, $25.

(j)  Florida Indian River Lagoon license plate, $15.

(k)  Invest in Children license plate, $20.

(l)  Florida arts license plate, $20.

(m)  Bethune-Cookman College license plate, $25.

(n)  Florida Agricultural license plate, $20.

(o)  Girl Scout license plate, $20.

(p)  Police Athletic League license plate, $20.

(q)  Boy Scouts of America license plate, $20.

(r)  Largemouth Bass license plate, $25.

(s)  Sea Turtle license plate, $17.50.

(t)  Protect Wild Dolphins license plate, $20.

(u)  Barry University license plate, $25.

(v)  Everglades River of Grass license plate, $20.

(w)  Keep Kids Drug-Free license plate, $25.

(x)  Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches license plate, $20.

(y)  Conserve Wildlife license plate, $15.

(z)  Florida Memorial College license plate, $25.

(aa)  Tampa Bay Estuary license plate, $15.

(bb)  Florida Wildflower license plate, $15.

(cc)  United States Marine Corps license plate, $15.

(dd)  Choose Life license plate, $20.

(ee)  Share the Road license plate, $15.

(5)  If a vehicle owner or lessee to whom the department has issued a specialty license plate acquires a replacement vehicle within the owner's registration period, the department must authorize a transfer of the specialty license plate to the replacement vehicle in accordance with s. 320.0609. The annual use fee or processing fee may not be refunded.

(6)  Specialty license plates must bear the design required by law for the appropriate specialty license plate, and the designs and colors must be approved by the department. In addition to a design, the specialty license plates may bear the imprint of numerals from 1 to 999, inclusive, capital letters "A" through "Z," or a combination thereof. The department shall determine the maximum number of characters, including both numerals and letters. All specialty license plates must be otherwise of the same material and size as standard license plates issued for any registration period. In small letters, the word "Florida" must appear at either the bottom or top of the plate, depending upon the design. In addition, a specialty license plate may bear an appropriate slogan.

(7)  The department shall annually retain from the first proceeds derived from the annual use fees collected an amount sufficient to defray each specialty plate's pro rata share of the department's costs directly related to issuing the specialty plate. Such costs shall include distribution costs, direct costs to the department, and any applicable increased costs of manufacturing the specialty license plate. Any cost increase to the department related to actual cost of the plate, including a reasonable vendor profit, shall be verified by the Department of Management Services. The balance of the proceeds from the annual use fees collected for that specialty license plate shall be distributed as provided by law.

(8)(a)  The department must discontinue the issuance of an approved specialty license plate if:

1.  Less than 8,000 plates are issued for that specialty license plate by the end of the 5th year of sales.

2.  Less than 8,000 plates are issued for that specialty license plate during any subsequent 5-year period.

(b)  The department is authorized to discontinue the issuance of a specialty license plate and distribution of associated annual use fee proceeds if the organization no longer exists, if the organization has stopped providing services that are authorized to be funded from the annual use fee proceeds, or pursuant to an organizational recipient's request.

(c)  The requirements of paragraph (a) shall not apply to collegiate specialty license plates authorized in s. 320.08058(3) and (13).

(9)  The organization that requested the specialty license plate may not redesign the specialty license plate unless the inventory of those plates has been depleted. However, the organization may purchase the remaining inventory of the specialty license plates from the department at cost.

(10)  A specialty license plate annual use fee collected and distributed under this chapter, or any interest earned from those fees, may not be used for commercial or for-profit activities nor for general or administrative expenses, except as authorized by s. 320.08058 or to pay the cost of the audit or report required by s. 320.08062(1).

History.--s. 2, ch. 95-282; s. 1, ch. 96-160; s. 1, ch. 96-161; s. 1, ch. 96-162; s. 1, ch. 96-163; s. 1, ch. 96-164; s. 1, ch. 96-165; s. 49, ch. 97-100; s. 2, ch. 97-252; s. 1, ch. 97-272; s. 1, ch. 98-67; s. 1, ch. 98-72; s. 1, ch. 98-74; s. 1, ch. 98-76; s. 1, ch. 98-77; s. 1, ch. 98-181; ss. 2, 6, ch. 98-414; s. 99, ch. 99-13; s. 1, ch. 99-191; s. 25, ch. 99-248; s. 1, ch. 99-268; s. 1, ch. 99-294; s. 1, ch. 99-295; s. 1, ch. 99-301; s. 1, ch. 99-302.

320.08058  Specialty license plates.--

(1)  MANATEE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a manatee license plate to commemorate the official state marine mammal. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Save the Manatee" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The manatee license plate annual use fee must be deposited into the Save the Manatee Trust Fund, created within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and shall be used only for the purposes specified in s. 370.12(4).

(2)  CHALLENGER LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Challenger license plate to commemorate the seven astronauts who died when the space shuttle Challenger exploded on liftoff in 1986. The word "Florida" shall appear at the top of the plate, and the word "Challenger" must appear at the bottom of the plate, both words in small letters.

(b)  Fifty percent of the Challenger license plate annual use fee must be distributed to the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, Inc., to support the operations of the Center for Space Education and the Education Technology Institute. Funds received by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, Inc., may be used for administrative costs directly associated with the operation of the center and the institute. These funds must be used for the maintenance and support of the operations of the Center for Space Education and the Education Technology Institute operated by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, Inc. These operations must include preservice and inservice training in the use of technology for the state's instructional personnel in a manner consistent with state training programs and approved by the Department of Education. Up to 20 percent of funds received by the Center for Space Education and the Education Technology Institute may be expended for administrative costs directly associated with the operation of the center and the institute.

(c)  Fifty percent must be distributed to the Technological Research and Development Authority created by s. 2, chapter 87-455, Laws of Florida, for the purpose of funding space-related research grants, the Teacher/Quest Scholarship Program under s. 240.4082 as approved by the Florida Department of Education, and space-related economic development programs. The Technological Research and Development Authority shall coordinate and distribute available resources among state universities and independent colleges and universities based on the research strengths of such institutions in space science technology, community colleges, public school districts, and not-for-profit educational organizations.

(d)  Up to 10 percent of the funds distributed under paragraphs (b) and (c) may be used for continuing promotion and marketing of the license plate.

(e)  The Auditor General has the authority to examine any and all records pertaining to the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, Inc., and the Technological Research and Development Authority to determine compliance with the law.

(3)  COLLEGIATE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a collegiate license plate as provided in this section for state and independent universities domiciled in this state. However, any collegiate license plate created or established after January 1, 1997, must comply with the requirements of s. 320.08053 and be specifically authorized by an act of the Legislature. Collegiate license plates must bear the colors and design approved by the department as appropriate for each state and independent university. The word "Florida" must be stamped across the bottom of the plate in small letters.

(b)  A collegiate plate annual use fee is to be distributed to the state or independent university foundation designated by the purchaser for deposit in an unrestricted account. The Board of Regents shall require each state university to submit a plan for approval of the expenditure of all funds so designated. These funds may be used only for academic enhancement, including scholarships and private fundraising activities.

(4)  FLORIDA SALUTES VETERANS LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Florida Salutes Veterans license plate. The words "Florida Salutes Veterans" and the flag of the United States of America must appear on the plate.

(b)  The Florida Salutes Veterans license plate annual use fee must be deposited in the State Homes for Veterans Trust Fund, which is created in the State Treasury. All such moneys are to be administered by the Department of Veterans' Affairs and must be used solely for the purpose of constructing, operating, and maintaining domiciliary and nursing homes for veterans and for continuing promotion and marketing of the license plate, subject to the requirements of chapter 216.

(5)  FLORIDA PANTHER LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Florida panther license plate as provided in this section. Florida panther license plates must bear the design of a Florida panther and the colors that department approves. In small letters, the word "Florida" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The department shall distribute the Florida panther license plate annual use fee in the following manner:

1.  Eighty-five percent must be deposited in the Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund in the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to be used for education and programs to protect the endangered Florida panther.

2.  Fifteen percent, but no less than $300,000, must be deposited in the Florida Communities Trust Fund to be used pursuant to the Florida Communities Trust Act.

(c)  A person or corporation that purchases 10,000 or more panther license plates shall pay an annual use fee of $5 per plate and an annual processing fee of $2 per plate, in addition to the applicable license tax required under s. 320.08.

(6)  FLORIDA UNITED STATES OLYMPIC COMMITTEE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  Because the United States Olympic Committee has selected this state to participate in a combined fundraising program that provides for one-half of all money raised through volunteer giving to stay in this state and be administered by the direct-support organization established under s. 288.1229 to support amateur sports, and because the United States Olympic Committee and the direct-support organization are nonprofit organizations dedicated to providing athletes with support and training and preparing athletes of all ages and skill levels for sports competition, and because the direct-support organization assists in the bidding for sports competitions that provide significant impact to the economy of this state, and the Legislature supports the efforts of the United States Olympic Committee and the direct-support organization, the Legislature establishes a Florida United States Olympic Committee license plate for the purpose of providing a continuous funding source to support this worthwhile effort. Florida United States Olympic Committee license plates must contain the official United States Olympic Committee logo and must bear a design and colors that are approved by the department. The word "Florida" must be centered at the top of the plate.

(b)  The license plate annual use fees are to be annually distributed as follows:

1.  The first $5 million collected annually must be paid to the direct-support organization to be distributed as follows:

a.  Fifty percent must be distributed to the direct-support organization to be used for Florida's Sunshine State Games.

b.  Fifty percent must be distributed to the United States Olympic Committee.

2.  Any additional fees must be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.

(7)  FLORIDA SPECIAL OLYMPICS LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  Florida Special Olympics license plates must contain the official Florida Special Olympics logo and must bear a design and colors that are approved by the department. The word "Florida" must be centered at the top of the plate, and the words "Support Florida Special Olympics" must be centered at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The license plate annual use fees are to be annually distributed as follows:

1.  The first $5 million collected annually must be forwarded to the private nonprofit corporation as described in s. 393.002 and must be used solely for Special Olympics purposes as approved by the private nonprofit corporation.

2.  Any additional fees must be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.

(8)  FLORIDA EDUCATIONAL LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall develop a Florida educational license plate as provided in this section. Florida educational license plates must bear a design and colors that the department approves. The word "Florida" must appear in small letters at the top of the plate.

(b)  The license annual use fees are to be distributed annually as follows:

1.  In each school district that has a district prekindergarten through grade 12 public school foundation or a direct-support organization, the moneys raised in that school district through the sale of Florida educational license plates must be distributed to the foundation or organization for enhancing educational programs.

2.  In each school district that does not have a district prekindergarten through grade 12 public school foundation or a direct-support organization, the moneys raised in that school district through the sale of Florida educational license plates must be distributed to the district school board and must be used at the discretion of the board for enhancing educational programs.

(9)  FLORIDA PROFESSIONAL SPORTS TEAM LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall develop a Florida Professional Sports Team license plate as provided in this section for Major League Baseball, National Basketball Association, National Football League, Arena Football Teams, and National Hockey League teams domiciled in this state. However, any Florida Professional Sports Team license plate created or established after January 1, 1997, must comply with the requirements of s. 320.08053 and be specifically authorized by an act of the Legislature. Florida Professional Sports Team license plates must bear the colors and design approved by the department and must include the official league or team logo, or both, as appropriate for each team. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate.

(b)  The license plate annual use fees are to be annually distributed as follows:

1.  Fifty-five percent of the proceeds from the Florida Professional Sports Team plate must be deposited into the Professional Sports Development Trust Fund within the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development. These funds must be used solely to attract and support major sports events in this state. As used in this subparagraph, the term "major sports events" means, but is not limited to, championship or all-star contests of Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, the National Football League, the National Hockey League, the men's and women's National Collegiate Athletic Association Final Four basketball championship, or a horseracing or dogracing Breeders' Cup. All funds must be used to support and promote major sporting events, and the uses must be approved by the Florida Sports Foundation.

2.  The remaining proceeds of the Florida Professional Sports Team license plate must be allocated to the Florida Sports Foundation, a direct-support organization of the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development. These funds must be deposited into the Professional Sports Development Trust Fund within the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development. These funds must be used by the Florida Sports Foundation to promote the economic development of the sports industry; to distribute licensing and royalty fees to participating professional sports teams; to institute a grant program for communities bidding on minor sporting events that create an economic impact for the state; to distribute funds to Florida-based charities designated by the Florida Sports Foundation and the participating professional sports teams; and to fulfill the sports promotion responsibilities of the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development.

3.  The Florida Sports Foundation shall provide an annual financial and compliance audit of its financial accounts and records by an independent certified public accountant pursuant to the contract established by the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development as specified in s. 288.1229(5). The auditor shall submit the audit report to the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development for review and approval. If the audit report is approved, the office shall certify the audit report to the Auditor General for review.

(10)  FLORIDA INDIAN RIVER LAGOON LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  Because the Indian River Lagoon system has been targeted by the state as a priority water body for restoration and preservation since the 1987 Surface Water Improvement and Management Act, and because the St. Johns River and South Florida Water Management Districts have jointly developed a management plan that includes water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and public awareness and education, and because the United States Environmental Protection Agency has declared the Indian River Lagoon to be an estuary of national significance, and because coastal lagoon activities relating to saltwater fishing account for a multibillion dollar economic base, and because the Legislature supports the restoration efforts of the water management districts, the Legislature establishes a Florida Indian River Lagoon license plate for the purpose of providing a continuous funding source to support this worthwhile effort and to heighten public awareness of this economically significant resource. Florida Indian River Lagoon license plates must contain the fish "snook," which has been used as the Indian River Lagoon Surface Water Improvement and Management logo, suspended over seagrass, and must bear the colors and design approved by the department.

(b)  The license plate annual use fees are to be distributed annually as follows:

1.  The first $5 million collected annually must be transferred to the St. Johns River Water Management District. The district shall account for these funds separate from all other funds received. These funds must be distributed as follows:

a.  Based on Florida Indian River Lagoon license plate sales data from each county tax collector for Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach Counties, each county's total number of Florida Indian River Lagoon license plates sold between October 1 and September 30 must represent a percentage of the six-county total, calculated as follows: the total number sold for county A divided by the total number sold for counties A, B, C, D, E, and F is multiplied by 100. The percentage determined for St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach Counties must be totaled, and that total percentage of the statewide Florida Indian River Lagoon license plate revenues must be transferred to the South Florida Water Management District special Indian River Lagoon License Plate Revenue Account and distributed proportionately among St. Lucie, Martin, and Palm Beach Counties. The remaining funds in the St. Johns River Water Management District Revenue Account must be divided proportionately between Volusia, Brevard, and Indian River Counties.

b.  Each water management district is responsible for administering projects in its respective counties funded with the appropriate percentage of license plate revenues.

2.  Up to 5 percent of the proceeds from the annual use fee may be used for continuing promotion and marketing of the license plate.

3.  Any additional fees must be deposited into the General Revenue Fund. Fees are not to be deposited into the general revenue funds of the water management districts.

(c)  The application of Florida Indian River Lagoon license plate annual use fees is to be administered by the St. Johns River and South Florida Water Management Districts for Indian River Lagoon projects and in accordance with their contracting and purchasing policies and procedures, with the following restrictions:

1.  An annual amount of the total license plate use fees must be earmarked for each of the six lagoon basin counties, as determined in sub-subparagraph (b)1.a., to be expended in those counties on habitat restoration, including water quality improvement, and environmental education projects. At least 80 percent of the use fees must be used for restoration projects, and not more than 20 percent may be used for environmental education in each county. These project funds may serve as matching funds for other local, state, or federal funds or grants. Unencumbered funds from one year may be carried over to the following year but must be dedicated to a project within 2 years in the form of a contract, an interlocal agreement, or an approved plan by the governing board of the respective district.

2.  Florida Indian River Lagoon license plate annual use fees may not be used for administrative salaries or overhead within the water management districts, nor for any general coordination fees or overhead outside of the districts which is not specifically related to a project, nor for any projects which are considered to be research, studies, inventories, or evaluations, nor for administrative salaries or overhead related to environmental education or ongoing regular maintenance. Annual use fees may be used for acquisition of rights-of-way specific to the implementation of restoration or improvement projects, if acquisition expenditures do not exceed 20 percent of a county's appropriation.

3.  In Volusia County, project implementation may occur in all estuarine waters extending north to and including the Tomoka Basin.

4.  In Palm Beach County, first priority must be given to projects within the Indian River Lagoon. Second priority must be given to projects within adjacent estuarine waters.

(d)  It is the intent of the Legislature that revenues generated by the Florida Indian River Lagoon license plate annual use fees must not be used as replacement funds for Surface Water Improvement and Management Act funds, but must be used solely for the enhancement of the Indian River Lagoon area.

(11)  INVEST IN CHILDREN LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall develop an Invest in Children license plate. Invest in Children license plates must bear the colors and design approved by the department. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Invest in Children" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The proceeds of the Invest in Children license plate annual use fee must be deposited into the Juvenile Crime Prevention and Early Intervention Trust Fund within the Department of Juvenile Justice. Based on the recommendations of the juvenile justice councils, the department shall use the proceeds of the fee to fund programs and services that are designed to prevent juvenile delinquency. The department shall allocate moneys for programs and services within each county based on that county's proportionate share of the license plate annual use fee collected by the county.

(12)  FLORIDA ARTS LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall develop a Florida arts license plate as provided in this section. In small letters, the word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the word "Art" or "Arts" or a combination of words including the word "Art" or "Arts" may appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The license plate annual use fees are to be annually distributed as follows:

1.  All fees collected must be forwarded quarterly to the Division of Cultural Affairs of the Department of State, together with a report setting forth the amount of such fees collected in each county, and must be deposited into the Florida Fine Arts Trust Fund.

2.  The Division of Cultural Affairs shall distribute the fees forwarded to it by the department to the counties in the amounts set forth in the report required under subparagraph 1., in each case to the county arts council for such county or, if there is none, to such other agency in the county as the division designates, to be applied by the council or agency to support art organizations, programs, and activities within the county.

(c)  The Division of Cultural Affairs shall have the authority to administer this subsection under rules established by the Division of Cultural Affairs. The agency may adopt only rules that implement, interpret, or make specific the particular powers and duties granted by this subsection.

(13)  BETHUNE-COOKMAN COLLEGE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Bethune-Cookman College license plate to commemorate Bethune-Cookman College.

(b)  The annual use fees must be distributed to Bethune-Cookman College.

(14)  FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall develop a Florida Agricultural license plate. Florida Agricultural license plates must bear the colors and design approved by the department. The word "Agriculture" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Keeps Florida Green" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The proceeds of the Florida Agricultural license plate annual use fee must be forwarded to the direct-support organization created in s. 570.912. The funds must be used for the sole purpose of funding and promoting the Florida agriculture in the classroom program established within the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services pursuant to s. 570.91.

(15)  GIRL SCOUT LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Girl Scout license plate as provided in this section to commemorate the Girl Scout councils in this state. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "For Her Future" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Citrus Council of Girl Scouts, Inc., which shall distribute funds to the following Girl Scout councils equal to the annual use fees received from counties served by each council:

1.  Citrus Council of Girl Scouts, Inc.

2.  Gateway Girl Scout Council, Inc.

3.  Girl Scouts of Broward County, Inc.

4.  Girl Scout Council of Tropical Florida, Inc.

5.  Heart of Florida Girl Scout Council, Inc.

6.  Palm Glades Girl Scout Council, Inc.

7.  Suncoast Girl Scout Council, Inc.

Funds collected in counties not served by one of the above councils shall be used by the Citrus Council of Girl Scouts, Inc., to reimburse expenditures made on behalf of other councils to comply with s. 320.08053. Once those expenditures have been reimbursed, the funds shall be distributed to the Girl Scout councils serving those counties in the same manner as funds are distributed to the listed councils.

(16)  POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Police Athletic League license plate as provided in this section to commemorate the Police Athletic League in this state. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, the words "Police Athletic League" must appear at the bottom of the plate, and a shield with the Police Athletic League logo must appear to the left of the numerals.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Florida Police Athletic League, Inc., to provide educational materials, athletic equipment, transportation, food, medical checkups, counseling, scholarships, and other direct expenses incurred by the league in conducting its youth programs.

(17)  BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall develop a Boy Scouts of America license plate. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Scouting Teaches Values" must appear at the bottom of the plate. The license plate must contain the official Boy Scouts of America logo, the fleur-de-lis, in the center of the plate.

(b)1.  The Central Florida Council is the lead Boy Scout council on behalf of the nine councils in this state. The proceeds from the annual use fee must be sent to the Central Florida Council together with statistics on sales of the license plates which are tabulated by county. The Central Florida Council must distribute to each of the nine councils the moneys received from sales in the counties within the respective council.

2.  The Boy Scouts of America license plate annual use fee may be used by the councils for basic administrative expenses, office and professional services, year-round camping facilities, the recruitment of adult leaders and their continuing training, the maintenance of current facilities, and the continuing promotion and marketing of the license plate.

(18)  LARGEMOUTH BASS LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Largemouth Bass license plate as provided in this section to commemorate the official freshwater fish of this state. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, the words "Go Fishing" must appear at the bottom of the plate, and a representation of a largemouth bass must appear to the left of the numerals.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the State Game Trust Fund and used by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to fund current conservation programs that maintain current levels of protection and management of this state's fish and wildlife resources, including providing hunting, fishing, and nonconsumptive wildlife opportunities.

(19)  SEA TURTLE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Sea Turtle license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, the words "Helping Sea Turtles Survive" must appear at the bottom of the plate, and the image of a sea turtle must appear in the center of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund in the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The first $500,000 in annual revenue shall be used by the Florida Marine Turtle Protection Program to conduct sea turtle protection, research, and recovery programs. Additional license plate revenue, up to an amount not exceeding 30 percent of the total annual revenue, shall be dispersed annually through the marine turtle grants program as provided in s. 370.12(1)(h). The remaining annual use proceeds shall be used by the Florida Marine Turtle Protection Program for sea turtle conservation activities.

(20)  PROTECT WILD DOLPHINS LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Protect Wild Dolphins license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Protect Wild Dolphins" may appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Inc., to fund wild dolphins related research. The Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Inc., shall distribute available resources for research of the wild Florida Bottlenose Dolphin. Up to 15 percent of the funds received by Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Inc., may be expended for administrative costs directly associated with the operations of the institution. Up to 10 percent of the funds distributed may be used by Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Inc., for continuing promotion and marketing of the license plate. The remainder of the funds must be used to collect, analyze, and archive scientific data regarding the wild dolphin population in Florida waters; provide care and assistance to stranded wild dolphins; distribute information to the scientific community, federal, state, and local government agencies, educational institutions, and the public for the purpose of protecting and preserving wild dolphins; individually identify wild dolphins through a photographic identification program; and advance the research technology associated with tracking and categorizing wild dolphins.

(c)  The Auditor General may examine any records of the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, Inc., and any other organization that receives funds from the sale of this plate, to determine compliance with law.

(21)  BARRY UNIVERSITY LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Barry University license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Barry University" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Barry University Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund.

(22)  EVERGLADES RIVER OF GRASS LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop an Everglades River of Grass license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Everglades River of Grass" must appear at the bottom of the plate. A roseate spoonbill bird standing beside mangroves must appear on the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Everglades Trust Fund established by s. 17, Art. X of the State Constitution and administered by the South Florida Water Management District and used for the conservation and protection of the natural resources and abatement of water pollution in the Everglades. The funds must be used for Everglades conservation and restoration projects in accordance with state contracting and purchasing procedures with the following restrictions:

1.  Fifty percent of the fees must be used for Everglades research.

2.  The fees may not be used for administrative salaries or other overhead within the district or for any general coordination fees or overhead expenses out of the district.

3.  Revenues generated by these fees may not be used as replacement funds for Surface Water Improvement and Management Act funds or Everglades Forever Act Funds.

(23)  KEEP KIDS DRUG-FREE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Keep Kids Drug-Free license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Keep Kids Drug-Free" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Keep Kids Drug-Free Foundation, Inc., which shall use the fees to fund activities to reduce substance abuse among residents of this state. The foundation shall develop a plan to distribute the funds for drug-abuse prevention programs.

(24)  FLORIDA SHERIFFS YOUTH RANCHES LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Sponsored by the Florida Sheriffs Association" must appear at the bottom of the plate. The Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches logo must appear on the left quarter of the plate, surrounded by the words "Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches" and the words "Preventing delinquency since 1957" must appear below the numerals on the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches, Inc., for its operations.

(25)  CONSERVE WILDLIFE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Conserve Wildlife license plate. Conserve Wildlife license plates shall bear the colors and design approved by the department. The word "Florida" shall appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Conserve Wildlife" shall appear at the bottom of the plate. The plate design shall include the likeness of a Florida black bear.

(b)  The proceeds of the Conserve Wildlife license plate annual use fee shall be forwarded to the Wildlife Foundation of Florida, Inc., a citizen support organization created pursuant to s. 372.0215.

1.  Notwithstanding s. 320.08062, up to 10 percent of the proceeds from the annual use fee may be used for marketing the Conserve Wildlife license plate and administrative costs directly related to the management and distribution of the proceeds.

2.  The remaining proceeds from the annual use fee shall be used for programs and activities of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that contribute to the health and well-being of Florida black bears and other wildlife diversity.

(26)  FLORIDA MEMORIAL COLLEGE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Florida Memorial College license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Florida Memorial College" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to Florida Memorial College.

(27)  TAMPA BAY ESTUARY LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Tampa Bay Estuary license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, the words "Tampa Bay Estuary" must appear at the bottom of the plate, and the image of a tarpon must appear on the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Tampa Bay Estuary Program created by s. 163.01.

1.  A maximum of 5 percent of such fees may be used for marketing the plate.

2.  Twenty percent of the proceeds from the annual use fee, not to exceed $50,000, shall be provided to the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council for activities of the Agency on Bay Management implementing the Council/Agency Action Plan for the restoration of the Tampa Bay estuary, as approved by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program Policy Board.

3.  The remaining proceeds must be used to implement the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan for Tampa Bay, pursuant to priorities approved by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program Policy Board.

(28)  FLORIDA WILDFLOWER LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Florida Wildflower license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "State Wildflower" and "coreopsis" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to the Wildflower Account established by Keep Florida Beautiful, Inc., created by s. 403.4131. The proceeds must be used to establish native Florida wildflower research programs, wildflower educational programs, and wildflower grant programs to municipal, county, and community-based groups in this state. A maximum of 10 percent of the proceeds from the sale of such plates may be used for administrative costs.

(29)  UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a United States Marine Corps license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top center of the plate, and the words "Marine Corps" must appear at the bottom center of the plate. The United States Marine Corps logo, 3 inches in diameter, must appear on the left side centered top to bottom of the plate in proper colors.

(b)  The department shall distribute the United States Marine Corps license plate annual use fees in the following manner:

1.  The first $50,000 collected annually shall be deposited in the State Homes for Veterans Trust Fund and must be used solely for the purpose of constructing, operating, and maintaining domiciliary and nursing homes for veterans subject to the requirements of chapter 216.

2.  Any additional fees collected annually shall be deposited in the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, Inc., successor to the USMC Tag/Scholarship Fund, Inc., which shall use the fees to fund scholarships and assist Marine Corps Junior ROTC and Young Marine programs of this state. The foundation shall develop a plan to distribute the funds to recipients nominated by residents of the state to receive scholarships, and to the Marine Corps Junior ROTC and Young Marine programs in the state.

(30)  CHOOSE LIFE LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Choose Life license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the bottom of the plate, and the words "Choose Life" must appear at the top of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed annually to each county in the ratio that the annual use fees collected by each county bears to the total fees collected for the plates within the state. Each county shall distribute the funds to nongovernmental, not-for-profit agencies within the county, which agencies' services are limited to counseling and meeting the physical needs of pregnant women who are committed to placing their children for adoption. Funds may not be distributed to any agency that is involved or associated with abortion activities, including counseling for or referrals to abortion clinics, providing medical abortion-related procedures, or proabortion advertising, and funds may not be distributed to any agency that charges women for services received.

1.  Agencies that receive the funds must use at least 70 percent of the funds to provide for the material needs of pregnant women who are committed to placing their children for adoption, including clothing, housing, medical care, food, utilities, and transportation. Such funds may also be expended on infants awaiting placement with adoptive parents.

2.  The remaining funds may be used for adoption, counseling, training, or advertising, but may not be used for administrative expenses, legal expenses, or capital expenditures.

3.  Each agency that receives such funds must submit an annual audit, prepared by a certified public accountant, to the county. The county may conduct a consolidated audit in lieu of the annual audit. Any unused funds that exceed 10 percent of the funds received by an agency during its fiscal year must be returned to the county, which shall distribute them to other qualified agencies.

(31)  SHARE THE ROAD LICENSE PLATES.--

(a)  The department shall develop a Share the Road license plate as provided in this section. The word "Florida" must appear at the top of the plate, and the words "Share the Road" must appear at the bottom of the plate.

(b)  The annual use fees shall be distributed to Bike Florida, Inc., up to 25 percent of which shall be used for marketing and promotion of the "Share the Road" concept and license plate. The remaining funds shall be divided equally between Bike Florida, Inc., and the Florida Bicycle Association, Inc., to be used for:

1.  Education and awareness programs, for bicycle safety and motorist safety, with emphasis on sharing the roadway by all users.

2.  Training, workshops, educational materials, and media events.

3.  The promotion of safe bicycling.

History.--s. 3, ch. 95-282; s. 2, ch. 96-160; s. 2, ch. 96-161; s. 2, ch. 96-162; s. 2, ch. 96-163; s. 2, ch. 96-164; s. 2, ch. 96-165; s. 135, ch. 96-320; s. 15, ch. 96-321; s. 50, ch. 97-100; s. 1, ch. 97-252; s. 2, ch. 97-272; s. 28, ch. 97-300; s. 2, ch. 98-67; s. 2, ch. 98-72; s. 2, ch. 98-74; s. 2, ch. 98-76; s. 2, ch. 98-77; s. 2, ch. 98-181; s. 7, ch. 98-414; ss. 100, 101, ch. 99-13; s. 2, ch. 99-191; ss. 16, 17, 88, ch. 99-245; ss. 26, 27, 269, ch. 99-248; s. 8, ch. 99-251; s. 2, ch. 99-268; s. 2, ch. 99-294; s. 2, ch. 99-295; s. 2, ch. 99-301; s. 2, ch. 99-302; s. 29, ch. 2000-313; s. 2, ch. 2000-358; s. 1, ch. 2000-362.

320.08062  Audits required; annual use fees of specialty license plates.--

(1)(a)  All organizations that receive annual use fee proceeds from the department are responsible for ensuring that proceeds are used in accordance with ss. 320.08056 and 320.08058.

(b)  All organizational recipients of any specialty license plate annual use fee authorized in this chapter, not otherwise subject to annual audit by the Office of the Auditor General, shall submit an annual audit of the expenditures of annual use fees and interest earned from these fees, to determine if expenditures are being made in accordance with the specifications outlined by law. The audit shall be prepared by a certified public accountant licensed under chapter 473 at that organizational recipient's expense. The notes to the financial statements should state whether expenditures were made in accordance with ss. 320.08056 and 320.08058.

(c)  In lieu of an annual audit, any organization receiving less than $25,000 in annual use fee proceeds directly from the department, or from another state agency, may annually report, under penalties of perjury, that such proceeds were used in compliance with ss. 320.08056 and 320.08058. The attestation shall be made annually in a form and format determined by the department.

(d)  The annual audit or report shall be submitted to the department for review within 180 days after the end of the organization's fiscal year.

(2)  Within 90 days after receiving an organization's audit or report, the department shall determine which recipients of revenues from specialty license plate annual use fees have not complied with subsection (1). If the department determines that an organization has not complied or has failed to use the revenues in accordance with ss. 320.08056 and 320.08058, the department must discontinue the distribution of the revenues to the organization until the department determines that the organization has complied. If an organization fails to comply within 12 months after the annual use fee proceeds are withheld by the department, the proceeds shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund to offset department costs related to the issuance of specialty license plates.

(3)  The Auditor General and the department have the authority to examine all records pertaining to the use of funds from the sale of specialty license plates.

History.--s. 5, ch. 90-194; s. 7, ch. 95-282; s. 3, ch. 98-414; s. 270, ch. 99-248.

320.0807  Special license plates for Governor and federal and state legislators.--

(1)  Upon application by any member of the House of Representatives of Congress and payment of the fees prescribed by s. 320.0805, the department is authorized to issue to such Member of Congress a license plate stamped "Member of Congress" followed by the number of the appropriate congressional district. Upon application by a United States Senator and payment of the fees prescribed by s. 320.0805, the department is authorized to issue a license plate stamped "USS," followed by the numeral II in the case of the junior senator.

(2)  Upon application by any member of the state House of Representatives and payment of the fees prescribed by s. 320.0805, the department is authorized to issue such state representative license plates stamped in bold letters "State Legislator," followed by the number of the appropriate House of Representatives district on one plate; the numbers of the other plates will be assigned by the department. Upon application by a state senator and payment of the fees prescribed by s. 320.0805, the department is authorized to issue license plates stamped in bold letters "State Senator," followed by the number of the appropriate Senate district on one plate; the numbers of the other plates will be assigned by the department.

(3)  Upon application by the Governor and payment of the appropriate fees, the department is authorized to issue to the Governor two license plates stamped in bold letters "Florida 1" and "Florida 2."

(4)  License plates purchased under subsection (1), subsection (2), or subsection (3) shall be replaced by the department at no cost, other than the fees required by ss. 320.04 and 320.06(3)(b), when the person to whom such plates have been issued leaves the elective office with respect to which such license plates were issued. Within 30 days after leaving office, the person to whom such license plates have been issued shall make application to the department for a replacement license plate. Such person may return the prestige license plates to the department or may retain such plates as souvenirs. Upon receipt of the replacement license plate, such person shall not continue to display on any vehicle the prestige license plate or plates issued with respect to his or her former office.

(5)  Any person who does not make application for a replacement license plate as required by subsection (4), or who, after receipt of the replacement license plate, continues to display on any vehicle the prestige license plate or plates issued with respect to his or her former office, is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 24, ch. 83-318; s. 1, ch. 84-108; s. 7, ch. 87-225; s. 353, ch. 95-148; s. 12, ch. 97-96.

320.081  Collection and distribution of annual license tax imposed on the following type units.--

(1)  The provisions of this section shall apply to all mobile homes and park trailers, and to all travel trailers and fifth-wheel trailers exceeding 35 feet in body length.

(2)  The annual license tax prescribed in s. 320.08(10) and (11) is in lieu of ad valorem taxes, and a sticker, as appropriate, shall be issued to evidence payment thereof. It is permissible in this state to transport units governed by this section, registered hereunder, without a corresponding state license plate on the towing vehicle.

(3)  The owner shall make application for such sticker in the manner provided in s. 320.02, and the tax collectors in the several counties of the state shall collect the license taxes imposed by s. 320.08(10) and (11) in the same manner and under the same conditions and requirements as provided in s. 320.03.

(4)  Each tax collector shall make prompt remittance of all moneys collected by him or her to the department at such times and in such manner as provided by law. Upon receipt of the license taxes collected from the tax collectors of the several counties, the department shall pay into the State Treasury for deposit in the General Revenue Fund the sum of $1.50 on each such sticker issued. The balance remaining shall be paid into a trust fund in the State Treasury designated "License Tax Collection Trust Fund," and the moneys so deposited shall be paid to the respective counties and cities wherein such units governed by the provisions of this section are located, regardless of where the license taxes are collected, in the manner hereinafter provided.

(5)  The department shall keep records showing the total number of stickers issued to each type unit governed by this section, the total amount of license taxes collected, and the county or city wherein each such unit is located and shall from month to month certify to the Comptroller the amount derived from license taxes in each county and each city within the county. Such amount, less the amount of $1.50 collected on each license, shall be paid to the counties and cities within the counties wherein the unit or units are located as follows: one-half to the district school board and the remainder either to the board of county commissioners, for units which are located within the unincorporated areas of the county, or to any city within such county, for units which are located within its corporate limits. Payment shall be by warrant drawn by the Comptroller upon the treasury, which amount is hereby appropriated monthly out of the License Tax Collection Trust Fund.

History.--ss. 1-3, ch. 23969, 1947; s. 2, ch. 63-528; s. 6, ch. 65-190; s. 2, ch. 65-446; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 69-300; s. 4, ch. 72-339; s. 17, ch. 72-360; ss. 1, 2, ch. 73-342; s. 93, ch. 77-104; s. 12, ch. 77-357; s. 5, ch. 78-207; s. 25, ch. 83-318; s. 6, ch. 85-343; s. 41, ch. 94-306; s. 914, ch. 95-148.

320.0815  Mobile homes and recreational vehicle-type units required to have appropriate license plates or stickers.--

(1)  Recreational vehicle-type units taxed under s. 320.08(9) and (10) shall be issued appropriate license plates, except as provided in subsection (2).

(2)  A mobile home or recreational vehicle-type unit which is permanently affixed to the land shall be issued a mobile home sticker at the fee prescribed in s. 320.08(11) unless the mobile home or recreational vehicle-type unit is qualified and taxed as real property, in which case the mobile home or recreational vehicle-type unit shall be issued an "RP" series sticker. Series "RP" stickers shall be provided by the department to the tax collectors, and such a sticker will be issued by the tax collector to the registered owner of such a mobile home or recreational vehicle-type unit upon the production of a certificate of the respective property appraiser that such mobile home or recreational vehicle-type unit is included in an assessment of the property of such registered owner for ad valorem taxation. An "RP" series sticker shall be issued by the tax collector for an aggregate fee of $3 each, to be distributed as follows: $2.50 shall be retained by the tax collector as a service charge; 25 cents shall be remitted to the property appraiser; and 25 cents shall be remitted to the department to defray the cost of manufacture and handling. Mobile home stickers and "RP" series stickers shall be of a size to be determined by the department. A mobile home sticker or "RP" series sticker shall be affixed to the lower left corner of the window closest to the street or road providing access to such residence.

History.--s. 3, ch. 70-391; s. 5, ch. 72-339; s. 1, ch. 77-102; s. 94, ch. 77-104; s. 13, ch. 77-357; s. 6, ch. 78-207; s. 26, ch. 83-318; s. 4, ch. 85-324; s. 39, ch. 96-413.

320.0821  Wrecker license plates.--

(1)  The department shall issue a wrecker license plate to the owner of any motor vehicle that is used to tow, carry, or otherwise transport motor vehicles and that is equipped for that purpose with a boom, winch, carrier, or other similar equipment, except a motor vehicle registered under the International Registration Plan, upon application and payment of the appropriate license tax and fees in accordance with s. 320.08(5)(d) or (e).

(2)  A license plate issued under this section shall have the word "Wrecker" imprinted on the bottom of the plate in place of the county name.

(3)  Any license plate issued under s. 320.08(5)(e) shall be in a distinctive color approved by the department.

(4)  For any license plate issued under this section to any wrecker, when the combined gross vehicle weight of the wrecker and any towed vehicle or vehicles is 55,000 pounds or more, at the time of registration or renewal of registration, every owner or person in charge of such wrecker shall present proof of filing or proof of payment, as applicable, of the federal heavy vehicle use tax in accordance with s. 320.02(7).

History.--s. 6, ch. 97-58.

320.083  Amateur radio operators; special license plates; fees.--

(1)  A person who is the owner or lessee of an automobile for private use, a truck weighing not more than 5,000 pounds, or a recreational vehicle as specified in s. 320.08(9)(c) or (d), which is not used for hire or commercial use; who is a resident of the state; and who holds a valid official amateur radio station license issued by the Federal Communications Commission shall be issued a special license plate upon application, accompanied by proof of ownership of such radio station license, and payment of the following tax and fees:

(a)  The license tax required for the vehicle, as prescribed by s. 320.08(2), (3)(a), (b), or (c), or (9); and

(b)  An initial additional fee of $5, and an additional fee of $1.50 thereafter.

(2)  The license plate issued shall meet the requirements of s. 320.06, except that, in lieu of the numbers as prescribed by s. 320.06, it shall be inscribed with the official amateur radio call letters of the applicant, as assigned by the Federal Communications Commission, including as a prefix, when applicable, those call letters assigned by the Armed Services of the United States of America, not to exceed eight characters. In lieu of the name of the county or the designation "Sunshine State" on the bottom of the plate as prescribed in s. 320.06, the words "Amateur Radio" shall be inscribed.

(3)  All applications for such plates shall be made to the department.

History.--ss. 1-4, ch. 25049, 1949; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 72-379; s. 2, ch. 77-68; s. 14, ch. 77-357; ss. 1, 2, ch. 80-267; s. 27, ch. 83-318; s. 58, ch. 94-306; s. 28, ch. 99-248.

320.084  Free motor vehicle license plate to certain disabled veterans.--

(1)  One free motor vehicle license number plate shall be issued by the department for use on any motor vehicle owned or leased by any disabled veteran who has been a resident of this state continuously for the preceding 5 years or has established a domicile in this state as provided by s. 222.17(1), (2), or (3), and who has been honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces, upon application, accompanied by proof that:

(a)  A vehicle was initially acquired through financial assistance by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor specifically for the purchase of an automobile;

(b)  The applicant has been determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor to have a service-connected 100-percent disability rating for compensation; or

(c)  The applicant has been determined to have a service-connected disability rating of 100 percent and is in receipt of disability retirement pay from any branch of the United States Armed Services.

(2)  The production by a veteran of a valid identification card issued by the Department of Veterans' Affairs in accordance with s. 295.17 or a letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor or any branch of the uniformed Armed Services certifying a service-connected disability rating of 100 percent for the veteran is prima facie evidence of the veteran's eligibility for the benefits contained in subsection (1).

(3)  The department shall, as it deems necessary, require each person to whom a motor vehicle license plate has been issued pursuant to subsection (1) to apply to the department for reissuance of his or her registration license plate. Upon receipt of the application and proof of the applicant's continued eligibility, the department shall issue a new permanent "DV" numerical motor vehicle license plate which shall be of the colors red, white, and blue similar to the colors of the United States flag. The operation of a motor vehicle displaying a "DV" license plate from a previous issue period or a noncurrent validation sticker after the date specified by the department shall subject the owner if he or she is present, otherwise the operator, to the penalty provided in s. 318.18(2). Such permanent license plate shall be removed upon sale of the vehicle, but may be transferred to another vehicle owned by such veteran in the manner prescribed by law. The license number of each plate issued under this section shall be identified by the letter designation "DV." Upon request of any such veteran, the department is authorized to issue a designation plate containing only the letters "DV," to be displayed on the front of the vehicle.

(4)(a)  With the issuance of each new permanent "DV" numerical motor vehicle license plate, the department shall initially issue, without cost to the applicant, a validation sticker reflecting the owner's birth month and a serially numbered validation sticker reflecting the year of expiration. The initial sticker reflecting the year of expiration may not exceed 15 months.

(b)  There shall be a service charge in accordance with the provisions of s. 320.04 for each initial application or renewal of registration and an additional sum of 50 cents on each license plate and validation sticker as provided in s. 320.06(3)(b).

(c)  Registration under this section shall be renewed annually during the applicable renewal period on forms prescribed by the department, which shall include, in addition to any other information required by the department, a certified statement as to the continued eligibility of the applicant to receive the special "DV" license plate. Any applicant who falsely or fraudulently submits to the department the certified statement required by this paragraph is guilty of a noncriminal violation and is subject to a civil penalty of $50.

(5)  A county or municipality, or any agency thereof, may not impose upon any person who is issued a license plate with the international accessibility symbol, under this section, any fee or penalty for parking in any metered or timed parking space except:

(a)  As provided in s. 316.1964; or

(b)  When the person is parked without a permit issued under s. 320.0848 in a space designated for use by persons who have disabilities.

History.--s. 1, ch. 26839, 1951; s. 7, ch. 28186, 1953; s. 3, ch. 57-266; s. 1, ch. 59-104; s. 1, ch. 63-277; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 1, 2, ch. 67-47; s. 1, ch. 67-420; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 69-269; s. 92, ch. 71-355; s. 3, ch. 77-68; s. 16, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 79-208; s. 1, ch. 80-306; s. 5, ch. 83-71; s. 28, ch. 83-318; s. 3, ch. 85-63; s. 27, ch. 88-290; s. 11, ch. 93-268; s. 354, ch. 95-148; s. 10, ch. 96-200; s. 29, ch. 99-248.

320.0841  Free motor vehicle license plates to members of Seminole and Miccosukee Indian Tribes.--

(1)  The department shall issue each year, free of charge to any state agency or individual, a sufficient number of motor vehicle license plates for use on vehicles owned and operated by members of the Seminole and Miccosukee Indian Tribes. The allocation for any year may be increased by an amount equal to up to 10 percent of the allocation for the previous year. Any request for such increase shall be accompanied by formal certification of the need therefor by the Seminole and Miccosukee Tribal Councils.

(2)  The department shall provide an appropriate application form and procedures for request and issuance of the license plates.

History.--ss. 1, 2, ch. 71-302; s. 17, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 78-232; ss. 29, 57, ch. 83-318; s. 1, ch. 85-190.

320.0842  Free motor vehicle license plates to veterans who use wheelchairs.--

(1)  Upon application by any person who owns or leases a motor vehicle and who is qualified under subsection (2), the department shall issue to such person a free motor vehicle license plate, similar in all respects to the plate issued under s. 320.084, with the exception that the designation "DV" is replaced by the international symbol of accessibility. The international symbol of accessibility is as follows:

(2)  In order to be eligible for the motor vehicle license plate described in subsection (1), a person must comply with the following provisions:

(a)  The veteran must be eligible for the license plate issued under s. 320.084 and must apply for the license plate issued under this section in lieu of or in exchange for the motor vehicle license number plate authorized by s. 320.084; and

(b)  The veteran must offer, in addition to the proof required by s. 320.084(1), proof that due to a service-connected disability he or she permanently uses a wheelchair or proof, in the form of an application that conforms to the requirements set forth in s. 320.0848, that he or she qualifies for a disabled parking permit under that section. The license plate entitles the person to all privileges afforded by a parking permit issued under s. 320.0848.

(3)  Upon request, the department shall issue, to a person who has received a motor vehicle license plate under subsection (2), a designation plate containing only the international symbol of accessibility, to be displayed on the front of a vehicle.

(4)  Section 320.084(3) and (4) applies to license plates issued under this section.

History.--s. 1, ch. 72-31; s. 2, ch. 74-202; s. 5, ch. 79-82; s. 2, ch. 79-208; s. 30, ch. 83-318; s. 355, ch. 95-148; s. 11, ch. 96-200; s. 5, ch. 98-202.

320.0843  License plates for persons with disabilities eligible for permanent disabled parking permits.--

(1)  Any owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who resides in this state and qualifies for a disabled parking permit under s. 320.0848(2), upon application to the department and payment of the license tax for a motor vehicle registered under s. 320.08(2), (3)(a), (b), (c), or (e), (4)(a) or (b), (6)(a), or (9)(c) or (d), shall be issued a license plate as provided by s. 320.06 which, in lieu of the serial number prescribed by s. 320.06, shall be stamped with the international wheelchair user symbol after the serial number of the license plate. The license plate entitles the person to all privileges afforded by a parking permit issued under s. 320.0848.

(2)  All applications for such license plates must be made to the department.

History.--s. 1, ch. 74-30; s. 4, ch. 77-68; s. 4, ch. 77-83; s. 6, ch. 79-82; s. 66, ch. 79-164; s. 31, ch. 83-318; s. 29, ch. 87-198; s. 6, ch. 98-202.

320.0845  License plates for members of Paralyzed Veterans of America.--

(1)  Any owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who resides in this state and is a member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, upon application and payment of the appropriate license tax and fees accompanied by proof of such membership, shall be issued a motor vehicle license plate, as provided in s. 320.06, which shall be imprinted with the name of said organization to the extent that space permits on the license plate with the serial letters prescribed by s. 320.06(1)(a).

(2)  All applications for such license plates shall be made to the department.

History.--s. 1, ch. 87-160.

320.0848  Persons who have disabilities; issuance of disabled parking permits; temporary permits; permits for certain providers of transportation services to persons who have disabilities.--

(1)(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles or its authorized agents shall, upon application and receipt of the fee, issue a disabled parking permit for a period of up to 4 years, which period ends on the applicant's birthday, to any person who has long-term mobility impairment, or a temporary disabled parking permit not to exceed 1 year to any person who has a temporary mobility impairment.

(b)1.  The person must be currently certified as being legally blind or as having any of the following disabilities that render him or her unable to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest:

a.  Inability to walk without the use of or assistance from a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, or other assistive device, or without the assistance of another person. If the assistive device significantly restores the person's ability to walk to the extent that the person can walk without severe limitation, the person is not eligible for the exemption parking permit.

b.  The need to permanently use a wheelchair.

c.  Restriction by lung disease to the extent that the person's forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for 1 second, when measured by spirometry, is less than 1 liter, or the person's arterial oxygen is less than 60 mm/hg on room air at rest.

d.  Use of portable oxygen.

e.  Restriction by cardiac condition to the extent that the person's functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to standards set by the American Heart Association.

f.  Severe limitation in the person's ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.

2.  The certification of disability which is required under subparagraph 1. must be provided by a physician licensed under chapter 458, chapter 459, or chapter 460, by a podiatric physician licensed under chapter 461, by an optometrist licensed under chapter 463, by the Adjudication Office of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor, or by a similarly licensed physician from another state if the application is accompanied by documentation of the physician's licensure in the other state and a form signed by the out-of-state physician verifying his or her knowledge of this state's eligibility guidelines.

(c)  The certificate of disability must include, but need not be limited to:

1.  The disability of the applicant; the certifying physician's name and address; the physician's certification number; the eligibility criteria for the permit; the penalty for falsification by either the certifying physician or the applicant; the duration of the condition that entitles the person to the permit; and justification for the additional placard pursuant to subsection (2).

2.  The statement, in bold letters: "A disabled parking permit may be issued only for a medical necessity that severely affects mobility."

3.  The signatures of:

a.  The applicant's physician;

b.  The applicant or the applicant's parent or guardian; and

c.  The employee of the department's authorized agent which employee is processing the application.

(d)  Beginning April 1, 1999, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall renew the disabled parking permit of any person certified as permanently disabled on the application.

(e)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall, in consultation with the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged, adopt rules, in accordance with chapter 120, for the issuance of a disabled parking permit to any organization that can adequately demonstrate a bona fide need for such a permit because the organization provides regular transportation services to persons who have disabilities and are certified as provided in this subsection.

(2)  DISABLED PARKING PERMIT; PERSONS WITH LONG-TERM MOBILITY PROBLEMS.--

(a)  The disabled parking permit is a placard that can be placed in a motor vehicle so as to be visible from the front and rear of the vehicle. Each side of the placard must have the international symbol of accessibility in a contrasting color in the center so as to be visible. One side of the placard must display the applicant's driver's license number or state identification card number along with a warning that the applicant must have such identification at all times while using the parking permit. A validation sticker must also be issued with each disabled parking permit, showing the month and year of expiration on each side of the placard. Validation stickers must be of the size specified by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and must be affixed to the disabled parking permits. The disabled parking permits must use the same colors as license plate validations.

(b)  License plates issued under ss. 320.084, 320.0842, 320.0843, and 320.0845 are valid for the same parking privileges and other privileges provided under ss. 316.1955, 316.1964, and 526.141(5)(a).

(c)1.  Except as provided in subparagraph 2., the fee for a disabled parking permit shall be:

a.  Fifteen dollars for each initial 4-year permit or renewal permit, of which the State Transportation Trust Fund shall receive $13.50 and the tax collector of the county in which the fee was collected shall receive $1.50.

b.  One dollar for each additional or additional renewal 4-year permit, of which the State Transportation Trust Fund shall receive all funds collected.

The department shall not issue an additional disabled parking permit unless the applicant states that they are a frequent traveler or a quadriplegic. The department may not issue to any one eligible applicant more than two disabled parking permits except to an organization in accordance with paragraph (1)(e). Subsections (1), (5), (6), and (7) apply to this subsection.

2.  If an applicant who is a disabled veteran, is a resident of this state, has been honorably discharged, and either has been determined by the Department of Defense or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor to have a service-connected disability rating for compensation of 50 percent or greater or has been determined to have a service-connected disability rating of 50 percent or greater and is in receipt of both disability retirement pay from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and has a signed physician's statement of qualification for the disabled parking permits, the fee for a disabled parking permit shall be:

a.  One dollar and fifty cents for the initial 4-year permit or renewal permit.

b.  One dollar for each additional or additional renewal 4-year permit.

The tax collector of the county in which the fee was collected shall retain all funds received pursuant to this subparagraph.

3.  If an applicant presents to the department a statement from the Federal Government or the State of Florida indicating the applicant is a recipient of supplemental security income, the fee for the disabled parking permit shall be $9 for the initial 4-year permit or renewal permit, of which the State Transportation Trust Fund shall receive $6.75 and the tax collector of the county in which the fee was collected shall receive $2.25.

(d)  To obtain a replacement for a disabled parking permit that has been lost or stolen, a person must submit an application on a form prescribed by the department and must pay a replacement fee in the amount of $1.00, to be retained by the issuing agency. If the person submits with the application a police report documenting that the permit was stolen, there is no replacement fee.

(e)  A person who qualifies for a disabled parking permit under this section may be issued an international wheelchair user symbol license plate under s. 320.0843 in lieu of the disabled parking permit; or, if the person qualifies for a "DV" license plate under s. 320.084, such a license plate may be issued to him or her in lieu of a disabled parking permit.

(3)  DISABLED PARKING PERMIT; TEMPORARY.--

(a)  The temporary disabled parking permit is a placard of a different color from the color of the long-term disabled parking permit placard, and must clearly display the date of expiration in large print and with color coding, but is identical to the long-term disabled parking permit placard in all other respects, including, but not limited to, the inclusion of a state identification card number or driver's license number on one side of the temporary permit. The temporary disabled parking permit placard must be designed to conspicuously display the expiration date of the permit on the front and back of the placard.

(b)  The department shall issue the temporary disabled parking permit for the period of the disability as stated by the certifying physician, but not to exceed 1 year.

(c)  The fee for a temporary disabled parking permit is $15.

(4)  From the proceeds of the temporary disabled parking permit fees:

(a)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles must receive $3.50 for each temporary permit, to be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund and used for implementing the real-time disabled parking permit database and for administering the disabled parking permit program.

(b)  The tax collector, for processing, must receive $2.50 for each temporary permit.

(c)  The remainder must be distributed monthly as follows:

1.  To the Florida Governor's Alliance for the Employment of Disabled Citizens for the purpose of improving employment and training opportunities for persons who have disabilities, with special emphasis on removing transportation barriers, $4. These fees must be deposited into the Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund for transfer to the Florida Governor's Alliance for Employment of Disabled Citizens.

2.  To the Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund to be used for funding matching grants to counties for the purpose of improving transportation of persons who have disabilities, $5.

(5)  The applications for disabled parking permits and temporary disabled parking permits are official state documents. The following statement must appear on each application form immediately below the physician's signature and immediately below the applicant's signature: "Knowingly providing false information on this application is a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, Florida Statutes, or s. 775.083, Florida Statutes. The penalty is up to 1 year in jail or a fine of $1,000, or both."

(6)  Any person who knowingly makes a false or misleading statement in an application or certification under this section commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(7)  Any person who fraudulently obtains or unlawfully displays a disabled parking permit that belongs to another person while occupying a disabled parking space or an access aisle as defined in s. 316.1955 while the owner of the permit is not being transported in the vehicle or who uses an unauthorized replica of such a disabled parking permit with the intent to deceive is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(8)  A law enforcement officer may confiscate the disabled parking permit from any person who fraudulently obtains or unlawfully uses such a permit. A law enforcement officer may confiscate any disabled parking permit that is expired, reported as lost or stolen, or defaced, or that does not display a personal identification number.

(a)  Beginning April 1, 1999, the permit number of each confiscated permit must be submitted to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the fact that the permit has been confiscated must be noted on the permitholder's record. If two permits issued to the same person have been confiscated, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall refer the information to the central abuse hotline of the Department of Children and Family Services for an investigation of potential abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the permit owner.

(b)  A confiscated permit must be held as evidence until a judicial decision about the violation has been made. After a finding of guilt has been made or a plea of nolo contendere has been entered, the charging agency shall destroy the confiscated permit. A confiscated permit may not, under any circumstances, be returned to its registered owner after a finding of guilt has been made or a plea of nolo contendere has been entered in court. The permit number of each destroyed permit must be reported to the department, and the department must record in the real-time disabled parking permit database that the permit has been invalidated.

(9)  A violation of this section is grounds for disciplinary action under s. 458.331, s. 459.015, s. 460.413, or s. 461.013, as applicable.

(10)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall adopt rules to administer this section.

History.--s. 7, ch. 79-82; s. 3, ch. 80-196; s. 32, ch. 83-318; s. 4, ch. 84-108; s. 7, ch. 85-227; s. 1, ch. 86-237; s. 1, ch. 87-220; s. 1, ch. 90-28; s. 18, ch. 90-330; s. 66, ch. 93-120; s. 1, ch. 93-127; s. 12, ch. 93-268; s. 356, ch. 95-148; s. 7, ch. 95-327; s. 12, ch. 96-200; s. 8, ch. 96-296; s. 52, ch. 96-350; s. 51, ch. 97-100; s. 69, ch. 97-264; s. 12, ch. 97-300; s. 177, ch. 98-166; s. 7, ch. 98-202; s. 102, ch. 99-13; s. 271, ch. 99-248; s. 57, ch. 2000-349.

320.086  Ancient or antique motor vehicles; "horseless carriage," antique, or historical license plates.--

(1)  The owner of a motor vehicle for private use manufactured in 1945 or earlier, equipped with an engine manufactured in 1945 or earlier or manufactured to the specifications of the original engine, and operated on the streets and highways of this state shall, upon application in the manner and at the time prescribed by the department and upon payment of the license tax for an ancient motor vehicle prescribed by s. 320.08(1)(d), (2)(a), or (3)(e), be issued a special license plate for such motor vehicle. The license plate shall be permanent and valid for use without renewal so long as the vehicle is in existence. In addition to the payment of all other fees required by law, the applicant shall pay such fee for the issuance of the special license plate as may be prescribed by the department commensurate with the cost of its manufacture. The registration numbers and special license plates assigned to such motor vehicles shall run in a separate numerical series, commencing with "Horseless Carriage No. 1," and the plates shall be of a distinguishing color.

(2)(a)  The owner of a motor vehicle for private use manufactured after 1945 and of the age of 30 years or more after the date of manufacture, equipped with an engine of the age of 30 years or more after the date of manufacture, and operated on the streets and highways of this state may, upon application in the manner and at the time prescribed by the department and upon payment of the license tax prescribed by s. 320.08(1)(d), (2)(a), or (3)(e), be issued a special license plate for such motor vehicle. In addition to the payment of all other fees required by law, the applicant shall pay the fee for the issuance of the special license plate prescribed by the department, commensurate with the cost of its manufacture. The registration numbers and special license plates assigned to such motor vehicles shall run in a separate numerical series, commencing with "Antique No. 1," and the plates shall be of a distinguishing color. The owner of the motor vehicle may, upon application and payment of the license tax prescribed by s. 320.08, be issued a regular Florida license plate or specialty license plate in lieu of the special "Antique" license plate.

(b)  Motor vehicles licensed under this section which have been issued a permanent license plate prior to October 1, 1999, shall maintain such plate unless the vehicle is transferred to a new owner. Motor vehicles licensed under this section which have been issued a "Collectible" license plate prior to October 1, 1999, may retain that license plate until the next regularly scheduled replacement.

(3)  The owner of an ancient or antique firefighting apparatus or other historical motor vehicle or trailer identifiable as a military trailer 30 years old or older which is used only in exhibitions, parades, or public display, may, upon application in the manner and at the time prescribed by the department and upon payment of the license tax prescribed by s. 320.08(2)(a), be issued a license plate as prescribed in subsection (1) or subsection (2). License plates issued under this subsection shall be permanent and valid for use without renewal as long as the vehicle is in existence and its use is consistent with this subsection.

(4)  Any person who is the registered owner of a motor vehicle as defined in this section and manufactured in the model year 1974 or earlier, may apply to the department for permission to use a historical Florida license plate that clearly represents the model year of the vehicle as a personalized prestige license plate. This plate shall be furnished by such person and shall be presented to the department with a reasonable fee to be determined by the department for approval and for authentication that the historic license plate and any applicable decals were issued by this state in the same year as the model year of the car or truck. The requirements of s. 320.0805(8)(b) do not apply to historical plates authorized under this subsection.

History.--s. 1, ch. 57-326; s. 1, ch. 59-206; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 6, ch. 78-363; s. 33, ch. 83-318; s. 2, ch. 87-197; s. 18, ch. 96-413; ss. 10, 51, ch. 97-300; s. 30, ch. 99-248; s. 45, ch. 2000-152.

320.0863  Street rods; license plates.--A "street rod" is a modified motor vehicle manufactured before 1949 which is maintained primarily for use in exhibitions, club activities, parades, and other functions of public interest but not for general transportation. For the purposes of this section, the word "modified" means that an engine, a driveline, a suspension, brakes, or other component parts manufactured after 1949 are installed. The owner of any such motor vehicle, upon application to the department and upon payment of the license tax prescribed by s. 320.08(2)(a) and a processing fee of $3, shall be issued a special license plate for such motor vehicle. The registration number and special license plates assigned to such vehicles shall run in a separate series, commencing with "Street Rod 1," and the plates shall be of a distinguishing color. A motor vehicle bearing a "street rod" license plate is required to meet state motor vehicle safety requirements.

History.--s. 2, ch. 83-19.

320.087  Intercity buses operated in interstate commerce; tax.--All intercity motor buses owned or operated by residents or nonresidents of this state in interstate commerce or combined interstate and intrastate commerce as a result of which operation such motor buses operate both within and without this state under the authority of the United States Department of Transportation, are subject to motor vehicle license taxes on a basis commensurate with the use of Florida roads. The department shall require the registration in this state of that percentage of intercity motor buses operating in interstate commerce or combined interstate-intrastate commerce, into or through this state, which the actual mileage operated in this state bears to the total mileage all such intercity motor buses are operated both within and without this state. Such percentage figure, so determined, is the "Florida mileage factor." In determining the state license tax to be paid on the buses actually operated in this state under the foregoing method, the department shall first compute the amount that the state license tax would be if all of such buses were in fact subject to such tax, and then apply to that amount the Florida mileage factor.

History.--ss. 1, 2, ch. 59-194; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 34, ch. 83-318; s. 272, ch. 99-248.

320.089  Members of National Guard and active United States Armed Forces reservists; former prisoners of war; survivors of Pearl Harbor; Purple Heart medal recipients; special license plates; fee.--

(1)(a)  Each owner or lessee of an automobile or truck for private use or recreational vehicle as specified in s. 320.08(9)(c) or (d), which is not used for hire or commercial use, who is a resident of the state and an active or retired member of the Florida National Guard, a survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor, a recipient of the Purple Heart medal, or an active member of any branch of the United States Armed Forces Reserve shall, upon application to the department, accompanied by proof of active membership or retired status in the Florida National Guard, proof of membership in the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association or proof of active military duty in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, proof of being a Purple Heart medal recipient, or proof of active membership in any branch of the Armed Forces Reserve, and upon payment of the license tax for the vehicle as provided in s. 320.08, be issued a license plate as provided by s. 320.06, upon which, in lieu of the serial numbers prescribed by s. 320.06, shall be stamped the words "National Guard," "Pearl Harbor Survivor," "Combat-wounded veteran," or "U.S. Reserve," as appropriate, followed by the serial number of the license plate. Additionally, the Purple Heart plate may have the words "Purple Heart" stamped on the plate and the likeness of the Purple Heart medal appearing on the plate.

(b)  Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary beginning with fiscal year 2000-2001 and annually thereafter, the first $50,000 in general revenue generated from the sale of license plates issued under this section which are stamped with the words "National Guard," "Pearl Harbor Survivor," "Combat-wounded veteran," or "U.S. Reserve" shall be deposited into the Grants and Donations Trust Fund, as described in s. 296.38(2), to be used for the purposes established by law for that trust fund.

(2)  Each owner or lessee of an automobile for private use, truck weighing not more than 5,000 pounds, or recreational vehicle as specified in s. 320.08(9)(c) or (d), which is not used for hire or commercial use, who is a resident of the state and who is a former prisoner of war, or their unremarried surviving spouse, shall, upon application therefor to the department, be issued a license plate as provided in s. 320.06, on which license plate are stamped the words "Ex-POW" followed by the serial number. Each application shall be accompanied by proof that the applicant meets the qualifications specified in paragraph (a) or paragraph (b).

(a)  A citizen of the United States who served as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States or the armed forces of a nation allied with the United States who was held as a prisoner of war at such time as the Armed Forces of the United States were engaged in combat, or their unremarried surviving spouse, may be issued the special license plate provided for in this subsection without payment of the license tax imposed by s. 320.08.

(b)  A person who was serving as a civilian with the consent of the United States Government, or a person who was a member of the Armed Forces of the United States who was not a United States citizen and was held as a prisoner of war when the Armed Forces of the United States were engaged in combat, or their unremarried surviving spouse, may be issued the special license plate provided for in this subsection upon payment of the license tax imposed by s. 320.08.

(3)  Each owner or lessee of an automobile for private use, truck weighing not more than 5,000 pounds, or recreational vehicle as specified in s. 320.08(9)(c) or (d), which is not used for hire or commercial use, who is a resident of this state and who is the unremarried surviving spouse of a recipient of the Purple Heart medal shall, upon application therefor to the department, with the payment of the required fees, be issued a license plate as provided in s. 320.06, on which license plate are stamped the words "Purple Heart" and the likeness of the Purple Heart medal followed by the serial number. Each application shall be accompanied by proof that the applicant is the unremarried surviving spouse of a recipient of the Purple Heart medal.

History.--ss. 1-3, ch. 65-132; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 74-52; s. 5, ch. 77-68; s. 18, ch. 77-357; s. 5, ch. 82-97; s. 13, ch. 83-218; s. 35, ch. 83-318; s. 3, ch. 84-108; s. 1, ch. 85-66; s. 1, ch. 92-189; s. 67, ch. 93-120; s. 59, ch. 94-306; s. 8, ch. 95-282; s. 23, ch. 96-413; s. 1, ch. 99-296; s. 1, ch. 2000-358.

320.0893  Motor vehicle license plates to recipients of the Medal of Honor.--Any United States citizen who is a resident of Florida and who was awarded the Medal of Honor while serving as a member of the United States Armed Forces may, upon application to the department, be issued a license plate on which is stamped the words "Medal of Honor" followed by the serial number. Upon submission of the application and proof that the applicant meets the above qualifications the plate shall be issued without payment of the license tax imposed by s. 320.08.

History.--s. 2, ch. 85-66.

320.0898  Emergency service special registration plates; fee; penalty.--

(1)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall issue a special motor vehicle license plate for the front of any motor vehicle of any:

(a)  Certified emergency medical technician.

(b)  Certified paramedic.

(c)  Firefighter.

(d)  Law enforcement officer.

(e)  Emergency management personnel, as defined in chapter 252.

The designation on such special motor vehicle license plate shall indicate that the motor vehicle is owned by such a public safety officer.

(2)  An applicant for a special motor vehicle license plate shall provide proof of one of the following:

(a)  If the applicant is an emergency medical technician or paramedic, that he or she is certified in accordance with the provisions of chapter 401 and is actively serving with an emergency medical service or rescue service licensed in accordance with the provisions of chapter 401 or with a hospital emergency department.

(b)  If the applicant is a firefighter, that he or she is actively engaged in firefighting activities in the employ of a fire department or is a member of a volunteer fire department.

(c)  If the applicant is a law enforcement officer, that he or she is actively engaged as a law enforcement officer as specified in chapter 943.

(3)  Upon application by a qualified person who provides the proof required in subsection (2) together with a fee of $5, the department shall issue an emergency service registration plate. The plate shall remain in force only for the period of time that the applicant is actively engaged in service described in subsection (2). The recipient of a special motor vehicle license plate issued pursuant to this section shall be required to return the plate within 10 days of the date that he or she becomes disassociated from the service or organization on account of service in which the plate was issued.

(4)  Special motor vehicle license plates issued pursuant to this section for the front of motor vehicles shall be designed as follows:

(a)  With respect to emergency medical technicians and paramedics, the plates shall contain a white background with orange letters and, in addition to whatever else the department may require, the designation "EMS."

(b)  With respect to firefighters, the plates shall contain a white background with red letters and, in addition to whatever else the department may require, the designation "F.D." and a Maltese cross.

(c)  With respect to law enforcement officers, the plates shall contain a white background with blue letters and, in addition to whatever else the department may require, the designation "P.O."

(d)  With respect to emergency management personnel, the plates shall contain a white background with red letters and, in addition to whatever else the department may require, the designation "CD" and the logo for civil defense.

(5)  Any person who violates the provisions of this act by willfully or fraudulently obtaining a special motor vehicle license plate pursuant to this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 2, ch. 84-108; s. 38, ch. 91-224; s. 357, ch. 95-148.

320.091  Vehicles held in trust; license plates.--Any trust which provides the beneficial use of a vehicle registered to the trust to a person otherwise qualified for a special license plate pursuant to ss. 320.0807, 320.083, 320.084, 320.0842, 320.0843, 320.0845, 320.086, 320.0863, 320.089, 320.0893, and 320.0898, may purchase the special license plate for the vehicle used by the qualified individual. The trustee shall provide an affidavit as to the terms of the trust related to the motor vehicle.

History.--s. 47, ch. 97-300.

320.10  Exemptions.--

(1)  The provisions of s. 320.08 do not apply to:

(a)  Any motor vehicle or mobile home owned by, and operated exclusively for the personal use of, any member of the United States Armed Forces who is not a resident of this state and who is stationed in the state while in compliance with military or naval orders;

(b)  Any motor vehicle owned or operated exclusively by the Federal Government;

(c)  Any motor vehicle owned and operated exclusively for the benefit of the Boys' Clubs of America, the National Audubon Society, the National Children's Cardiac Hospital, any humane society, any nationally chartered veterans' organization that maintains a state headquarters in this state, the Children's Bible Mission, the Boy Scouts of America, the Girl Scouts of America, the Salvation Army, the American National Red Cross, the United Service Organization, any local member unit of the National Urban League which provides free services to municipal and county residents who are in need of such services, the Young Men's Christian Association, the Young Men's Hebrew Association, the Camp Fire Girls' Council, the Young Women's Christian Association, the Young Women's Hebrew Association, any local member unit of the Association for Retarded Citizens, the Children's Home Society of Florida, or the Goodwill Industries. A not-for-profit organization named in this paragraph and its local affiliate organizations shall be eligible for the exemption for so long as each maintains current articles of incorporation on file with the Department of State and qualifies as a not-for-profit organization under s. 212.08;

(d)  Any motor vehicle owned and operated by a church, temple, or synagogue for exclusive use as a community service van or to transport passengers without compensation to religious services or for religious education;

(e)  Any motor vehicle owned and operated by the Civil Air Patrol or the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary;

(f)  Any mobile blood bank unit when operated as a nonprofit service by an organization;

(g)  Any mobile X-ray unit or truck or bus used exclusively for public health purposes;

(h)  Any school bus owned and operated by a nonprofit educational or religious corporation;

(i)  Any vehicle used by any of the various search and rescue units of the several counties for exclusive use as a search and rescue vehicle; and

(j)  Any motor vehicle used by a community transportation coordinator or a transportation operator as defined in part I of chapter 427, and which is used exclusively to transport transportation disadvantaged persons.

(2)  Any such vehicle or mobile home, except one owned or operated exclusively by the Federal Government, shall be furnished a license plate, validation sticker, or mobile home sticker upon the proper application to the department and upon the payment of $3 to cover the cost of same. For any motor vehicle or mobile home which is exempt under paragraph (1)(a), there shall be issued a license plate, validation sticker, or mobile home sticker prescribed by s. 320.06; and for any vehicle which is exempt under paragraphs (1)(c)-(h), there shall be issued a license plate under series "X." Vehicles exempt under this provision must be equipped with proper license plates showing such exempt status.

(3)  An applicant for an exemption established by this section shall, at the time of initial issuance and at the commencement of each renewal period, furnish the department with sufficient documentary proof to establish eligibility for the requested exemption.

History.--s. 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1011; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1285; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 1, ch. 20411, 1941; s. 1, ch. 20912, 1941; s. 1, ch. 28314, 1953; s. 1, ch. 29980, 1955; s. 1, ch. 57-804; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 72-105; s. 1, ch. 73-198; s. 95, ch. 77-104; s. 19, ch. 77-357; s. 3, ch. 77-454; s. 2, ch. 79-79; s. 1, ch. 82-17; s. 15, ch. 83-218; ss. 12, 13, ch. 83-227; ss. 36, 57, ch. 83-318; s. 7, ch. 84-94; ss. 1, 2, ch. 85-343; s. 7, ch. 86-185; s. 12, ch. 89-376.

320.105  Golf carts and utility vehicles; exemption.--Golf carts and utility vehicles, as defined in s. 320.01, when operated in accordance with s. 316.212 or s. 316.2126, are exempt from provisions of this chapter which require the registration of vehicles or the display of license plates.

History.--s. 4, ch. 83-188; s. 30, ch. 87-198; s. 5, ch. 99-163.

320.13  Dealer and manufacturer license plates and alternative method of registration.--

(1)(a)  Any licensed motor vehicle dealer and any licensed mobile home dealer may, upon payment of the license tax imposed by s. 320.08(12), secure one or more dealer license plates, which are valid for use on motor vehicles or mobile homes owned by the dealer to whom such plates are issued while the motor vehicles are in inventory and for sale, or while being operated in connection with such dealer's business, but are not valid for use for hire. Dealer license plates may not be used on any tow truck or wrecker unless the tow truck or wrecker is being demonstrated for sale, and the dealer license plates may not be used on a vehicle used to transport another motor vehicle for the motor vehicle dealer.

(b)1.  Marine boat trailer dealers and manufacturers may, upon payment of the license taxes imposed by s. 320.08(12), secure one or more dealer plates, which are valid for use on boat trailers owned by the dealer to whom such plates are issued while being used in connection with such dealer's business, but are not valid for use for hire.

2.  It is the intent of the Legislature that the method currently used to license marine boat trailer dealers to do business in the state, that is, by an occupational license issued by the city or county, not be changed. The department shall not interpret this act to mean that it is empowered to license such dealers to do business. An occupational license tax certificate shall be sufficient proof upon which the department may issue dealer license plates.

(2)  A licensed manufacturer of motor vehicles may, upon payment of the license tax imposed by s. 320.08(12), secure one or more manufacturer license plates, which are valid for use on motor vehicles owned by the manufacturer to whom such plates are issued while the motor vehicles are in inventory and for sale, being operated for demonstration purposes, or in connection with such manufacturer's business, but are not valid for use for hire.

(3)  When a licensed dealer or a marine boat trailer dealer chooses to register any motor vehicle or boat trailer he or she owns and has for sale and secure a regular motor vehicle license plate therefor, the dealer may, upon sale thereof, submit to the department a transfer fee of $4.50 and an application for transfer of the license plate to a comparable motor vehicle or boat trailer owned by the dealer of the same weight series as set forth under s. 320.08.

History.--ss. 1, 3, ch. 9159, 1923; CGL 1313, 1315; s. 1, ch. 24186, 1947; s. 1, ch. 63-173; s. 6, ch. 65-190; s. 1, ch. 65-461; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 5, ch. 72-79; ss. 1, 3, ch. 76-135; s. 1, ch. 76-137; s. 3, ch. 77-125; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 20, ch. 77-357; s. 128, ch. 79-400; s. 37, ch. 83-318; s. 5, ch. 84-155; s. 29, ch. 95-143; s. 358, ch. 95-148; s. 40, ch. 96-413; s. 32, ch. 99-248.

320.131  Temporary tags.--

(1)  The department is authorized and empowered to design, issue, and regulate the use of temporary tags to be designated "temporary tags" for use in the following cases:

(a)  Where a dealer license plate may not be lawfully used.

(b)  For a casual or private sale, including the sale of a marine boat trailer by a marine boat trailer dealer. A "casual or private sale" means any sale other than that by a licensed dealer.

(c)  For certified common carriers or driveaway companies who transport motor vehicles, mobile homes, or recreational vehicles from one place to another for persons other than themselves.

(d)  For banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions which are not required to be licensed under the provisions of s. 320.27, s. 320.77, or s. 320.771, but need temporary tags for the purpose of demonstrating repossessions for sale.

(e)  Where a motor vehicle is sold in this state to a resident of another state for registration therein and the motor vehicle is not required to be registered under the provisions of s. 320.38.

(f)  Where a motor vehicle is required to be weighed or emission tested prior to registration or have a vehicle identification number verified. A temporary tag issued for any of these purposes shall be valid for 10 days.

(g)  Where an out-of-state resident, subject to registration in this state, must secure ownership documentation from the home state.

(h)  For a rental car company which possesses a motor vehicle dealer license and which may use temporary tags on vehicles offered for lease by such company in accordance with the provisions of rules established by the department. However, the original issuance date of a temporary tag shall be the date which determines the applicable license plate fee.

(i)  In the resolution of a consumer complaint where there is a need to issue more than two temporary tags, the department may do so.

(j)  While a personalized prestige or specialty license plate is being manufactured for use upon the motor vehicle. A temporary tag issued for this purpose shall be valid for 90 days.

(k)  In any case where a permanent license plate cannot legally be issued to an applicant and a temporary license plate is not specifically authorized under the provisions of this section, the department shall have the discretion to issue or authorize agents or Florida licensed dealers to issue temporary license plates to applicants demonstrating a need for such temporary use.

(l)  For use by licensed dealers to transport motor vehicles and recreational vehicles from the dealer's licensed location to an off-premise sales location and return. Temporary tags used for such purposes shall be issued to the licensed dealer who owns the vehicles.

Further, the department is authorized to disallow the purchase of temporary tags by licensed dealers, common carriers, or financial institutions in those cases where abuse has occurred.

(2)  The department is authorized to sell temporary tags, in addition to those listed above, to their agents and where need is demonstrated by a consumer complainant. The fee shall be $2 each. One dollar from each tag sold shall be deposited into the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Trust Fund, with the remaining proceeds being deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. Agents of the department shall sell temporary tags for $2 each and shall charge the service charge authorized by s. 320.04 per transaction, regardless of the quantity sold. Requests for purchase of temporary tags to the department or its agents shall be made, where applicable, on letterhead stationery and notarized. Except as specifically provided otherwise, a temporary tag shall be valid for 30 days, and no more than two shall be issued to the same person for the same vehicle.

(3)  Any person or corporation who unlawfully issues or uses a temporary tag or violates this section or any rule adopted by the department to implement this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083 in addition to other administrative action by the department, except that using a temporary tag that has been expired for a period of 7 days or less is a noncriminal infraction, and is a nonmoving violation punishable as provided for in chapter 318.

(4)  Temporary tags shall be conspicuously displayed in the rear license plate bracket or attached to the inside of the rear window in an upright position so as to be clearly visible from the rear of the vehicle. On vehicles requiring front display of license plates, temporary tags shall be displayed on the front of the vehicle in the location where the metal license plate would normally be displayed.

(5)  Any person who knowingly and willfully abuses or misuses temporary tag issuance to avoid registering a vehicle requiring registration pursuant to this chapter or chapter 319 commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(6)  Any person who knowingly and willfully issues a temporary tag or causes another to issue a temporary tag to a fictitious person or entity to avoid disclosure of the true owner of a vehicle commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

(7)  Any person authorized by this section to purchase and issue a temporary tag shall maintain records as required by this chapter or departmental rules, and such records shall be open to inspection by the department or its agents during reasonable business hours. Any person who knowingly and willfully fails to comply with this subsection commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--ss. 1-4, ch. 59-348; s. 1, ch. 61-150; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 195, ch. 71-136; s. 1, ch. 72-46; s. 10, ch. 75-66; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 1, ch. 78-217; s. 4, ch. 78-225; s. 1, ch. 80-217; s. 3, ch. 82-97; s. 25, ch. 82-134; s. 38, ch. 83-318; s. 3, ch. 85-176; s. 1, ch. 87-401; s. 1, ch. 88-395; s. 9, ch. 90-329; s. 79, ch. 93-120; s. 2, ch. 94-142; s. 12, ch. 94-314; s. 74, ch. 94-353; s. 23, ch. 95-333; s. 41, ch. 96-413; s. 13, ch. 97-300; s. 33, ch. 99-248.

320.1325  Registration required for the temporarily employed.--Motor vehicles owned or leased by persons who are temporarily employed within the state but are not residents are required to be registered. Upon payment of the fees prescribed in this section and proof of insurance coverage as required by the applicant's resident state, the department shall provide a temporary registration plate and a registration certificate valid for 90 days to an applicant who is temporarily employed in this state. The temporary registration plate may be renewed one time for an additional 90-day period. At the end of the 180-day period of temporary registration, the applicant shall apply for a permanent registration if there is a further need to remain in this state. A temporary license registration plate may not be issued for any commercial motor vehicle as defined in s. 320.01. The fee for the 90-day temporary registration plate shall be $40 plus the applicable service charge required by s. 320.04. Subsequent permanent registration and titling of a vehicle registered hereunder shall subject the applicant to providing proof of Florida insurance coverage as specified in s. 320.02 and payment of the fees required by s. 320.072, in addition to all other taxes and fees required.

History.--s. 11, ch. 91-82; s. 62, ch. 94-306; s. 103, ch. 99-13; ss. 34, 273, ch. 99-248.

320.133  Transporter license plates.--

(1)  The department is authorized to issue a transporter license plate to any applicant who, incidental to the conduct of his or her business, engages in the transporting of motor vehicles which are not currently registered to any owner and which do not have license plates, upon payment of the license tax imposed by s. 320.08(15) for each such license plate and upon proof of liability insurance coverage in the amount of $100,000 or more. Such a transporter license plate is valid for use on any motor vehicle in the possession of the transporter while the motor vehicle is being transported in the course of the transporter's business.

(2)  A license issued pursuant to subsection (1) must be in a distinctive color approved by the department and the word "transporter" must appear on the face of the license plate in place of the county name.

(3)  A license plate issued under this section is valid for a period of 12 months, beginning January 1 and ending December 31. No refund of the license tax imposed may be provided for any unexpired portion of a license period.

History.--s. 1, ch. 88-410; s. 359, ch. 95-148.

320.14  Fractional license tax.--

(1)  Unless otherwise expressly provided in this section, the full amount of the license tax imposed under s. 320.08 shall be charged for the registration period, regardless of when during the registration period the vehicle is registered.

(2)  Except for vehicles covered by subsection (3) and except for vehicles taxed under s. 320.08(2)(b), (c), or (d), (3)(a), (b), or (c), (5)(a), (7)(a), or (9), the license tax charged to a person for the registration of a vehicle which was not previously subject to registration in this state by that person and which is being registered:

(a)  During the seventh, eighth, or ninth month of the registration period shall be one-half of the annual license tax amount prescribed in s. 320.08.

(b)  During the 10th or subsequent month of the registration period shall be one-fourth of the annual license tax amount prescribed in s. 320.08.

(3)  The license tax charged a person for the registration of a vehicle which:

(a)  Is taxed under s. 320.08(3)(d) or (e), (4), (6)(b), or (7)(b);

(b)  Is being registered during the second or subsequent month of the registration period;

(c)  Was not previously subject to registration by that person during that registration period; and

(d)  If being registered during the first 3 months of the registration period, was not registered by that person in this state during the preceding registration period

shall be at the rate of one-twelfth of the annual license tax amount for the month of registration and one-twelfth of the annual license tax amount for each month of the registration period succeeding the month of registration.

(4)  Any truck tractor which is used exclusively for hauling agricultural products and which is not required to be apportioned may register for any 3-month period or 6-month period and pay, respectively, one-quarter or one-half of the annual registration rate provided in s. 320.08.

(5)  A license tax of less than $5 may not be charged under this section unless otherwise expressly provided by law.

(6)  For a trailer or semitrailer taxed under s. 320.08(5) or (7)(a), there shall be no reduction in the annual license tax paid for a half-year or quarter-year registration.

History.--s. 7, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7276, 1917; RGS 1012; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 4, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1286; s. 4, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 1, ch. 25139, 1949; s. 8, ch. 28186, 1953; s. 1, ch. 57-373; s. 6, ch. 65-190; s. 1, ch. 67-553; s. 11, ch. 75-66; s. 46, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 83-155; s. 39, ch. 83-318; s. 6, ch. 85-81; s. 52, ch. 85-180; s. 31, ch. 87-198; s. 114, ch. 90-136; s. 11, ch. 90-329.

320.15  Refund of license tax.--Any resident owner of a motor vehicle or mobile home that has been destroyed or permanently removed from the state shall, upon application to the department and surrender of the license plate or mobile home sticker issued for such vehicle, be entitled to a credit to apply to registration of any other vehicle in the name of the owner, if the amount is $3 or more, for the unexpired period of the license. However, if the license plate surrendered is a "for-hire" license plate, the amount of credit may not be more than one-half of the annual license tax amount. A credit will not be valid after the expiration date of the license plate which is current on the date of the credit, as provided in s. 320.07.

History.--s. 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1011; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1285; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 1, ch. 59-266; s. 6, ch. 65-190; s. 1, ch. 65-465; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 3, ch. 78-186; s. 40, ch. 83-318; s. 53, ch. 85-180; s. 12, ch. 88-306; s. 115, ch. 90-136; s. 10, ch. 90-329.

320.17  Classification of vehicles and mobile homes and assessment of license tax by department.--The department may, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, determine the classification of, and the amount of license tax due on, any motor vehicle or mobile home required to be registered under the laws of this state and may, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, fix, determine, and assess the amount of license tax and fees to be paid for registration or renewal of registration. A determination of the department, when certified in writing, is prima facie evidence of the validity, regularity, and propriety thereof and of the liability of the vehicle involved therein to the classification and tax so determined, fixed, and assessed. No such determination when made by the department may be disregarded or set aside in any court, except when clearly shown to be unwarranted in law or in fact.

History.--s. 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1011; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1285; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 41, ch. 83-318.

320.18  Withholding registration.--

(1)  The department may withhold the registration of any motor vehicle or mobile home the owner of which has failed to register it under the provisions of law for any previous period or periods for which it appears registration should have been made in this state, until the tax for such period or periods is paid. The department may cancel any license plate or fuel-use tax decal if the owner pays for the license plate, fuel-use tax decal, or any tax liability, penalty, or interest specified in chapter 207 by a dishonored check. The Department of Transportation and the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles may impound any commercial motor vehicle that has a canceled license plate or fuel-use tax decal until the tax liability, penalty, and interest specified in chapter 207, the license tax, or the fuel-use decal fee, and applicable administrative fees have been paid for by certified funds.

(2)  An owner of a motor vehicle is exempt from the payment of a license tax for any previous period or periods for which registration should have been made upon presentation to the department by the owner of a notarized or certified affidavit stating that such motor vehicle was continuously maintained in dead storage and was not operated at any time during the registration period or periods for which the exemption is being claimed.

(3)  In the case of repossession, a mobile home is exempt from registration when the dwelling is not transferred or titled for occupancy.

History.--s. 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1011; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1285; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 6, ch. 69-178; s. 1, ch. 78-216; s. 42, ch. 83-318; s. 63, ch. 94-306; s. 915, ch. 95-148; s. 42, ch. 96-413.

320.19  Tax lien; enforcement.--The license tax required under this chapter, when not paid, constitutes a first lien upon the motor vehicle or mobile home on which the tax is due. Such lien is superior to all other liens upon such vehicle. If the amount of the license tax due remains unpaid for more than 30 days, the department may, in addition to any other remedy provided by law, enforce the lien by issuance of a tax warrant. The sheriff or other person to whom such warrant is directed shall proceed upon the warrant in the manner and with like effect as is prescribed by law for executions issued against property upon judgments of record.

History.--s. 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1011; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1285; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 21, 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 43, ch. 83-318.

320.20  Disposition of license tax moneys.--The revenue derived from the registration of motor vehicles, including any delinquent fees and excluding those revenues collected and distributed under the provisions of s. 320.081, must be distributed monthly, as collected, as follows:

(1)  The first proceeds, to the extent necessary to comply with the provisions of s. 18, Art. XII of the State Constitution of 1885, as adopted by s. 9(d), Art. XII, 1968 revised constitution, and the additional provisions of s. 9(d) and s. 236.602, must be deposited in the district Capital Outlay and Debt Service School Trust Fund.

(2)  Twenty-five million dollars per year of such revenues must be deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund, with priority use assigned to completion of the interstate highway system. However, any excess funds may be utilized for general transportation purposes, consistent with the Department of Transportation's legislatively approved objectives. Prior to such utilization, the department's comptroller shall certify that adequate funds are available to assure expeditious completion of the interstate highway system and to award all such contracts by 1990.

(3)  Notwithstanding any other provision of law except subsections (1) and (2), on July 1, 1996, and annually thereafter, $15 million shall be deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund solely for the purposes of funding the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Program as provided for in chapter 311. Such revenues shall be distributed on a 50-50 matching basis to any port listed in s. 311.09(1) to be used for funding projects as described in s. 311.07(3)(b). Such revenues may be assigned, pledged, or set aside as a trust for the payment of principal or interest on bonds, tax anticipation certificates, or any other form of indebtedness issued by an individual port or appropriate local government having jurisdiction thereof, or collectively by interlocal agreement among any of the ports, or used to purchase credit support to permit such borrowings. However, such debt shall not constitute a general obligation of the State of Florida. The state does hereby covenant with holders of such revenue bonds or other instruments of indebtedness issued hereunder that it will not repeal or impair or amend in any manner which will materially and adversely affect the rights of such holders so long as bonds authorized by this section are outstanding. Any revenues which are not pledged to the repayment of bonds as authorized by this section may be utilized for purposes authorized under the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Program. This revenue source is in addition to any amounts provided for and appropriated in accordance with s. 311.07. The Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Council shall approve distribution of funds to ports for projects which have been approved pursuant to s. 311.09(5)-(9). The council and the Department of Transportation are authorized to perform such acts as are required to facilitate and implement the provisions of this subsection. To better enable the ports to cooperate to their mutual advantage, the governing body of each port may exercise powers provided to municipalities or counties in s. 163.01(7)(d) subject to the provisions of chapter 311 and special acts, if any, pertaining to a port. The use of funds provided pursuant to this subsection are limited to eligible projects listed in this subsection. Income derived from a project completed with the use of program funds, beyond operating costs and debt service, shall be restricted to further port capital improvements consistent with maritime purposes and for no other purpose. Use of such income for nonmaritime purposes is prohibited. The provisions of s. 311.07(4) do not apply to any funds received pursuant to this subsection. The revenues available under this subsection shall not be pledged to the payment of any bonds other than the Florida Ports Financing Commission Series 1996 and Series 1999 Bonds currently outstanding; provided, however, such revenues may be pledged to secure payment of refunding bonds to refinance the Florida Ports Financing Commission Series 1996 and Series 1999 Bonds. No refunding bonds secured by revenues available under this subsection may be issued with a final maturity later than the final maturity of the Florida Ports Financing Commission Series 1996 and Series 1999 Bonds or which provide for higher debt service in any year than is currently payable on such bonds. Any revenue bonds or other indebtedness issued after July 1, 2000, other than refunding bonds shall be issued by the Division of Bond Finance at the request of the Department of Transportation pursuant to the State Bond Act.

(4)  Notwithstanding any other provision of law except subsections (1), (2), and (3), on July 1, 1999, and annually thereafter, $10 million shall be deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund solely for the purposes of funding the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Program as provided in chapter 311 and for funding seaport intermodal access projects of statewide significance as provided in s. 341.053. Such revenues shall be distributed to any port listed in s. 311.09(1), to be used for funding projects as follows:

(a)  For any seaport intermodal access projects that are identified in the 1997-1998 Tentative Work Program of the Department of Transportation, up to the amounts needed to offset the funding requirements of this section.

(b)  For seaport intermodal access projects as described in s. 341.053(5) that are identified in the 5-year Florida Seaport Mission Plan as provided in s. 311.09(3). Funding for such projects shall be on a matching basis as mutually determined by the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Council and the Department of Transportation, provided a minimum of 25 percent of total project funds shall come from any port funds, local funds, private funds, or specifically earmarked federal funds.

(c)  On a 50-50 matching basis for projects as described in s. 311.07(3)(b).

(d)  For seaport intermodal access projects that involve the dredging or deepening of channels, turning basins, or harbors; or the rehabilitation of wharves, docks, or similar structures. Funding for such projects shall require a 25 percent match of the funds received pursuant to this subsection. Matching funds shall come from any port funds, federal funds, local funds, or private funds.

Such revenues may be assigned, pledged, or set aside as a trust for the payment of principal or interest on bonds, tax anticipation certificates, or any other form of indebtedness issued by an individual port or appropriate local government having jurisdiction thereof, or collectively by interlocal agreement among any of the ports, or used to purchase credit support to permit such borrowings. However, such debt shall not constitute a general obligation of the state. This state does hereby covenant with holders of such revenue bonds or other instruments of indebtedness issued hereunder that it will not repeal or impair or amend this subsection in any manner which will materially and adversely affect the rights of holders so long as bonds authorized by this subsection are outstanding. Any revenues that are not pledged to the repayment of bonds as authorized by this section may be utilized for purposes authorized under the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Program. This revenue source is in addition to any amounts provided for and appropriated in accordance with s. 311.07 and subsection (3). The Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Council shall approve distribution of funds to ports for projects that have been approved pursuant to s. 311.09(5)-(9), or for seaport intermodal access projects identified in the 5-year Florida Seaport Mission Plan as provided in s. 311.09(3) and mutually agreed upon by the FSTED Council and the Department of Transportation. All contracts for actual construction of projects authorized by this subsection must include a provision encouraging employment of participants in the welfare transition program. The goal for employment of participants in the welfare transition program is 25 percent of all new employees employed specifically for the project, unless the Department of Transportation and the Florida Seaport Transportation and Economic Development Council demonstrate that such a requirement would severely hamper the successful completion of the project. In such an instance, Workforce Florida, Inc., shall establish an appropriate percentage of employees that must be participants in the welfare transition program. The council and the Department of Transportation are authorized to perform such acts as are required to facilitate and implement the provisions of this subsection. To better enable the ports to cooperate to their mutual advantage, the governing body of each port may exercise powers provided to municipalities or counties in s. 163.01(7)(d) subject to the provisions of chapter 311 and special acts, if any, pertaining to a port. The use of funds provided pursuant to this subsection is limited to eligible projects listed in this subsection. The provisions of s. 311.07(4) do not apply to any funds received pursuant to this subsection. The revenues available under this subsection shall not be pledged to the payment of any bonds other than the Florida Ports Financing Commission Series 1996 and Series 1999 Bonds currently outstanding; provided, however, such revenues may be pledged to secure payment of refunding bonds to refinance the Florida Ports Financing Commission Series 1996 and Series 1999 Bonds. No refunding bonds secured by revenues available under this subsection may be issued with a final maturity later than the final maturity of the Florida Ports Financing Commission Series 1996 and Series 1999 Bonds or which provide for higher debt service in any year than is currently payable on such bonds. Any revenue bonds or other indebtedness issued after July 1, 2000, other than refunding bonds shall be issued by the Division of Bond Finance at the request of the Department of Transportation pursuant to the State Bond Act.

(5)(a)  Except as provided in paragraph (c), the remainder of such revenues must be deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund.

(b)  The State Comptroller each month shall deposit in the State Transportation Trust Fund an amount, drawn from other funds in the State Treasury which are not immediately needed or are otherwise in excess of the amount necessary to meet the requirements of the State Treasury, which when added to such remaining revenues each month will equal one-twelfth of the amount of the anticipated annual revenues to be deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund under paragraph (a) as estimated by the most recent revenue estimating conference held pursuant to s. 216.136(3). The transfers required hereunder may be suspended by action of the Legislative Budget Commission in the event of a significant shortfall of state revenues.

(c)  In any month in which the remaining revenues derived from the registration of motor vehicles exceed one-twelfth of those anticipated annual remaining revenues as determined by the revenue estimating conference, the excess shall be credited to those state funds in the State Treasury from which the amount was originally drawn, up to the amount which was deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund under paragraph (b). A final adjustment must be made in the last months of a fiscal year so that the total revenue deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund each year equals the amount derived from the registration of motor vehicles, less the amount distributed under subsection (1). For the purposes of this paragraph and paragraph (b), the term "remaining revenues" means all revenues deposited into the State Transportation Trust Fund under paragraph (a) and subsections (2) and (3). In order that interest earnings continue to accrue to the General Revenue Fund, the Department of Transportation may not invest an amount equal to the cumulative amount of funds deposited in the State Transportation Trust Fund under paragraph (b) less funds credited under this paragraph as computed on a monthly basis. The amounts to be credited under this and the preceding paragraph must be calculated and certified to the Comptroller by the Executive Office of the Governor.

History.--s. 27, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1031; s. 12, ch. 8410, 1921; CGL 1304; s. 4, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 44, ch. 26869, 1951; s. 1, ch. 65-514; s. 31, ch. 69-216; s. 1, ch. 69-300; s. 1, ch. 77-416; s. 1, ch. 81-222; s. 53, ch. 83-3; s. 14, ch. 83-138; s. 44, ch. 83-318; s. 7, ch. 85-81; s. 68, ch. 85-180; s. 20, ch. 89-301; ss. 61, 62, ch. 90-136; s. 30, ch. 95-143; s. 136, ch. 96-320; s. 50, ch. 97-278; s. 10, ch. 97-280; s. 104, ch. 99-13; s. 274, ch. 99-248; s. 14, ch. 99-385; s. 84, ch. 2000-165; s. 5, ch. 2000-266; s. 54, ch. 2000-371.

320.23  Taxes declared compensatory.--Taxes prescribed by this chapter are declared to be compensatory for the use of the public roads of this state by operators of motor vehicles taxed under the provisions of this chapter and are further declared to be a fair contribution to the cost of constructing and maintaining the public roads of this state. The administration and enforcement of this chapter and all regulations and restrictions imposed hereby and authorized to be imposed by this chapter are declared to be for the purpose of conservation of the property of the state and in the interest of safety in the use of its roads.

History.--s. 5, ch. 15625, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 1304(1); s. 2, ch. 63-496; s. 45, ch. 83-318.

320.26  Counterfeiting license plates, validation stickers, mobile home stickers, cab cards, trip permits, or special temporary operational permits prohibited; penalty.--

(1)(a)  No person shall counterfeit registration license plates, validation stickers, or mobile home stickers, or have in his or her possession any such plates or stickers; nor shall any person manufacture, sell, or dispose of registration license plates, validation stickers, or mobile home stickers in the state without first having obtained the permission and authority of the department in writing.

(b)  No person shall counterfeit, alter, or manufacture International Registration Plan cab cards, trip permits, special temporary permits, or temporary operational permits; nor shall any person sell or dispose of International Registration Plan cab cards, trip permits, special temporary permits, or temporary operational permits without first having obtained the permission and authority of the department in writing.

(2)  Any person who violates this section is guilty of a felony of the third degree.

(a)  If the violator is a natural person, he or she is punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

(b)  If the violator is an association or corporation, it is punishable as provided in s. 775.083, and the official of the association or corporation under whose direction or with whose knowledge, consent, or acquiescence such violation occurred may be punished as provided in s. 775.082, in addition to the fine which may be imposed upon such association or corporation.

History.--ss. 1, 2, ch. 16086, 1933; CGL 1936 Supp. 7792(5); s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 7, ch. 69-178; s. 198, ch. 71-136; s. 6, ch. 72-79; s. 5, ch. 78-412; s. 46, ch. 83-318; s. 6, ch. 84-155; s. 21, ch. 86-243; s. 360, ch. 95-148.

320.261  Attaching registration license plate not assigned unlawful; penalty.--Any person who knowingly attaches to any motor vehicle or mobile home any registration license plate, or who knowingly attaches any validation sticker or mobile home sticker to a registration license plate, which plate or sticker was not issued and assigned or lawfully transferred to such vehicle, is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 1, ch. 59-478; s. 199, ch. 71-136; s. 7, ch. 72-79; s. 47, ch. 83-318.

320.27  Motor vehicle dealers.--

(1)  DEFINITIONS.--The following words, terms, and phrases when used in this section have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this subsection, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

(a)  "Department" means the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

(b)  "Motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle of the type and kind required to be registered and titled under chapter 319 and this chapter, except a recreational vehicle, moped, motorcycle powered by a motor with a displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or less, or mobile home.

(c)  "Motor vehicle dealer" means any person engaged in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in motor vehicles or offering or displaying motor vehicles for sale at wholesale or retail, or who may service and repair motor vehicles pursuant to an agreement as defined in s. 320.60(1). Any person who buys, sells, or deals in three or more motor vehicles in any 12-month period or who offers or displays for sale three or more motor vehicles in any 12-month period shall be prima facie presumed to be engaged in such business. The terms "selling" and "sale" include lease-purchase transactions. A motor vehicle dealer may, at retail or wholesale, sell a recreational vehicle as described in s. 320.01(1)(b)1.-6. and 8., acquired in exchange for the sale of a motor vehicle, provided such acquisition is incidental to the principal business of being a motor vehicle dealer. However, a motor vehicle dealer may not buy a recreational vehicle for the purpose of resale unless licensed as a recreational vehicle dealer pursuant to s. 320.771. A motor vehicle dealer may apply for a certificate of title to a motor vehicle required to be registered under s. 320.08(2)(b), (c), and (d), using a manufacturer's statement of origin as permitted by s. 319.23(1), only if such dealer is authorized by a franchised agreement as defined in s. 320.60(1), to buy, sell, or deal in such vehicle and is authorized by such agreement to perform delivery and preparation obligations and warranty defect adjustments on the motor vehicle; provided this limitation shall not apply to recreational vehicles, van conversions, or any other motor vehicle manufactured on a truck chassis. The transfer of a motor vehicle by a dealer not meeting these qualifications shall be titled as a used vehicle. The classifications of motor vehicle dealers are defined as follows:

1.  "Franchised motor vehicle dealer" means any person who engages in the business of repairing, servicing, buying, selling, or dealing in motor vehicles pursuant to an agreement as defined in s. 320.60(1).

2.  "Independent motor vehicle dealer" means any person other than a franchised or wholesale motor vehicle dealer who engages in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in motor vehicles, and who may service and repair motor vehicles.

3.  "Wholesale motor vehicle dealer" means any person who engages exclusively in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in motor vehicles at wholesale or with motor vehicle auctions. Such person shall be licensed to do business in this state, shall not sell or auction a vehicle to any person who is not a licensed dealer, and shall not have the privilege of the use of dealer license plates. Any person who buys, sells, or deals in motor vehicles at wholesale or with motor vehicle auctions on behalf of a licensed motor vehicle dealer and as a bona fide employee of such licensed motor vehicle dealer is not required to be licensed as a wholesale motor vehicle dealer. In such cases it shall be prima facie presumed that a bona fide employer-employee relationship exists. A wholesale motor vehicle dealer shall be exempt from the display provisions of this section but shall maintain an office wherein records are kept in order that those records may be inspected.

4.  "Motor vehicle auction" means any person offering motor vehicles or recreational vehicles for sale to the highest bidder where both sellers and buyers are licensed motor vehicle dealers. Such person shall not sell a vehicle to anyone other than a licensed motor vehicle dealer.

5.  "Salvage motor vehicle dealer" means any person who engages in the business of acquiring salvaged or wrecked motor vehicles for the purpose of reselling them and their parts.

The term "motor vehicle dealer" does not include persons not engaged in the purchase or sale of motor vehicles as a business who are disposing of vehicles acquired for their own use or for use in their business or acquired by foreclosure or by operation of law, provided such vehicles are acquired and sold in good faith and not for the purpose of avoiding the provisions of this law; persons engaged in the business of manufacturing, selling, or offering or displaying for sale at wholesale or retail no more than 25 trailers in a 12-month period; public officers while performing their official duties; receivers; trustees, administrators, executors, guardians, or other persons appointed by, or acting under the judgment or order of, any court; banks, finance companies, or other loan agencies that acquire motor vehicles as an incident to their regular business; motor vehicle brokers; and motor vehicle rental and leasing companies that sell motor vehicles to motor vehicle dealers licensed under this section. Vehicles owned under circumstances described in this paragraph may be disposed of at retail, wholesale, or auction, unless otherwise restricted. A manufacturer of fire trucks, ambulances, or school buses may sell such vehicles directly to governmental agencies or to persons who contract to perform or provide firefighting, ambulance, or school transportation services exclusively to governmental agencies without processing such sales through dealers if such fire trucks, ambulances, school buses, or similar vehicles are not presently available through motor vehicle dealers licensed by the department.

(d)  "Motor vehicle broker" means any person engaged in the business of offering to procure or procuring motor vehicles for the general public, or who holds himself or herself out through solicitation, advertisement, or otherwise as one who offers to procure or procures motor vehicles for the general public, and who does not store, display, or take ownership of any vehicles for the purpose of selling such vehicles.

(e)  "Person" means any natural person, firm, partnership, association, or corporation.

(2)  LICENSE REQUIRED.--No person shall engage in business as, serve in the capacity of, or act as a motor vehicle dealer in this state without first obtaining a license therefor in the appropriate classification as provided in this section. With the exception of transactions with motor vehicle auctions, no person other than a licensed motor vehicle dealer may advertise for sale any motor vehicle belonging to another party unless as a direct result of a bona fide legal proceeding, court order, settlement of an estate, or by operation of law. However, owners of motor vehicles titled in their names may advertise and offer vehicles for sale on their own behalf. It shall be unlawful for a licensed motor vehicle dealer to allow any person other than a bona fide employee to use the motor vehicle dealer license for the purpose of acting in the capacity of or conducting motor vehicle sales transactions as a motor vehicle dealer. Any person selling or offering a motor vehicle for sale in violation of the licensing requirements of this subsection, or who misrepresents to any person its relationship with any manufacturer, importer, or distributor, in addition to the penalties provided herein, shall be deemed guilty of an unfair and deceptive trade practice as defined in part II of chapter 501 and shall be subject to the provisions of subsections (8) and (9).

(3)  APPLICATION AND FEE.--The application for the license shall be in such form as may be prescribed by the department and shall be subject to such rules with respect thereto as may be so prescribed by it. Such application shall be verified by oath or affirmation and shall contain a full statement of the name and birth date of the person or persons applying therefor; the name of the firm or copartnership, with the names and places of residence of all members thereof, if such applicant is a firm or copartnership; the names and places of residence of the principal officers, if the applicant is a body corporate or other artificial body; the name of the state under whose laws the corporation is organized; the present and former place or places of residence of the applicant; and prior business in which the applicant has been engaged and the location thereof. Such application shall describe the exact location of the place of business and shall state whether the place of business is owned by the applicant and when acquired, or, if leased, a true copy of the lease shall be attached to the application. The applicant shall certify that the location provides an adequately equipped office and is not a residence; that the location affords sufficient unoccupied space upon and within which adequately to store all motor vehicles offered and displayed for sale; and that the location is a suitable place where the applicant can in good faith carry on such business and keep and maintain books, records, and files necessary to conduct such business, which will be available at all reasonable hours to inspection by the department or any of its inspectors or other employees. The applicant shall certify that the business of a motor vehicle dealer is the principal business which shall be conducted at that location. Such application shall contain a statement that the applicant is either franchised by a manufacturer of motor vehicles, in which case the name of each motor vehicle that the applicant is franchised to sell shall be included, or an independent (nonfranchised) motor vehicle dealer. Such application shall contain such other relevant information as may be required by the department, including evidence that the applicant is insured under a garage liability insurance policy, which shall include, at a minimum, $25,000 combined single-limit liability coverage including bodily injury and property damage protection and $10,000 personal injury protection. Such policy shall be for the license period, and evidence of a new or continued policy shall be delivered to the department at the beginning of each license period. Upon making such initial application, the person applying therefor shall pay to the department a fee of $300 in addition to any other fees now required by law; upon making a subsequent renewal application, the person applying therefor shall pay to the department a fee of $75 in addition to any other fees now required by law. Upon making an application for a change of location, the person shall pay a fee of $50 in addition to any other fees now required by law. The department shall, in the case of every application for initial licensure, verify whether certain facts set forth in the application are true. Each applicant, general partner in the case of a partnership, or corporate officer and director in the case of a corporate applicant, must file a set of fingerprints with the department for the purpose of determining any prior criminal record or any outstanding warrants. The department shall submit the fingerprints to the Department of Law Enforcement for state processing and forwarding to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for federal processing. The actual cost of such state and federal processing shall be borne by the applicant and is to be in addition to the fee for licensure. The department may issue a license to an applicant pending the results of the fingerprint investigation, which license is fully revocable if the department subsequently determines that any facts set forth in the application are not true or correctly represented.

(4)  LICENSE CERTIFICATE.--

(a)  A license certificate shall be issued by the department in accordance with such application when the application is regular in form and in compliance with the provisions of this section. The license certificate may be in the form of a document or a computerized card as determined by the department. The actual cost of each original, additional, or replacement computerized card shall be borne by the licensee and is in addition to the fee for licensure. Such license, when so issued, entitles the licensee to carry on and conduct the business of a motor vehicle dealer. Each license issued to a franchise motor vehicle dealer expires annually on December 31 unless revoked or suspended prior to that date. Each license issued to an independent or wholesale dealer or auction expires annually on April 30 unless revoked or suspended prior to that date. Not less than 60 days prior to the license expiration date, the department shall deliver or mail to each licensee the necessary renewal forms. Any licensee who does not file his or her application and fees and any other requisite documents, as required by law, with the department at least 30 days prior to the license expiration date shall cease to engage in business as a motor vehicle dealer on the license expiration date. A renewal filed with the department within 45 days after the expiration date shall be accompanied by a delinquent fee of $100. Thereafter, a new application is required, accompanied by the initial license fee. A license certificate duly issued by the department may be modified by endorsement to show a change in the name of the licensee, provided, as shown by affidavit of the licensee, the majority ownership interest of the licensee has not changed or the name of the person appearing as franchisee on the sales and service agreement has not changed. Modification of a license certificate to show any name change as herein provided shall not require initial licensure or reissuance of dealer tags; however, any dealer obtaining a name change shall transact all business in and be properly identified by that name. All documents relative to licensure shall reflect the new name. In the case of a franchise dealer, the name change shall be approved by the manufacturer, distributor, or importer. A licensee applying for a name change endorsement shall pay a fee of $25 which fee shall apply to the change in the name of a main location and all additional locations licensed under the provisions of subsection (5). Each initial license application received by the department shall be accompanied by verification that, within the preceding 6 months, the applicant, or one or more of his or her designated employees, has attended a training and information seminar conducted by the department. Such seminar shall include, but is not limited to, statutory dealer requirements, which requirements include required bookkeeping and recordkeeping procedures, requirements for the collection of sales and use taxes, and such other information that in the opinion of the department will promote good business practices. No seminar may exceed 8 hours in length.

(b)  Each initial license application received by the department for licensure under subparagraph (1)(c)2. must be accompanied by verification that, within the preceding 6 months, the applicant (owner, partner, officer of the corporation, or director) has successfully completed training conducted by a licensed motor vehicle dealer training school. Such training must include training in titling and registration of motor vehicles, laws relating to unfair and deceptive trade practices, laws relating to financing with regard to buy-here, pay-here operations, and such other information that in the opinion of the department will promote good business practices. Successful completion of this training shall be determined by examination administered at the end of the course and attendance of no less than 90 percent of the total hours required by such school. Any applicant who had held a valid motor vehicle dealer's license within the past 2 years and who remains in good standing with the department is exempt from the requirements of this paragraph. In the case of nonresident applicants, the requirement to attend such training shall be placed on any employee of the licensee who holds a responsible management-level position and who is employed full-time at the motor vehicle dealership. The department shall have the authority to adopt any rule necessary for establishing the training curriculum; length of training, which shall not exceed 8 hours for required department topics and shall not exceed an additional 24 hours for topics related to other regulatory agencies' instructor qualifications; and any other requirements under this section. The curriculum for other subjects shall be approved by any and all other regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over specific subject matters; however, the overall administration of the licensing of these dealer schools and their instructors shall remain with the department. Such schools are authorized to charge a fee. This privatized method for training applicants for dealer licensing pursuant to subparagraph (1)(c)2. is a pilot program that shall be evaluated by the department after it has been in operation for a period of 2 years.

(5)  SUPPLEMENTAL LICENSE.--Any person licensed hereunder shall obtain a supplemental license for each permanent additional place or places of business not contiguous to the premises for which the original license is issued, on a form to be furnished by the department, and upon payment of a fee of $50 for each such additional location. Upon making renewal applications for such supplemental licenses, such applicant shall pay $50 for each additional location. A supplemental license authorizing off-premises sales shall be issued, at no charge to the dealer, for a period not to exceed 10 consecutive calendar days. To obtain such a temporary supplemental license for off-premises sales, the applicant must be a licensed dealer; must notify the applicable local department office of the specific dates and location for which such license is requested, display a sign at the licensed location clearly identifying the dealer, and provide staff to work at the temporary location for the duration of the off-premises sale; must meet any local government permitting requirements; and must have permission of the property owner to sell at that location. In the case of an off-premises sale by a motor vehicle dealer licensed under subparagraph (1)(c)1. for the sale of new motor vehicles, the applicant must also include documentation notifying the applicable licensee licensed under s. 320.61 of the intent to engage in an off-premises sale 5 working days prior to the date of the off-premises sale. The licensee shall either approve or disapprove of the off-premises sale ¹within 2 working days after receiving notice; otherwise, it will be deemed approved. This section does not apply to a nonselling motor vehicle show or public display of new motor vehicles.

(6)  RECORDS TO BE KEPT BY LICENSEE.--Every licensee shall keep a book or record in such form as shall be prescribed or approved by the department, in which the licensee shall keep a record of the purchase, sale, or exchange, or receipt for the purpose of sale, of any motor vehicle, the date upon which any temporary tag was issued, the date of title transfer, and a description of such motor vehicle together with the name and address of the seller, the purchaser, and the alleged owner or other person from whom such motor vehicle was purchased or received or to whom it was sold or delivered, as the case may be. Such description shall include the identification or engine number, maker's number, if any, chassis number, if any, and such other numbers or identification marks as may be thereon and shall also include a statement that a number has been obliterated, defaced, or changed, if such is the fact.

(7)  CERTIFICATE OF TITLE REQUIRED.--For each used motor vehicle in the possession of a licensee and offered for sale by him or her, the licensee either shall have in his or her possession a duly assigned certificate of title from the owner in accordance with the provisions of chapter 319, from the time when the motor vehicle is delivered to the licensee and offered for sale by him or her until it has been disposed of by the licensee, or shall have reasonable indicia of ownership or right of possession, or shall have made proper application for a certificate of title or duplicate certificate of title in accordance with the provisions of chapter 319. A motor vehicle dealer may not sell or offer for sale a vehicle in his or her possession unless the dealer satisfies the requirements of this subsection. Reasonable indicia of ownership shall include a duly assigned certificate of title; in the case of a new motor vehicle, a manufacturer's certificate of origin issued to or reassigned to the dealer; a consignment contract between the owner and the dealer along with a secure power of attorney from the owner to the dealer authorizing the dealer to apply for a duplicate certificate of title and assign the title on behalf of the owner; a court order awarding title to the vehicle to the dealer; a salvage certificate of title; a photocopy of a duly assigned certificate of title being held by a financial institution as collateral for a business loan of money to the dealer ("floor plan"); a copy of a canceled check or other documentation evidencing that an outstanding lien on a vehicle taken in trade by a licensed dealer has been satisfied and that the certificate of title will be, but has not yet been, received by the dealer; a vehicle purchase order or installment contract for a specific vehicle identifying that vehicle as a trade-in on a replacement vehicle; or a duly executed odometer disclosure statement as required by Title IV of the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act of 1972 (Pub. L. No. 92-513, as amended by Pub. L. No. 94-364 and Pub. L. No. 100-561) and by 49 C.F.R. part 580 bearing the signatures of the titled owners of a traded-in vehicle.

(8)  PENALTY.--Any person found guilty of violating any of the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(9)  DENIAL, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION.--The department may deny, suspend, or revoke any license issued hereunder or under the provisions of s. 320.77 or s. 320.771, upon proof that a licensee has failed to comply with any of the following provisions with sufficient frequency so as to establish a pattern of wrongdoing on the part of the licensee:

(a)  Willful violation of any other law of this state, including chapter 319, this chapter, or ss. 559.901-559.9221, which has to do with dealing in or repairing motor vehicles or mobile homes or willful failure to comply with any administrative rule promulgated by the department. Additionally, in the case of used motor vehicles, the willful violation of the federal law and rule in 15 U.S.C. s. 2304, 16 C.F.R. part 455, pertaining to the consumer sales window form.

(b)  Commission of fraud or willful misrepresentation in application for or in obtaining a license.

(c)  Perpetration of a fraud upon any person as a result of dealing in motor vehicles, including, without limitation, the misrepresentation to any person by the licensee of the licensee's relationship to any manufacturer, importer, or distributor.

(d)  Representation that a demonstrator is a new motor vehicle, or the attempt to sell or the sale of a demonstrator as a new motor vehicle without written notice to the purchaser that the vehicle is a demonstrator. For the purposes of this section, a "demonstrator," a "new motor vehicle," and a "used motor vehicle" shall be defined as under s. 320.60.

(e)  Unjustifiable refusal to comply with a licensee's responsibility under the terms of the new motor vehicle warranty issued by its respective manufacturer, distributor, or importer. However, if such refusal is at the direction of the manufacturer, distributor, or importer, such refusal shall not be a ground under this section.

(f)  Misrepresentation or false, deceptive, or misleading statements with regard to the sale or financing of motor vehicles which any motor vehicle dealer has, or causes to have, advertised, printed, displayed, published, distributed, broadcast, televised, or made in any manner with regard to the sale or financing of motor vehicles.

(g)  Requirement by any motor vehicle dealer that a customer or purchaser accept equipment on his or her motor vehicle which was not ordered by the customer or purchaser.

(h)  Requirement by any motor vehicle dealer that any customer or purchaser finance a motor vehicle with a specific financial institution or company.

(i)  Failure by any motor vehicle dealer to provide a customer or purchaser with an odometer disclosure statement and a copy of any bona fide written, executed sales contract or agreement of purchase connected with the purchase of the motor vehicle purchased by the customer or purchaser.

(j)  Failure of any motor vehicle dealer to comply with the terms of any bona fide written, executed agreement, pursuant to the sale of a motor vehicle.

(k)  Requirement by the motor vehicle dealer that the purchaser of a motor vehicle contract with the dealer for physical damage insurance.

(l)  Violation of any of the provisions of s. 319.35 by any motor vehicle dealer.

(m)  Either a history of bad credit or an unfavorable credit rating as revealed by the applicant's official credit report or by investigation by the department.

(n)  Failure to disclose damage to a new motor vehicle as defined in s. 320.60(10) of which the dealer had actual knowledge if the dealer's actual cost of repair, excluding tires, bumpers, and glass, exceeds 3 percent of the manufacturer's suggested retail price; provided, however, if only the application of exterior paint is involved, disclosure shall be made if such touch-up paint application exceeds $100.

(o)  Failure to apply for transfer of a title as prescribed in s. 319.23(6).

(p)  Use of the dealer license identification number by any person other than the licensed dealer or his or her designee.

(q)  Conviction of a felony.

(r)  Failure to continually meet the requirements of the licensure law.

(s)  When a motor vehicle dealer is convicted of a crime which results in his or her being prohibited from continuing in that capacity, the dealer may not continue in any capacity within the industry. The offender shall have no financial interest, management, sales, or other role in the operation of a dealership. Further, the offender may not derive income from the dealership beyond reasonable compensation for the sale of his or her ownership interest in the business.

(t)  Representation to a customer or any advertisement to the general public representing or suggesting that a motor vehicle is a new motor vehicle if such vehicle lawfully cannot be titled in the name of the customer or other member of the general public by the seller using a manufacturer's statement of origin as permitted in s. 319.23(1).

(u)  Failure to honor a bank draft or check given to a motor vehicle dealer for the purchase of a motor vehicle by another motor vehicle dealer within 10 days after notification that the bank draft or check has been dishonored. A single violation of this paragraph is sufficient for revocation or suspension. If the transaction is disputed, the maker of the bank draft or check shall post a bond in accordance with the provisions of s. 559.917, and no proceeding for revocation or suspension shall be commenced until the dispute is resolved.

(v)  Sale by a motor vehicle dealer of a vehicle offered in trade by a customer prior to consummation of the sale, exchange, or transfer of a newly acquired vehicle to the customer, unless the customer provides written authorization for the sale of the trade-in vehicle prior to delivery of the newly acquired vehicle.

(10)  SURETY BOND OR IRREVOCABLE LETTER OF CREDIT REQUIRED.--

(a)  Annually, before any license shall be issued to a motor vehicle dealer, the applicant-dealer of new or used motor vehicles shall deliver to the department a good and sufficient surety bond or irrevocable letter of credit, executed by the applicant-dealer as principal, in the sum of $25,000.

(b)  Surety bonds and irrevocable letters of credit shall be in a form to be approved by the department and shall be conditioned that the motor vehicle dealer shall comply with the conditions of any written contract made by such dealer in connection with the sale or exchange of any motor vehicle and shall not violate any of the provisions of chapter 319 and this chapter in the conduct of the business for which the dealer is licensed. Such bonds and letters of credit shall be to the department and in favor of any person in a retail or wholesale transaction who shall suffer any loss as a result of any violation of the conditions hereinabove contained. When the department determines that a person has incurred a loss as a result of a violation of chapter 319 or this chapter, it shall notify the person in writing of the existence of the bond or letter of credit. Such bonds and letters of credit shall be for the license period, and a new bond or letter of credit or a proper continuation certificate shall be delivered to the department at the beginning of each license period. However, the aggregate liability of the surety in any one year shall in no event exceed the sum of the bond or, in the case of a letter of credit, the aggregate liability of the issuing bank shall not exceed the sum of the credit.

(c)  Surety bonds shall be executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state as surety, and irrevocable letters of credit shall be issued by a bank authorized to do business in the state as a bank.

(d)  Irrevocable letters of credit shall be engaged by a bank as an agreement to honor demands for payment as specified in this section.

(e)  The department shall, upon denial, suspension, or revocation of any license, notify the surety company of the licensee, or bank issuing an irrevocable letter of credit for the licensee, in writing, that the license has been denied, suspended, or revoked and shall state the reason for such denial, suspension, or revocation.

(f)  Any surety company which pays any claim against the bond of any licensee or any bank which honors a demand for payment as a condition specified in a letter of credit of a licensee shall notify the department in writing that such action has been taken and shall state the amount of the claim or payment.

(g)  Any surety company which cancels the bond of any licensee or any bank which cancels an irrevocable letter of credit shall notify the department in writing of such cancellation, giving reason for the cancellation.

(11)  INJUNCTION.--In addition to the remedies provided in this chapter and notwithstanding the existence of any adequate remedy at law, the department is authorized to make application to any circuit court of the state, and such circuit court shall have jurisdiction, upon a hearing and for cause shown, to grant a temporary or permanent injunction, or both, restraining any person from acting as a motor vehicle dealer under the terms of this section without being properly licensed hereunder, from violating or continuing to violate any of the provisions of chapter 319, this chapter, or ss. 559.901-559.9221, or for failing or refusing to comply with the requirements of chapter 319, this chapter, or ss. 559.901-559.9221, or any rule or regulation adopted thereunder, such injunction to be issued without bond. A single act in violation of the provisions of chapter 319, this chapter, or chapter 559 shall be sufficient to authorize the issuance of an injunction.

(12)  CIVIL FINES; PROCEDURE.--In addition to the exercise of other powers provided in this section, the department may levy and collect a civil fine, in an amount not to exceed $1,000 for each violation, against any licensee if it finds that the licensee has violated any provision of this section or has violated any other law of this state or the federal law and administrative rule set forth in paragraph (9)(a) related to dealing in motor vehicles. Any licensee shall be entitled to a hearing pursuant to chapter 120 if the licensee contests the fine levied, or about to be levied, upon him or her.

(13)  DEPOSIT AND USE OF FEES.--The fees charged applicants for both the required background investigation and the computerized card as provided in this section shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund and shall be used to cover the cost of such service.

(14)  EXEMPTION.--The provisions of this section do not apply to persons who sell or deliver motorized disability access vehicles as defined in s. 320.01.

History.--s. 11, ch. 9157, 1923; CGL 1060, 7452; ss. 1, 2, ch. 23660, 1947; ss. 10, 11, ch. 28186, 1953; s. 1, ch. 57-404; s. 1, ch. 59-238; ss. 1, 2, ch. 63-349; s. 6, ch. 65-190; s. 1, ch. 65-235; s. 1, ch. 67-93; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 200, ch. 71-136; s. 94, ch. 71-377; s. 1, ch. 75-203; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 21, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 77-457; s. 20, ch. 78-95; s. 2, ch. 78-183; ss. 2, 15, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 3, ch. 82-129; s. 24, ch. 82-134; s. 16, ch. 83-218; s. 7, ch. 84-155; s. 4, ch. 85-176; ss. 8, 9, ch. 86-185; s. 22, ch. 86-243; s. 14, ch. 87-161; ss. 2, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 9, ch. 89-333; s. 3, ch. 90-163; s. 246, ch. 91-224; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 68, ch. 93-120; s. 16, ch. 93-219; s. 64, ch. 94-306; s. 916, ch. 95-148; ss. 18, 24, 65, ch. 95-333; s. 43, ch. 96-413; s. 52, ch. 97-100; s. 35, ch. 99-248; ss. 30, 31, ch. 2000-313.

¹Note.--The word "within" was substituted for the word "with" by the editors.

320.271  Used cars; removal of registration license plates.--Each person, upon the sale and delivery of any used or secondhand motor vehicle, shall remove any registration license plate from such motor vehicle before transferring ownership and delivering the motor vehicle to the purchaser.

History.--s. 1, ch. 57-182; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 8, ch. 72-79; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 22, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 15, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.273  Reinstatement of license of motor vehicle dealers.--When the license of a motor vehicle dealer has been revoked or suspended by the department pursuant to the provisions of s. 320.27, the department may for good cause reinstate the license of any former licensee under this law if it determines that said former licensee is rehabilitated, meets the requirements of s. 320.27, files an application for license pursuant to s. 320.27(3), and complies with said section.

History.--s. 2, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; s. 20, ch. 78-95; ss. 15, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.28  Nonresident dealers in secondhand motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or mobile homes.--Every dealer in used or secondhand motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or mobile homes who is a nonresident of the state, does not have a permanent place of business in this state, and has not qualified as a dealer under the provisions of ss. 320.27, 320.77, and 320.771, and any person other than a dealer qualified under the provisions of said ss. 320.27, 320.77, and 320.771, who brings any used or secondhand motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, or mobile home into the state for the purpose of sale, except to a dealer licensed under the provisions of ss. 320.27, 320.77, and 320.771, shall, at least 10 days prior to the sale of said vehicle, the offering of said vehicle for sale, or the advertising of said vehicle for sale, make and file with the department the official application for a certificate of title for said vehicle as provided by law. Any person who has had one or more transactions involving the sale of three or more used or secondhand motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or mobile homes in Florida during any 12-month period shall be deemed to be a secondhand dealer in motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or mobile homes.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 17113, 1935; s. 1, ch. 18032, 1937; CGL 1940 Supp. 1317(1), (6); s. 1, ch. 24192, 1947; s. 1, ch. 25140, 1949; s. 1, ch. 57-388; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 24, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 15, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 25, ch. 95-333.

320.30  Penalty for violating s. 320.28.--No action or right of action to recover any such motor vehicle, or any part of the selling price thereof, shall be maintained in the courts of this state by any such dealer or vendor or his or her successors or assigns in any case wherein such vendor or dealer shall have failed to comply with the terms and provisions of s. 320.28, and in addition thereto, such vendor or dealer, upon conviction for the violation of any of the provisions of said sections, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083 and by confiscation of the vehicle or vehicles offered for sale. Any municipal or county law enforcement agency that enforces, or assists the department in enforcing, the provisions of this section which enforcement results in a forfeiture of property as provided in this section is entitled to receive all or a share of any such property based upon its participation in such enforcement. Any property seized by any municipal or county law enforcement agency may be retained or sold by the law enforcement agency in accordance with the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act. Any funds received by a municipal or county law enforcement agency pursuant to this section constitute supplemental funds and may not be used as replacement funds by the municipality or county. However, this section shall not apply to:

(1)  The holder of a note or notes representing a portion of the purchase price of such motor vehicle when the owner thereof was and is a bona fide purchaser of said note or notes, before maturity, for value and without knowledge that the vendor of such vehicle had not complied with said sections; or

(2)  The bona fide purchaser of such motor vehicle for value and without knowledge that the vendor or dealer of such vehicle had not complied with said sections.

History.--s. 3, ch. 17113, 1935; s. 3, ch. 18032, 1937; CGL 1940 Supp. 1317(3), (8), 8132(1), (2); s. 201, ch. 71-136; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 25, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 15, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 361, ch. 95-148; s. 36, ch. 99-248.

320.31  Definitions covering ss. 320.28 and 320.30.--The terms "dealer" and "vendor," used in ss. 320.28 and 320.30, shall be construed to include every individual, partnership, corporation or trust whose business in whole or in part, is that of selling new or used motor vehicles and likewise shall be construed to include every agent, representative, or consignee of any such dealer as defined above, as fully as if same had been herein expressly set out.

History.--s. 4, ch. 17113, 1935; s. 4, ch. 18032, 1937; CGL 1940 Supp. 1317(4), (9); s. 7, ch. 24337, 1947; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 15, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.37  Registration not to apply to nonresidents.--

(1)  The provisions of this chapter relative to the requirement for registration of motor vehicles and display of license number plates do not apply to a motor vehicle owned by a nonresident of this state if the owner thereof has complied with the provisions of the motor vehicle registration or licensing law of the foreign country, state, territory, or federal district of the owner's residence and conspicuously displays his or her registration number as required thereby.

(2)  The exemption granted by this section does not apply to:

(a)  A foreign corporation doing business in this state;

(b)  Motor vehicles operated for hire, including any motor vehicle used in transporting agricultural or horticultural products or supplies if such vehicle otherwise meets the definition of a "for-hire vehicle";

(c)  Recreational vehicles or mobile homes located in this state for at least 6 consecutive months; or

(d)  Commercial vehicles as defined in s. 316.003.

History.--s. 15, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 1020; s. 1, ch. 9155, 1923; s. 6, ch. 10182, 1925; ss. 1, 2, ch. 10187, 1925; s. 1, ch. 12096, 1927; CGL 1293; s. 8, ch. 78-207; s. 49, ch. 83-318; s. 23, ch. 86-243; s. 362, ch. 95-148.

320.371  Registration not to apply to certain manufacturers and others.--The provisions of this chapter which relate to registration and display of license number plates do not apply to any new automobile or truck, the equitable or legal title to which is vested in a manufacturer, distributor, importer, or exporter and which has never been transferred to an ultimate purchaser, if the vehicle is in the care, custody, and control of a vehicle servicing, processing, and handling agency or organization for the performance of such services and the export of such vehicle from the state or its distribution in the state, provided such agency or organization conspicuously displays on the vehicle its name and address on a temporary 5-inch by 12-inch sign that includes the legend "has custody of this vehicle." Nothing in this section may be construed to relieve such vehicle servicing, processing, and handling agency or organization which has such custody and control of such vehicle from complying with and abiding by all other applicable laws, rules, and regulations relating to safety of operation of motor vehicles and the preservation of the highways of this state.

History.--s. 50, ch. 83-318.

320.38  When nonresident exemption not allowed.--The provisions of s. 320.37 authorizing the operation of motor vehicles over the roads of this state by nonresidents of this state when such vehicles are duly registered or licensed under the laws of some other state or foreign country do not apply to any nonresident who accepts employment or engages in any trade, profession, or occupation in this state, except a nonresident migrant farm worker as defined in s. 316.003(61). In every case in which a nonresident, except a nonresident migrant farm worker as defined in s. 316.003(61), accepts employment or engages in any trade, profession, or occupation in this state or enters his or her children to be educated in the public schools of this state, such nonresident shall, within 10 days after the commencement of such employment or education, register his or her motor vehicles in this state if such motor vehicles are proposed to be operated on the roads of this state. Any person who is enrolled as a student in a college or university and who is a nonresident but who is in this state for a period of up to 6 months engaged in a work-study program for which academic credits are earned from a college whose credits or degrees are accepted for credit by at least three accredited institutions of higher learning, as defined in s. 246.021, is not required to have a Florida registration for the duration of the work-study program if the person's vehicle is properly registered in another jurisdiction. Any nonresident who is enrolled as a full-time student in such institution of higher learning is also exempt for the duration of such enrollment.

History.--s. 6, ch. 7275, 1917; s. 1, ch. 7737, 1918; RGS 1011; s. 5, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 3, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1285; s. 3, ch. 15625, 1931; s. 3, ch. 16085, 1933; s. 1, ch. 19252, 1939; s. 1, ch. 69-153; s. 1, ch. 69-156; s. 2, ch. 82-112; s. 51, ch. 83-318; s. 28, ch. 91-221; s. 363, ch. 95-148; s. 6, ch. 97-218.

320.39  Reciprocal agreements for nonresident exemption.--

(1)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles may negotiate and consummate with the proper authorities of the several states of the United States or any foreign country reciprocal agreements whereby residents of such other states or foreign country operating motor vehicles properly licensed and registered in their respective states or foreign country may have such privileges and exemption in the operation of their motor vehicles in this state as residents of this state whose vehicles are properly registered in this state may have and enjoy in the operation of their motor vehicles in such other states or foreign country. However, nothing herein may be construed to relieve any motor vehicle owner or operator from complying with and abiding by all other applicable laws and rules relating to safety of operation of motor vehicles and the preservation of the highways of this state. In the making of such reciprocal agreements, such departments shall have due regard for the benefits to be achieved for and the convenience of motor vehicle owners and the citizens of this state.

(2)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is authorized to continue membership in the International Registration Plan, a reciprocal agreement among the states and the provinces of Canada which provides for proportional payment of license fees.

(3)  No such reciprocal agreement consummated by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles may become effective until approved by the Governor; and all such reciprocal agreements shall be made subject to cancellation at any time by the Legislature.

(4)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall give proper publicity to the terms of every such reciprocal agreement.

History.--ss. 1-3, ch. 19479, 1939; CGL 1940 Supp. 1326(2)-(4); s. 1, ch. 24095, 1947; s. 1, ch. 63-279; s. 2, ch. 63-496; s. 1, ch. 65-52; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 23, 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 2, ch. 73-326; s. 26, ch. 77-357; s. 4, ch. 82-129; s. 52, ch. 83-318; s. 12, ch. 84-260; s. 54, ch. 85-180.

320.405  International Registration Plan; inspection of records; hearings.--

(1)  The department or any authorized agent thereof is authorized to examine the records, books, papers, and equipment of any motor carrier that are deemed necessary to verify the truth and accuracy of any statement or report and ascertain whether the tax imposed by s. 320.08(4) and (5) has been paid.

(2)  The department or any of its duly authorized agents shall have the power in the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter to hold hearings, to administer oaths to witnesses, and to take the sworn testimony of any person and cause it to be transcribed into writing; for such purposes, the department shall be authorized to issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum and conduct such investigations as it deems necessary.

(3)  If any person unreasonably refuses access to such records, books, papers, other documents, or equipment, or if any person fails or refuses to obey such subpoenas duces tecum or to testify, except for lawful reasons, before the department or any of its authorized agents, the department shall certify the names and facts to the clerk of the circuit court of any county, and the circuit court shall enter such order against such person in the premises as the enforcement of this chapter requires.

(4)  In any action or proceeding for the collection of the tax and penalties or interest imposed in connection therewith, an assessment by the department of the amount of the tax, penalties, or interest due shall be prima facie evidence of the claim of the state, and the burden of proof shall be upon the person charged to show that the assessment was incorrect and contrary to law.

History.--s. 32, ch. 87-198.

320.406  Estimate of amount of tax due and unpaid.--

(1)  Whenever any motor carrier neglects or refuses to make and file any report for any reporting period as required by this chapter or files an incorrect or fraudulent report, or is in default in the payment of any taxes and penalties thereon payable under this chapter, the department, after giving at least 10 days' notice to the motor carrier, shall, from any information it may be able to obtain from its office or elsewhere, estimate the number of miles driven with respect to which the motor carrier has become liable for taxes due under this chapter including taxes due to the applicable International Registration Plan member jurisdiction and the amount of taxes due and payable thereon, to which sum shall be added the penalties and interest required under this chapter.

(2)  In any action or proceeding for the collection of the tax and any penalties or interest imposed in connection therewith, an assessment by the department in the amount of the tax due and the interest or penalties due to the state shall constitute prima facie evidence of the claim of the state, and the burden of proof shall be upon the motor carrier to show that the assessment was incorrect or contrary to law.

History.--s. 33, ch. 87-198.

320.407  Suits for collection of unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest.--Upon demand of the department, the Department of Legal Affairs or the state attorney for a judicial circuit shall bring appropriate actions, in the name of the state or in the name of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in the capacity of its office, for the recovery of taxes, penalties, and interest due from any motor carrier under this chapter, and judgment shall be rendered for the amount so found to be due together with costs. However, if it shall be found as a fact that a violation of this chapter was willful on the part of any motor carrier, judgment shall be rendered for double the amount of the tax found to be due with costs. The department may employ an attorney at law to institute and prosecute proper proceedings to enforce payment of the taxes, penalties, and interest provided for by this chapter and may fix the compensation for the services of such attorney at law.

History.--s. 34, ch. 87-198.

320.408  Departmental warrant for collection of unpaid taxes and penalties due from motor carriers.--

(1)  Upon the determination of the amount of unpaid taxes and penalties due from a motor carrier, the department may issue a warrant, under its official seal, directed to the sheriff of any county of the state, commanding the sheriff to levy upon and sell the goods and chattels of such motor carrier found within the sheriff's jurisdiction for the payment of the amount of such delinquency, with the added penalties and interest and the cost of executing the warrant and conducting the sale, and to return such warrant to the department and pay the department the money collected by virtue thereof. However, any surplus resulting from such sale after all payments of costs, penalties, and delinquent taxes have been made shall be returned to the defaulting motor carrier.

(2)  The sheriff to whom any such warrant is directed shall proceed upon the same in the same manner as prescribed by law in respect to executions issued against goods and chattels upon judgment by the several circuit courts, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.

(3)  In the event there is a contest or claim of any kind with reference to the property levied upon or the amount of taxes, costs, or penalties due, such contest or claim shall be tried in the circuit court in and for the county in which the warrant was executed, as nearly as may be in the same manner and means as such contest or claim would have been tried in such court had the warrant originally issued upon a judgment rendered by such court. The warrant issued as provided in this section shall constitute prima facie evidence of the amount of taxes, interest, and penalties due to the state by the motor carrier, and the burden of proof shall be upon the motor carrier to show that the amounts or penalties were incorrect.

(4)  Nothing in this section shall be construed as forfeiting or waiving any rights to collect such taxes or penalties by an action upon any bonds that may be filed with the department under the provisions of this chapter or by suit or otherwise; in case such suit, action, or other proceeding is instituted for the collection of the tax, such suit, action, or other proceeding shall not be construed as waiving any other right herein provided. Any civil proceeding under this chapter shall not be construed as a waiver or as an estoppel in any criminal proceeding against a motor carrier under this chapter.

History.--s. 35, ch. 87-198; s. 364, ch. 95-148.

320.409  Tax lien on property.--If any motor carrier liable for the tax imposed by this chapter neglects or refuses to pay it, the amount of the tax, including any interest, penalty, or addition to the tax, with any cost that may accrue in addition thereto, shall be a lien in favor of the state upon all franchises, property, and rights to property, whether real or personal, then belonging to or thereafter acquired by the motor carrier, whether the property is employed by the motor carrier in the prosecution of business or is in the hands of an assignee, trustee, or receiver for the benefit of creditors, from the date the taxes are due and payable. The lien shall have priority over any lien or encumbrance whatsoever, except the lien of other state taxes having priority by law, and except that the lien shall not be valid as against any bona fide mortgagee, pledgee, judgment creditor, or purchaser whose rights attached before the time when the department filed claim of lien, for which no filing fee shall be required, in the office of the clerk of the circuit court of the county where the principal place of business of the motor carrier is located or, if the motor carrier has no principal place of business in the state, in the office of the Department of State. The lien shall continue until the amount of the tax, with any penalties and interest subsequently accruing, is paid or until the tax is barred under chapter 95. The department may issue a certificate of release of lien when the amount of the tax, with any penalties and interest subsequently accruing thereon, has been satisfied by the motor carrier, and the motor carrier may record it with the clerk of the circuit court of the county where the claim of lien was filed.

History.--s. 36, ch. 87-198.

320.411  Officer's sale of property or franchise.--

(1)  No sheriff, receiver, assignee, master, or other officer shall sell the property or franchise of any motor carrier for failure to pay taxes, penalties, or interest without first filing with the department a statement containing the following information:

(a)  The name of the plaintiff or party at whose instance or upon whose account the sale is made.

(b)  The name of the motor carrier whose property or franchise is to be sold.

(c)  The time and place of sale.

(d)  The nature of the property and the location of the same.

(2)  The department, after receiving notice as provided in subsection (1), shall furnish to the sheriff, receiver, trustee, assignee, master, or other officer having charge of the sale a certified copy of all taxes, penalties, and interest on file in the office of the department as liens against such motor carrier and, in the event there are no such liens, a certificate showing that fact, which certified copy or copies of certificate shall be publicly read by such officer at and immediately before the sale of the property or franchise of such motor carrier.

History.--s. 37, ch. 87-198.

320.412  Department to furnish certificate of liens.--The department shall furnish to any person applying therefor a certificate showing the amount of all liens for tax, penalties, and interest that may be of record in the files of the department against any motor carrier under the provisions of this chapter.

History.--s. 38, ch. 87-198.

320.413  Discontinuance or transfer of business; change of address.--

(1)  Whenever a person ceases to engage in business as a motor carrier by reason of the discontinuance, sale, or transfer of the business of such person, he or she shall notify the department in writing at least 10 days prior to the time the discontinuance, sale, or transfer takes effect. Such notice shall give the date of discontinuance and, in the event of a sale or transfer of the business, the date thereof and the name and address of the purchaser or transferee. All taxes shall become due and payable concurrently with such discontinuance, sale, or transfer, and any such person shall, concurrently with such discontinuance, sale, or transfer, make a report, pay all such taxes, interest, and penalties, and surrender to the department the motor vehicle registration or registrations issued to such person.

(2)  Unless notice has been given to the department as provided in subsection (1), such purchaser or transferee is liable to the state for the amount of all taxes, penalties, and interest under the laws of this state accrued against the person selling or transferring his or her business on the date of such sale or transfer, but only to the extent of the value of the property and business thereby acquired from such motor carrier.

(3)  Nothing in this section shall be construed as releasing the motor carrier so transferring or discontinuing his or her business from liability for any taxes or for any interest or penalty due under the provisions of this chapter.

(4)  Every motor carrier shall submit in writing to the department any change in address of his or her principal place of business within 10 days after such change becomes effective.

History.--s. 39, ch. 87-198; s. 365, ch. 95-148.

320.414  Restraining and enjoining violation.--In a suit or other proceeding instituted in any court of competent jurisdiction in the name of the state by the Department of Legal Affairs or by a state attorney at the direction of the department, any motor carrier who violates any of the provisions of this chapter or who fails to pay the taxes and all interest and penalties due by the motor carrier to the state or the International Registration Plan under the provisions of this chapter may be restrained and enjoined from operating any commercial motor vehicle within this state until such motor carrier has paid all of such taxes, interest, and penalties due the state and has complied with the provisions of this chapter. Any proceeding instituted under this section shall not operate as a bar to the prosecution of any person guilty of violating any of the criminal laws of the state.

History.--s. 40, ch. 87-198; s. 366, ch. 95-148.

320.415  Authority to inspect vehicles and seize property.--

(1)  As a part of their responsibilities when inspecting commercial motor vehicles, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Department of Transportation shall ensure that all vehicles are in compliance with the provisions of this chapter.

(2)  Commercial motor vehicles owned or operated by any motor carrier who refuses to comply with this chapter may be seized by authorized agents or employees of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, or the Department of Transportation.

History.--s. 41, ch. 87-198.

320.416  Cooperation of other state agencies in administration of law.--The department is empowered to call on any state agency, department, bureau, or board for any and all information which, in its judgment, may be of assistance in administering or preparing for the administration of this chapter, and such state agency, department, bureau, or board is authorized, directed, and required to furnish such information.

History.--s. 42, ch. 87-198.

320.417  Foreclosure of liens.--The department may file an action in the name of the state to foreclose the liens provided for in this chapter. The procedure shall be the same as the procedure for foreclosure of mortgages on real estate. A certificate of the department setting forth the amount of taxes due shall be prima facie evidence of the matter therein contained. The action may be instituted at any time after the lien becomes effective and before it is barred under chapter 95. The title to the land conveyed by such deed shall be indefeasible as to all parties defendant in the action.

History.--s. 43, ch. 87-198.

320.51  Farm tractors and farm trailers exempt.--The following are exempt from the provisions of this chapter which require the registration of motor vehicles, the payment of license taxes, and the display of license plates:

(1)  A motor vehicle which is operated principally on a farm, grove, or orchard in agricultural or horticultural pursuits and which is operated on the roads of this state only incidentally in going from the owner's or operator's headquarters to such farm, grove, or orchard and returning therefrom or in going from one farm, grove, or orchard to another; and

(2)  A vehicle without motive power which is used principally for the purpose of transporting plows, harrows, fertilizer distributors, spray machines, and other farm or grove equipment and which uses the roads of this state only incidentally.

Nothing in this section shall be construed as exempting such farm tractors and farm trailers from laws relating to the tires to be used when operating on the roads of this state.

History.--s. 2, ch. 20911, 1941; s. 53, ch. 83-318.

320.525  Port vehicles and equipment; definition; exemption.--

(1)  As used in this section, the term "port vehicles and equipment" means trucks, tractors, trailers, truck cranes, top loaders, fork lifts, hostling tractors, chassis, or other vehicles or equipment used for transporting cargo, containers, or other equipment.

(2)  Port vehicles and equipment shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter which require the registration of motor vehicles, the payment of license taxes, and the display of license plates when operated or used within the port facility of any deepwater port of this state, as listed in s. 403.021(9)(b), for the purpose of transporting cargo, containers, or other equipment:

(a)  From wharves to storage areas or terminals and return to wharves within the port; and

(b)  From such storage areas or terminals to other storage areas or terminals within the port.

(3)  The incidental operation of port vehicles or equipment on the roads of this state within the port facility of any deepwater port of this state, as listed in s. 403.021(9)(b), while being operated for the purposes described in subsection (2) shall not deprive such vehicle of the exemption otherwise provided for in this section.

History.--s. 1, ch. 92-197.

320.535  Airport vehicles and equipment; definition; exemption.--

(1)  As used in this section, the term "airport fuel trucks and equipment" means trucks, trailers, containers, and other vehicles or equipment used for transporting aviation fuel.

(2)  Airport fuel trucks and equipment shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter which require the registration of motor vehicles, the payment of license taxes, and the display of license plates when operated or used for the purpose of transporting aviation fuel within the airport facility of any public-use airport of this state.

(3)  The incidental operation of airport fuel trucks or equipment on the roads of this state within the airport facility while being operated for the purposes described in subsection (2) shall not deprive such vehicles of the exemption otherwise provided for in this section.

History.--s. 48, ch. 97-300.

320.57  Penalties for violations of this chapter.--

(1)  Any person convicted of violating any of the provisions of this chapter is, unless otherwise provided herein, guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(2)  The owner of a truck tractor and semitrailer combination or commercial truck and trailer combination, the actual gross vehicle weight of which exceeds the declared weight for registration purposes, is required to pay to the department the difference between the license tax amount paid and the required license tax due for the proper gross vehicle weight prescribed by s. 320.08(4), plus a civil penalty of $50.

History.--s. 26, ch. 7275, 1917; RGS 5605; s. 14, ch. 8410, 1921; s. 7, ch. 10186, 1925; CGL 7792, 7793; s. 202, ch. 71-136; s. 54, ch. 83-318; s. 44, ch. 87-198.

320.571  Failure of person charged with misdemeanor under this chapter to comply with court-ordered directives; suspension of license.--Any person who has been charged with the commission of an offense which constitutes a misdemeanor under this chapter and who fails to comply with all of the directives of the court is subject to the provisions of s. 322.245.

History.--s. 21, ch. 84-359.

¹320.58  Compliance examiners; powers, appointment.--The department shall appoint as many compliance examiners and supervisors as it deems necessary to enforce the provisions of this chapter.

History.--s. 7, ch. 10182, 1925; CGL 1305; s. 46, ch. 26869, 1951; s. 19, ch. 63-400; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 73-305; s. 27, ch. 77-357; s. 55, ch. 83-318; s. 3, ch. 88-253; s. 39, ch. 91-224; s. 367, ch. 95-148; ss. 50, 51, ch. 2000-171.

¹Note.--

A.  Section 50, ch. 2000-171, amended s. 320.58 "[i]n order to implement Specific Appropriations 2128-2132 of the 2000-2001 General Appropriations Act."

B.  Section 51, ch. 2000-171, provides that "[t]he amendment of section 320.58, Florida Statutes, by this act shall expire on July 1, 2001, and the text of said section shall revert to that in existence on June 30, 2000, except that any amendments to such text enacted other than by this act shall be preserved and continue to operate to the extent that such amendments are not dependent upon the portions of said text which expire pursuant to the provisions of this act. The Division of Statutory Revision of the Office of Legislative Services shall include in an appropriate reviser's bill any amendments to said section which are necessary to give effect to the legislative intent expressed in this section." Effective July 1, 2001, s. 320.58, as amended by s. 51, ch. 2000-171, will read:

320.58  License inspectors; powers, appointment.--

(1)(a)  The department shall appoint as many license inspectors and supervisors as it deems necessary to enforce the provisions of this chapter and chapters 319, 322, and 324. In order to enforce the provisions of these laws, the inspectors are empowered to enter on both publicly owned and privately owned property and to issue uniform traffic citations to persons found in violation thereof. The department is further empowered to delegate the power to issue uniform traffic citations to persons acting as its agents for the purpose of enforcing the registration provisions of this chapter, which may include, but not be limited to, personnel employed by district school boards as agreed to by the school board and the county tax collector.

(b)  License inspectors appointed pursuant to this section and agents delegated by the department are not to be considered for membership in the state high-risk retirement program.

(2)  Any person who fails or refuses to surrender his or her driver's license, registration certificate, and license plate upon lawful demand of an inspector, supervisor, or authorized agent of the department is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

320.60  Definitions for ss. 320.61-320.70.--Whenever used in ss. 320.61-320.70, unless the context otherwise requires, the following words and terms have the following meanings:

(1)  "Agreement" or "franchise agreement" means a contract, franchise, new motor vehicle franchise, sales and service agreement, or dealer agreement or any other terminology used to describe the contractual relationship between a manufacturer, factory branch, distributor, or importer, and a motor vehicle dealer, pursuant to which the motor vehicle dealer is authorized to transact business pertaining to motor vehicles of a particular line-make.

(2)  "Common entity" means a person:

(a)  Who is either controlled or owned, beneficially or of record, by one or more persons who also control or own more than 40 percent of the voting equity interests of a manufacturer; or

(b)  Who shares directors or officers or partners with a manufacturer.

(3)  "Demonstrator" means any new motor vehicle which is carried on the records of the dealer as a demonstrator and is used by, being inspected or driven by the dealer or his or her employees or prospective customers for the purpose of demonstrating vehicle characteristics in the sale or display of motor vehicles sold by the dealer.

(4)  "Department" means the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

(5)  "Distributor" means a person, resident or nonresident, who, in whole or in part, sells or distributes motor vehicles to motor vehicle dealers or who maintains distributor representatives.

(6)  "Factory branch" means a branch office maintained by a manufacturer, distributor, or importer for the sale of motor vehicles to distributors or to motor vehicle dealers, or for directing or supervising, in whole or in part, its representatives in this state.

(7)  "Importer" means any person who imports vehicles from a foreign country into the United States or into this state for the purpose of sale or lease.

(8)  "Licensee" means any person licensed or required to be licensed under s. 320.61.

(9)  "Manufacturer" means any person, whether a resident or nonresident of this state, who manufactures or assembles motor vehicles or who manufactures or installs on previously assembled truck chassis special bodies or equipment which, when installed, form an integral part of the motor vehicle and which constitute a major manufacturing alteration. The term "manufacturer" includes a central or principal sales corporation or other entity through which, by contractual agreement or otherwise, it distributes its products.

(10)  "Motor vehicle" means any new automobile, motorcycle, or truck the equitable or legal title to which has never been transferred by a manufacturer, distributor, importer, or dealer to an ultimate purchaser; however, when legal title is not transferred but possession of a motor vehicle is transferred pursuant to a conditional sales contract or lease and the conditions are not satisfied and the vehicle is returned to the motor vehicle dealer, the motor vehicle may be resold by the motor vehicle dealer as a new motor vehicle, provided the selling motor vehicle dealer gives the following written notice to the purchaser: "THIS VEHICLE WAS DELIVERED TO A PREVIOUS PURCHASER." The purchaser shall sign an acknowledgment, a copy of which is kept in the selling dealer's file.

(11)(a)  "Motor vehicle dealer" means any person, firm, or corporation who, for commission, money or other things of value, repairs or services motor vehicles or used motor vehicles pursuant to an agreement as defined in subsection (1), or sells, exchanges, buys, or rents, or offers, or attempts to negotiate a sale or exchange of any interest in, motor vehicles or who is engaged wholly or in part in the business of selling motor vehicles, whether or not such motor vehicles are owned by such person, firm, or corporation.

(b)  Any person who repairs or services three or more motor vehicles or used motor vehicles as set forth in paragraph (a), or who buys, sells, or deals in three or more motor vehicles in any 12-month period or who offers or displays for sale three or more motor vehicles in any 12-month period shall be prima facie presumed to be a motor vehicle dealer. The terms "selling" and "sale" include lease-purchase transactions.

(c)  The term "motor vehicle dealer" does not include:

1.  Public officers while performing their official duties;

2.  Receivers, trustees, administrators, executors, guardians, or other persons appointed by, or acting under the judgment or order of, any court;

3.  Banks, finance companies, or other loan agencies that acquire motor vehicles as an incident to their regular business; or

4.  Motor vehicle rental and leasing companies that sell motor vehicles to motor vehicle dealers licensed under s. 320.27.

(12)  "Person" means any natural person, partnership, firm, corporation, association, joint venture, trust, or other legal entity.

(13)  "Used motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle title to or possession of which has been transferred from the person who first acquired it from the manufacturer, distributor, importer, or dealer and which is commonly known as "secondhand" within the ordinary meaning thereof.

(14)  "Line-make vehicles" are those motor vehicles which are offered for sale, lease, or distribution under a common name, trademark, service mark, or brand name of the manufacturer of same.

History.--s. 1, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 7, ch. 22858, 1945; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 4, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 95, ch. 71-377; s. 1, ch. 72-112; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 28, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 77-457; s. 129, ch. 79-400; ss. 16, 17, 18, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 1, ch. 84-69; ss. 3, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 17, ch. 93-219; s. 368, ch. 95-148; s. 32, ch. 2000-313.

320.605  Legislative intent.--It is the intent of the Legislature to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the state by regulating the licensing of motor vehicle dealers and manufacturers, maintaining competition, providing consumer protection and fair trade and providing minorities with opportunities for full participation as motor vehicle dealers.

History.--ss. 4, 22, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.61  Licenses required of motor vehicle manufacturers, distributors, importers, etc.--

(1)  No manufacturer, factory branch, distributor, or importer (all sometimes referred to hereinafter as "licensee") shall engage in business in this state without a license therefor as provided in ss. 320.60-320.70. No motor vehicle, foreign or domestic, may be sold, leased, or offered for sale or lease in this state unless the manufacturer, importer, or distributor of such motor vehicle, which issues an agreement to a motor vehicle dealer in this state, is licensed under ss. 320.60-320.70.

(2)  The department may prescribe an abbreviated application for renewal of a license if the licensee had previously filed an initial application pursuant to s. 320.63. The application for renewal shall include any information necessary to bring current the information required in the initial application.

(3)  All licenses shall be granted or refused within 30 days after application.

(4)  When a complaint of unfair cancellation of a dealer agreement is made by a motor vehicle dealer against a licensee and is in the process of being heard pursuant to ss. 320.60-320.70 by the department, no replacement application for such agreement shall be granted until a final decision is rendered by the department on the complaint of unfair cancellation.

(5)  Any manufacturer, distributor, or importer, who obtains a license under this section, is engaged in business in this state and is subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state pursuant to chapter 48. Any manufacturer not licensed under this section, who is a manufacturer of motor vehicles of a recognized line-make which are sold or leased in this state pursuant to a plan, system, or channel of distribution established, approved, authorized or known to the manufacturer, shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state in any action seeking relief under or to enforce any of the remedies or penalties provided in ss. 320.60-320.70.

History.--s. 2, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 5, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; s. 20, ch. 78-95; ss. 4, 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 2, ch. 84-69; ss. 5, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.615  Agent for service of process.--The acceptance by any person of a license under ss. 320.60-320.70 shall be deemed equivalent to an appointment by such person of the Secretary of State as the agent of such person upon whom may be served all lawful process in any action, suit, or proceeding against such person arising out of any transaction or operation connected with or incidental to any activities of such person carried on under such license, and the acceptance of such license shall be signification of the agreement of such person that any process against him or her which is so served shall be of the same legal force and validity as if served personally on the person. Service of such process shall be in accordance with and in the same manner as now provided for service of process upon nonresidents under the provisions of chapter 48.

History.--s. 6, ch. 70-424; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 369, ch. 95-148.

320.62  Licenses; amount; disposition of proceeds.--The initial license for each manufacturer, distributor, or importer shall be $300 and shall be in addition to all other licenses or taxes now or hereafter levied, assessed, or required of the applicant or licensee. The annual renewal license fee shall be $100. The proceeds from all licenses under ss. 320.60-320.70 shall be paid into the State Treasury to the credit of the General Revenue Fund. All licenses shall be payable on or before October 1 of each year and shall expire, unless sooner revoked or suspended, on the following September 30.

History.--s. 3, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 47, ch. 26869, 1951; s. 7, ch. 70-424; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 5, 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 5, ch. 85-176; ss. 6, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.63  Application for license; contents.--Any person desiring to be licensed pursuant to ss. 320.60-320.70 shall make application therefor to the department upon a form containing such information as the department requires. The department shall require, with such application or otherwise and from time to time, all of the following, which information may be considered by the department in determining the fitness of the applicant or licensee to engage in the business for which the applicant or licensee desires to be licensed:

(1)  Information relating to the applicant's or licensee's solvency and financial standing.

(2)  A certified copy of the applicant's or licensee's new motor vehicle warranty or warranties in any way connected with a motor vehicle or any component thereof, accompanied by a detailed explanation thereof.

(3)  From each manufacturer, distributor, or importer which utilizes an identical blanket basic agreement for its dealers or distributors in this state, which agreement comprises all or any part of the applicant's or licensee's agreements with motor vehicle dealers in this state, a copy of the written agreement and all supplements thereto, together with a list of the applicant's or licensee's authorized dealers or distributors and their addresses. The applicant or licensee shall further notify the department immediately of the appointment of any additional dealer or distributor. The applicant or licensee shall annually report to the department on its efforts to add new minority dealer points, including difficulties encountered under ss. 320.61-320.70. For purposes of this section "minority" shall have the same meaning as that given it in the definition of "minority person" in s. 288.703(3). Not later than 60 days prior to the date a revision or modification to a franchise agreement is offered uniformly to a licensee's motor vehicle dealers in this state, the licensee shall notify the department of such revision, modification, or addition to the franchise agreement on file with the department. In no event may a franchise agreement, or any addendum or supplement thereto, be offered to a motor vehicle dealer in this state until the applicant or licensee files an affidavit with the department acknowledging that the terms or provisions of the agreement, or any related document, are not inconsistent with, prohibited by, or contrary to the provisions contained in ss. 320.60-320.70. Any franchise agreement offered to a motor vehicle dealer in this state shall provide that all terms and conditions in such agreement inconsistent with the law and rules of this state are of no force and effect.

(4)  A certified copy of the delivery and preparation obligations of its motor vehicle dealers.

(5)  An affidavit stating the rates which the applicant or licensee pays or agrees to pay any authorized motor vehicle dealer licensed in this state for the parts and labor advanced or incurred by such authorized motor vehicle dealer for or on account of any delivery and preparation obligations imposed by the applicant or the licensee on its dealers or relating to warranty obligations which the applicant or licensee or its principle is obligated to perform.

(6)  The fee for the annual license.

(7)  Any other pertinent matter commensurate with the safeguarding of the public interest which the department, by rule, prescribes.

History.--s. 4, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 8, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 3, ch. 84-69; ss. 7, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 370, ch. 95-148.

320.64  Denial, suspension, or revocation of license; grounds.--A license may be denied, suspended, or revoked within the entire state or at any specific location or locations within the state at which the applicant or licensee engages or proposes to engage in business, upon proof that an applicant or licensee has failed to comply with any of the following provisions with sufficient frequency so as to establish a pattern of wrongdoing on the part of the applicant:

(1)  The applicant or licensee is determined to be unable to carry out contractual obligations with its motor vehicle dealers.

(2)  The applicant or licensee has knowingly made a material misstatement in its application for a license.

(3)  The applicant or licensee willfully has failed to comply with significant provisions of ss. 320.60-320.70 or with any lawful rule or regulation adopted or promulgated by the department.

(4)  The applicant or licensee has indulged in any illegal act relating to his or her business.

(5)  The applicant or licensee has coerced or attempted to coerce any motor vehicle dealer into accepting delivery of any motor vehicle or vehicles or parts or accessories therefor or any other commodities which have not been ordered by the dealer.

(6)  The applicant or licensee has coerced or attempted to coerce any motor vehicle dealer to enter into any agreement with the licensee.

(7)  The applicant or licensee has threatened to discontinue, cancel, or not to renew a franchise agreement of a licensed motor vehicle dealer, where the threatened discontinuation, cancellation, or nonrenewal, if implemented, would be in violation of any of the provisions of s. 320.641.

(8)  The applicant or licensee discontinued, canceled, or failed to renew, a franchise agreement of a licensed motor vehicle dealer in violation of any of the provisions of s. 320.641.

(9)  The applicant or licensee has threatened to modify or replace, or has modified or replaced, a franchise agreement with a succeeding franchise agreement which would adversely alter the rights or obligations of a motor vehicle dealer under an existing franchise agreement or which substantially impairs the sales, service obligations, or investment of the motor vehicle dealer.

(10)  The applicant or licensee has attempted to enter, or has entered, into a franchise agreement with a motor vehicle dealer who does not, at the time of the franchise agreement, have proper facilities to provide the services to his or her purchasers of new motor vehicles which are covered by the new motor vehicle warranty issued by the applicant or licensee.

(11)  The applicant or licensee has coerced a motor vehicle dealer to provide installment financing for the motor vehicle dealer's purchasers with a specified financial institution.

(12)  The applicant or licensee has advertised, printed, displayed, published, distributed, broadcast, or televised, or caused or permitted to be advertised, printed, displayed, published, distributed, broadcast, or televised, in any manner whatsoever, any statement or representation with regard to the sale or financing of motor vehicles which is false, deceptive, or misleading.

(13)  The applicant or licensee has refused to deliver, in reasonable quantities and within a reasonable time, to any duly licensed motor vehicle dealer who has an agreement with such applicant or licensee for the retail sale of new motor vehicles and parts for motor vehicles sold or distributed by the applicant or licensee, any such motor vehicles or parts as are covered by such agreement specifically publicly advertised by such applicant or licensee to be available for immediate delivery. However, the failure to deliver any motor vehicle or part will not be considered a violation of this section if the failure is due to act of God, work stoppage, or delay due to a strike or labor difficulty, a freight embargo, product shortage, or other cause over which the applicant or licensee has no control. The failure to deliver parts or components for the current and 5 preceding years' models within 60 days from date of order shall be deemed prima facie unreasonable.

(14)  The applicant or licensee has sold, exchanged, or rented a motorcycle which produces in excess of 5 brake horsepower, knowing the use thereof to be by, or intended for, the holder of a restricted Florida driver's license.

(15)  The applicant or licensee has engaged in previous conduct which would have been a ground for revocation or suspension of a license if the applicant or licensee had been licensed.

(16)  Notwithstanding the terms of any franchise agreement, and unless it can be shown that the licensee's franchised dealer is actively negligent, the applicant or licensee has failed to indemnify and hold harmless its franchised motor vehicle dealer against any judgment for damages or settlement agreed to in writing by the applicant or licensee, including, but not limited to, court costs and reasonable attorney's fees of the motor vehicle dealer, which judgment or settlement arose out of complaints, claims, or lawsuits based upon such grounds as strict liability; negligence; misrepresentation; warranty, express or implied; or rescission of the sale as described in s. 672.608, less any offset for use recovered by the licensee's franchised motor vehicle dealer, and only to the extent that the judgment or settlement relates to the alleged defective or negligent manufacture, assembly, or design of new motor vehicles, parts, or accessories or other functions of the manufacturer.

(17)  The applicant or licensee, directly or indirectly, through the actions of any parent of the licensee, subsidiary of the licensee, or common entity causes a termination, cancellation, or nonrenewal of a franchise agreement by a present or previous distributor or importer unless, by the effective date of such action, the applicant or licensee offers the motor vehicle dealer whose franchise agreement is terminated, canceled, or not renewed a franchise agreement containing substantially the same provisions contained in the previous franchise agreement or files an affidavit with the department acknowledging its undertaking to assume and fulfill the rights, duties, and obligations of its predecessor distributor or importer under the terminated, canceled, or nonrenewed franchise agreement and the same is reinstated.

(18)  Notwithstanding the terms of any franchise agreement, the applicant or licensee prevents or refuses to accept the succession to any interest in a franchise agreement by any legal heir or devisee under the will of a motor vehicle dealer or under the laws of descent and distribution of this state; provided, the applicant or licensee is not required to accept a succession where such heir or devisee does not meet licensee's written, reasonable, and uniformly applied minimal standard qualifications for dealer applicants or which, after notice and administrative hearing pursuant to chapter 120, is demonstrated to be detrimental to the public interest or to the representation of the applicant or licensee. Nothing contained herein, however, shall prevent a motor vehicle dealer, during his or her lifetime, from designating any person as his or her successor in interest by written instrument filed with and accepted by the applicant or licensee. A licensee who rejects the successor transferee under this subsection shall have the burden of establishing in any proceeding where such rejection is in issue that the rejection of the successor transferee complies with this subsection.

(19)  The applicant or licensee has included in any franchise agreement with a motor vehicle dealer terms or provisions that are contrary to, prohibited by, or otherwise inconsistent with the provisions contained in ss. 320.60-320.70, or has failed to include in such franchise agreement a provision conforming to the requirements of s. 320.63(3).

(20)  The applicant or licensee has established a system of motor vehicle allocation or distribution or has implemented a system of allocation or distribution of motor vehicles to one or more of its franchised motor vehicle dealers which is unfair, inequitable, unreasonably discriminatory, or not supportable by reason and good cause after considering the equities of the affected motor vehicles dealer or dealers.

(21)  The applicant or licensee, without good and fair cause, has delayed, refused, or failed to provide a supply of motor vehicles by series in reasonable quantities, including the models publicly advertised by the applicant or licensee as being available, or has delayed, refused, or failed to deliver motor vehicle parts and accessories within a reasonable time after receipt of an order by a franchised dealer. However, this subsection is not violated if such failure is caused by acts or causes beyond the control of the applicant or licensee.

(22)  The applicant or licensee has required, or threatened to require, a motor vehicle dealer to prospectively assent to a release, assignment, novation, waiver, or estoppel, which instrument or document operates, or is intended by the applicant or licensee to operate, to relieve any person from any liability or obligation under the provisions of ss. 320.60-320.70.

(23)  The applicant or licensee has threatened or coerced a motor vehicle dealer toward conduct or action whereby the dealer would waive or forego its right to protest the establishment or relocation of a motor vehicle dealer in the community or territory serviced by the threatened or coerced dealer.

A motor vehicle dealer who can demonstrate that a violation of, or failure to comply with, any of the preceding provisions by an applicant or licensee will or can adversely and pecuniarily affect the complaining dealer, shall be entitled to pursue all of the remedies, procedures, and rights of recovery available under ss. 320.695 and 320.697.

History.--s. 5, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 4, ch. 59-351; s. 9, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 1, ch. 83-105; s. 5, ch. 84-69; s. 15, ch. 87-161; ss. 8, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 371, ch. 95-148.

320.6403  Distributor agreements; obligations of manufacturer and importer.--Notwithstanding the terms of any agreement to the contrary, no manufacturer or importer subject to the jurisdiction of this state shall:

(1)  Prevent or refuse to accept the succession to any interest in any distributor's agreement with the manufacturer or importer by any legal heir, beneficiary, devisee, or distributee who has duly established his or her right to the decedent's interest in any distribution agreement; provided, the manufacturer or importer is not required to accept a succession which is demonstrated to be significantly detrimental to the public interest or to the interest of the manufacturer or importer.

(2)  Refuse to honor any duly qualified designated successor to a distributor's agreement with the manufacturer or importer, who has been designated as such by the distributor during his or her lifetime and accepted in writing by the manufacturer or importer. Any such designation shall be binding upon the heirs, successors, assigns, and personal and legal representatives of the distributor, unless expressly revoked in writing, executed, and delivered by the distributor to the manufacturer or importer prior to his or her death.

A manufacturer or importer who rejects a successor transferee under this section shall have the burden of establishing in any proceeding where such rejection is in issue that the rejection of the successor transferee was reasonable.

History.--ss. 9, 22, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 372, ch. 95-148.

320.6405  Franchise agreements; obligations of manufacturer and its agent.--Any parent, subsidiary, or common entity of a manufacturer; distributor; importer; or other entity, which by contractual arrangement or otherwise pursuant to the direction of the manufacturer, engages in the distribution in this state of line-make motor vehicles manufactured or substantially manufactured by such manufacturer, shall be deemed to be the agent of the manufacturer for the purposes of any franchise agreement entered into between such agent and a motor vehicle dealer engaged in business in this state and shall be bound by the terms and provisions of such franchise agreement as if it were the principal. A manufacturer of line-make motor vehicles which are offered for sale or lease in this state under any franchise agreement executed by an agent of such manufacturer is bound by the terms and provisions of such franchise agreement as if it and not the agent had executed the franchise agreement and, notwithstanding whether it is licensed pursuant to s. 320.61, said manufacturer shall be subject to all of the restrictions, limitations, remedies, and penalties of ss. 320.60-320.70 related to such franchise agreement, the performance thereof, or any cause of action pertaining thereto. The agency relationship established in this section is not intended to apply to a person or entity that engages in the distribution of motor vehicles in this state under its own brand name which are substantially manufactured by another person or entity, provided the distributing person or entity is substantially engaged in the manufacture of other line-make motor vehicles and is licensed in this state as a manufacturer.

History.--ss. 4, 13, ch. 84-69; ss. 10, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.641  Unfair cancellation of franchise agreements.--

(1)(a)  An applicant or licensee shall give written notice to the motor vehicle dealer and the department of the licensee's intention to discontinue, cancel, or fail to renew a franchise agreement or of the licensee's intention to modify a franchise or replace a franchise with a succeeding franchise, which modification or replacement will adversely alter the rights or obligations of a motor vehicle dealer under an existing franchise agreement or will substantially impair the sales, service obligations, or investment of the motor vehicle dealer, at least 90 days before the effective date thereof, together with the specific grounds for such action.

(b)  The failure by the licensee to comply with the 90-day notice period and procedure prescribed herein shall render voidable, at the option of the motor vehicle dealer, any discontinuation, cancellation, nonrenewal, modification, or replacement of any franchise agreement. Designation of a franchise agreement at a specific location as a "nondesignated point" shall be deemed an evasion of this section and constitutes an unfair cancellation.

(2)  Franchise agreements are deemed to be continuing unless the applicant or licensee has notified the department of the discontinuation of, cancellation of, failure to renew, modification of, or replacement of the agreement of any of its motor vehicle dealers; and annual renewal of the license provided for under ss. 320.60-320.70 is not necessary for any cause of action against the licensee.

(3)  Any motor vehicle dealer whose franchise agreement is discontinued, canceled, not renewed, modified, or replaced may, within the 90-day notice period, file a petition or complaint for a determination of whether such action is an unfair or prohibited discontinuation, cancellation, nonrenewal, modification, or replacement. Agreements and certificates of appointment shall continue in effect until final determination of the issues raised in such petition or complaint by the motor vehicle dealer. A discontinuation, cancellation, or nonrenewal of a franchise agreement is unfair if it is not clearly permitted by the franchise agreement; is not undertaken in good faith; is not undertaken for good cause; or is based on an alleged breach of the franchise agreement which is not in fact a material and substantial breach.

(4)  Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the failure of a motor vehicle dealer to be engaged in business with the public for 10 consecutive business days constitutes abandonment by the dealer of his or her franchise agreement. If any motor vehicle dealer abandons his or her franchise agreement, he or she has no cause of action under this section. For the purpose of this section, a dealer shall be considered to be engaged in business with the public if a sales and service facility is open and is performing such services 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, excluding holidays. However, it will not be considered abandonment if such failure to engage in business is due to an act of God, a work stoppage, or a delay due to a strike or labor difficulty, a freight embargo, or other cause over which the motor vehicle dealer has no control, including any violation of ss. 320.60-320.70.

(5)  Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, if a motor vehicle dealer has abandoned his or her franchise agreement as provided in subsection (4), the licensee may give written notice to the dealer and the department of the licensee's intention to discontinue, cancel, or fail to renew the franchise agreement with the dealer at least 15 days before the effective date thereof, specifying the grounds for such action. A motor vehicle dealer receiving such notice may file a petition or complaint for determination of whether in fact there has been an abandonment of the franchise.

(6)  If the complainant motor vehicle dealer prevails, he or she shall have a cause of action against the licensee for reasonable attorneys' fees and costs incurred by him or her in such proceeding, and he or she shall have a cause of action under s. 320.697.

(7)  Except as provided in s. 320.643, no replacement motor vehicle dealer shall be named for this point or location to engage in business prior to the final adjudication by the department on the petition or complaint and the exhaustion of all appellate remedies by the canceled or discontinued dealer, if a stay is issued by either the department or an appellate court.

History.--s. 9, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 6, 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 6, ch. 84-69; ss. 11, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 373, ch. 95-148.

320.6415  Changes in plan or system of distribution.--

(1)  A motor vehicle dealer franchise agreement shall continue in full force and operation notwithstanding a change, in whole or in part, of an established plan or system of distribution of the motor vehicles offered for sale under such franchise agreement. The appointment of a new importer or distributor for motor vehicles offered for sale under such franchise agreement shall be deemed to be a change of an established plan or system of distribution.

(2)  Upon the occurrence of such change, the department shall deny an application:

(a)  For any license filed pursuant to ss. 320.60-320.70 unless the applicant offers to each motor vehicle dealer who is a party to the franchise agreement a new franchise agreement containing substantially the same provisions which were contained in the previous franchise agreement or files an affidavit with the department acknowledging its undertaking to assume and fulfill the rights, duties, and obligations of its predecessor under the previous franchise agreement.

(b)  For any license filed pursuant to s. 320.27 in any community or territory in which such franchise or selling agreement is continuing in full force and operation hereunder, until this section has been complied with.

History.--ss. 7, 13, ch. 84-69; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.642  Dealer licenses in areas previously served; procedure.--

(1)  Any licensee who proposes to establish an additional motor vehicle dealership or permit the relocation of an existing dealer to a location within a community or territory where the same line-make vehicle is presently represented by a franchised motor vehicle dealer or dealers shall give written notice of its intention by certified mail to the department. Such notice shall state:

(a)  The specific location at which the additional or relocated motor vehicle dealership will be established.

(b)  The date on or after which the licensee intends to be engaged in business with the additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer at the proposed location.

(c)  The identity of all motor vehicle dealers who are franchised to sell the same line-make vehicle with licensed locations in the county or any contiguous county to the county where the additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer is proposed to be located.

(d)  The names and addresses of the dealer-operator and principal investors in the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealership.

Immediately upon receipt of such notice the department shall cause a notice to be published in the Florida Administrative Weekly. The published notice shall state that a petition or complaint by any dealer with standing to protest pursuant to subsection (3) must be filed not more than 30 days from the date of publication of the notice in the Florida Administrative Weekly. The published notice shall describe and identify the proposed dealership sought to be licensed, and the department shall cause a copy of the notice to be mailed to those dealers identified in the licensee's notice under paragraph (c).

(2)(a)  An application for a motor vehicle dealer license in any community or territory shall be denied when:

1.  A timely protest is filed by a presently existing franchised motor vehicle dealer with standing to protest as defined in subsection (3); and

2.  The licensee fails to show that the existing franchised dealer or dealers who register new motor vehicle retail sales or retail leases of the same line-make in the community or territory of the proposed dealership are not providing adequate representation of such line-make motor vehicles in such community or territory. The burden of proof in establishing inadequate representation shall be on the licensee.

(b)  In determining whether the existing franchised motor vehicle dealer or dealers are providing adequate representation in the community or territory for the line-make, the department may consider evidence which may include, but is not limited to:

1.  The impact of the establishment of the proposed or relocated dealer on the consumers, public interest, existing dealers, and the licensee; provided, however, that financial impact may only be considered with respect to the protesting dealer or dealers.

2.  The size and permanency of investment reasonably made and reasonable obligations incurred by the existing dealer or dealers to perform their obligations under the dealer agreement.

3.  The reasonably expected market penetration of the line-make motor vehicle for the community or territory involved, after consideration of all factors which may affect said penetration, including, but not limited to, demographic factors such as age, income, education, size class preference, product popularity, retail lease transactions, or other factors affecting sales to consumers of the community or territory.

4.  Any actions by the licensees in denying its existing dealer or dealers of the same line-make the opportunity for reasonable growth, market expansion, or relocation, including the availability of line-make vehicles in keeping with the reasonable expectations of the licensee in providing an adequate number of dealers in the community or territory.

5.  Any attempts by the licensee to coerce the existing dealer or dealers into consenting to additional or relocated franchises of the same line-make in the community or territory.

6.  Distance, travel time, traffic patterns, and accessibility between the existing dealer or dealers of the same line-make and the location of the proposed additional or relocated dealer.

7.  Whether benefits to consumers will likely occur from the establishment or relocation of the dealership which the protesting dealer or dealers prove cannot be obtained by other geographic or demographic changes or expected changes in the community or territory.

8.  Whether the protesting dealer or dealers are in substantial compliance with their dealer agreement.

9.  Whether there is adequate interbrand and intrabrand competition with respect to said line-make in the community or territory and adequately convenient consumer care for the motor vehicles of the line-make, including the adequacy of sales and service facilities.

10.  Whether the establishment or relocation of the proposed dealership appears to be warranted and justified based on economic and marketing conditions pertinent to dealers competing in the community or territory, including anticipated future changes.

11.  The volume of registrations and service business transacted by the existing dealer or dealers of the same line-make in the relevant community or territory of the proposed dealership.

(3)  An existing franchised motor vehicle dealer or dealers shall have standing to protest a proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer where the existing motor vehicle dealer or dealers have a franchise agreement for the same line-make vehicle to be sold by the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer and are physically located so as to meet or satisfy any of the following requirements or conditions:

(a)  If the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer is to be located in a county with a population of less than 300,000 according to the most recent data of the United States Census Bureau or the data of the Bureau of Economic and Business Research of the University of Florida:

1.  The proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer is to be located in the area designated or described as the area of responsibility, or such similarly designated area, including the entire area designated as a multiple-point area, in the franchise agreement or in any related document or commitment with the existing motor vehicle dealer or dealers of the same line-make as such agreement existed upon October 1, 1988;

2.  The existing motor vehicle dealer or dealers of the same line-make have a licensed franchise location within a radius of 20 miles of the location of the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer; or

3.  Any existing motor vehicle dealer or dealers of the same line-make can establish that during any 12-month period of the 36-month period preceding the filing of the licensee's application for the proposed dealership, such dealer or its predecessor made 25 percent of its retail sales of new motor vehicles to persons whose registered household addresses were located within a radius of 20 miles of the location of the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer; provided such existing dealer is located in the same county or any county contiguous to the county where the additional or relocated dealer is proposed to be located.

(b)  If the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer is to be located in a county with a population of more than 300,000 according to the most recent data of the United States Census Bureau or the data of the Bureau of Economic and Business Research of the University of Florida:

1.  Any existing motor vehicle dealer or dealers of the same line-make have a licensed franchise location within a radius of 12.5 miles of the location of the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer; or

2.  Any existing motor vehicle dealer or dealers of the same line-make can establish that during any 12-month period of the 36-month period preceding the filing of the licensee's application for the proposed dealership, such dealer or its predecessor made 25 percent of its retail sales of new motor vehicles to persons whose registered household addresses were located within a radius of 12.5 miles of the location of the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer; provided such existing dealer is located in the same county or any county contiguous to the county where the additional or relocated dealer is proposed to be located.

(4)  The department's decision to deny issuance of a license under this section shall remain in effect for a period of 12 months. The department shall not issue a license for the proposed additional or relocated motor vehicle dealer until a final decision by the department is rendered determining that the application for the motor vehicle dealer's license should be granted.

(5)  The opening or reopening of the same or a successor motor vehicle dealer within 12 months shall not be considered an additional motor vehicle dealer subject to protest within the meaning of this section, if:

(a)  The opening or reopening is within the same or an adjacent county, is within 2 miles of the former motor vehicle dealer location,

(b)  The proposed location is further from each existing dealer of the same line-make than the prior location is from each dealer of the same line-make within 25 miles of the new location,

(c)  The opening or reopening is within 6 miles of the prior location and, if any existing motor vehicle dealer of the same line-make is located within 15 miles of the former location, the proposed location is no closer to any existing dealer of the same line-make, or

(d)  The opening or reopening is within 6 miles of the prior location and, if all existing motor vehicle dealers of the same line-make are beyond 15 miles of the former location, the proposed location is further than 15 miles from any existing motor vehicle dealer of the same line-make.

Any other such opening or reopening shall constitute an additional motor vehicle dealer within the meaning of this section.

History.--s. 9, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 12, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.643  Transfer, assignment, or sale of franchise agreements.--

(1)  A motor vehicle dealer shall not transfer, assign, or sell a franchise agreement to another person unless the dealer first notifies the licensee of the dealer's decision to make such transfer, by written notice setting forth the prospective transferee's name, address, financial qualification, and business experience during the previous 5 years. The licensee shall, in writing, within 60 days after receipt of such notice, inform the dealer either of the licensee's approval of the transfer, assignment, or sale or of the unacceptability of the proposed transferee, setting forth the material reasons for the rejection. If the licensee does not so inform the dealer within the 60-day period, its approval of the proposed transfer is deemed granted. No such transfer, assignment, or sale will be valid unless the transferee agrees in writing to comply with all requirements of the franchise then in effect. Notwithstanding the terms of any franchise agreement, the acceptance by the licensee of the proposed transferee shall not be unreasonably withheld. For the purposes of this section, the refusal by the licensee to accept a proposed transferee who is of good moral character and who otherwise meets the written, reasonable, and uniformly applied standards or qualifications, if any, of the licensee relating to the business experience of executive management required by the licensee of its motor vehicle dealers is presumed to be unreasonable. A licensee who receives such notice may, within 60 days following such receipt, file with the department a verified complaint for a determination that the proposed transferee is not a person qualified to be a transferee under this section. The licensee has the burden of proof with respect to all issues raised by such verified complaint. The department shall determine, and enter an order providing, that the proposed transferee is either qualified or is not and cannot be qualified for specified reasons, or the order may provide the conditions under which a proposed transferee would be qualified. If the licensee fails to file such verified complaint within such 60-day period or if the department, after a hearing, dismisses the complaint or renders a decision other than one disqualifying the proposed transferee, the franchise agreement between the motor vehicle dealer and the licensee shall be deemed amended to incorporate such transfer or amended in accordance with the determination and order rendered, effective upon compliance by the proposed transferee with any conditions set forth in the determination or order.

(2)(a)  Notwithstanding the terms of any franchise agreement, a licensee shall not, by contract or otherwise, fail or refuse to give effect to, prevent, prohibit, or penalize, or attempt to refuse to give effect to, prevent, prohibit, or penalize, any motor vehicle dealer or any proprietor, partner, stockholder, owner, or other person who holds or otherwise owns an interest therein from selling, assigning, transferring, alienating, or otherwise disposing of, in whole or in part, the equity interest of any of them in such motor vehicle dealer to any other person or persons, including a corporation established or existing for the purpose of owning or holding the stock or ownership interests of other entities, unless the licensee proves at a hearing pursuant to this section that such sale, transfer, alienation, or other disposition is to a person who is not, or whose controlling executive management is not, of good moral character. A motor vehicle dealer, or any proprietor, partner, stockholder, owner, or other person who holds or otherwise owns an interest in the motor vehicle dealer, who desires to sell, assign, transfer, alienate, or otherwise dispose of any interest in such motor vehicle dealer shall notify, or cause the proposed transferee to so notify, the licensee, in writing, of the identity and address of the proposed transferee. A licensee who receives such notice may, within 60 days following such receipt, file with the department a verified complaint for a determination that the proposed transferee is not a person qualified to be a transferee under this section. The licensee has the burden of proof with respect to all issues raised by such verified complaint. The department shall determine, and enter an order providing, that the proposed transferee either is qualified or is not and cannot be qualified for specified reasons; or the order may provide the conditions under which a proposed transferee would be qualified. If the licensee fails to file such verified complaint within such 60-day period or if the department, after a hearing, dismisses the complaint or renders a decision other than one disqualifying the proposed transferee, the franchise agreement between the motor vehicle dealer and the licensee shall be deemed amended to incorporate such transfer or amended in accordance with the determination and order rendered, effective upon compliance by the proposed transferee with any conditions set forth in the determination or order.

(b)  During the pendency of any such hearing, the franchise agreement of the motor vehicle dealer shall continue in effect in accordance with its terms. The department shall expedite any determination requested under this section.

History.--s. 7, ch. 80-217; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 8, ch. 84-69; ss. 13, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 374, ch. 95-148.

320.644  Change of executive management control; objection by licensee; procedure.--

(1)  No licensee shall prohibit or prevent, or attempt to prohibit or prevent, any motor vehicle dealer from changing the executive management control of the motor vehicle dealer unless the proposed change of executive management control of the motor vehicle dealer is to a person or persons not of good moral character or who do not meet the written, reasonable, and uniformly applied standards of the licensee relating to the business experience of executive management required by the licensee of its motor vehicle dealers. A motor vehicle dealer who desires to change its executive management control shall notify the licensee by written notice, setting forth the name, address, and business experience of the proposed executive management. A licensee who receives such notice may, within 60 days following such receipt, file with the department a verified complaint for a determination that the proposed change of executive management will result in executive management control by persons who are not of good moral character or who do not meet such licensee's standards. The licensee has the burden of proof with respect to all issues raised by such verified complaint. If the licensee fails to file such verified complaint within such 60-day period or if the department, after a hearing, dismisses the complaint, the franchise agreement between the motor vehicle dealer and the licensee shall be deemed amended to incorporate such change or amended in accordance with the decision rendered. For the purpose of this section, the mere termination of employment of executive management, including the dealer/operator or such similarly designated person or persons, shall not be deemed to be a change in executive management or a transfer of the franchise. Provided, however, the designation of replacement executive management shall be subject to this section.

(2)  During the pendency of any such hearing, the franchise agreement of the motor vehicle dealer shall continue in effect in accordance with its terms. The department shall expedite any determination requested under this section.

History.--ss. 9, 13, ch. 84-69; ss. 14, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.645  Restriction upon ownership of dealership by licensee.--

(1)  No licensee, including a manufacturer or agent of a manufacturer, or any parent, subsidiary, common entity, or officer or representative of the licensee shall own or operate, either directly or indirectly, a motor vehicle dealership in this state for the sale or service of motor vehicles which have been or are offered for sale under a franchise agreement with a motor vehicle dealer in this state. However, no such licensee will be deemed to be in violation of this section:

(a)  When operating a motor vehicle dealership for a temporary period, not to exceed 1 year, during the transition from one owner of the motor vehicle dealership to another;

(b)  When operating a motor vehicle dealership temporarily for a reasonable period, not to exceed 1 year, or in a bona fide relationship with an independent person, other than a licensee or its agent or affiliate, who has made a significant investment that is subject to loss in the dealership and who can reasonably expect to acquire full ownership of the dealership on reasonable terms and conditions; or

(c)  If the department determines, after a hearing on the matter, pursuant to chapter 120, at the request of any person, that there is no independent person available in the community or territory to own and operate the motor vehicle dealership in a manner consistent with the public interest.

In any such case, the licensee must continue to make the motor vehicle dealership available for sale to an independent person at a fair and reasonable price. Approval of the sale of such a motor vehicle dealership to a proposed motor vehicle dealer shall not be unreasonably withheld.

(2)  This section shall not be construed to prohibit any licensee from owning or operating a motor vehicle dealership in this state if such dealership was owned or operated by the licensee on May 31, 1984.

History.--ss. 10, 13, ch. 84-69; ss. 15, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.664  Reinstatement of license.--When any license has been revoked or suspended by the department pursuant to the provisions of ss. 320.60-320.70, the department may for good cause reinstate the license of any former licensee under ss. 320.60-320.70, if it determines that the former licensee is rehabilitated, meets the requirements of ss. 320.60-320.70, files an application for license pursuant to s. 320.63, and complies with ss. 320.60-320.70.

History.--s. 10, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; s. 20, ch. 78-95; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.67  Inspection of books or other documents of licensee.--

(1)  The department may inspect the pertinent books, records, letters, and contracts of a licensee relating to any written complaint made to it against such licensee.

(2)  In the exercise of its duties under this section, the department is granted and authorized to exercise the power of subpoena for the attendance of witnesses and the production of any documentary evidence necessary to the disposition by it of any written complaint under this section. Any information obtained may not be used against the licensee as the basis for a criminal prosecution under the laws of this state.

History.--s. 8, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 12, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.68  Revocation of license held by firms or corporations.--If an applicant or licensee is a firm or corporation, it shall be sufficient cause for the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license that any officer, director, or trustee of the firm or corporation, or any member in case of a partnership, has been guilty of an act or omission which would be cause for refusing, suspending, or revoking a license to such party as an individual. Each licensee shall be responsible for the acts of any of its employees while acting as its agent if the licensee approved of or had knowledge of the acts or other similar acts and after such approval or knowledge retained the benefits, proceeds, profits, or advantages accruing from the acts or otherwise ratified the acts.

History.--s. 9, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 13, ch. 70-424; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.69  Rules.--The department has authority to adopt rules pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement the provisions of this law.

History.--s. 10, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 6, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 63, ch. 98-200.

320.695  Injunction.--In addition to the remedies provided in this chapter, and notwithstanding the existence of any adequate remedy at law, the department, or any motor vehicle dealer in the name of the department and state and for the use and benefit of the motor vehicle dealer, is authorized to make application to any circuit court of the state for the grant, upon a hearing and for cause shown, of a temporary or permanent injunction, or both, restraining any person from acting as a licensee under the terms of ss. 320.60-320.70 without being properly licensed hereunder, or from violating or continuing to violate any of the provisions of ss. 320.60-320.70, or from failing or refusing to comply with the requirements of this law or any rule or regulation adopted hereunder. Such injunction shall be issued without bond. A single act in violation of the provisions of ss. 320.60-320.70 shall be sufficient to authorize the issuance of an injunction. However, this statutory remedy shall not be applicable to any motor vehicle dealer after final determination by the department under s. 320.641(3).

History.--s. 15, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.696  Warranty responsibility.--The licensee shall reasonably and timely compensate any authorized motor vehicle dealer who performs work to rectify the licensee's product or warranty defects or fulfills delivery and preparation obligations. In the determination of what constitutes reasonable compensation under this section, the factors to be given consideration shall include, among others, the compensation being paid by other licensees to their dealers, the prevailing wage rate being paid by the dealers, and the prevailing labor rate being charged by the dealers, in the city or community in which the dealer is doing business. For the purpose of this section, reasonable compensation for work by a motor vehicle dealer for warranty repairs or service on behalf of a licensee shall not be determined to be less than the amount charged by the dealer for like work to retail customers for nonwarranty repairs and service, unless the licensee can demonstrate and establish in a proceeding before the department that the dealer's retail charges for labor are improper in light of all economic circumstances. Compensation not paid within 30 days of receipt or notice of billing shall be presumed untimely.

History.--s. 16, ch. 70-424; s. 93, ch. 71-355; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 16, 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.697  Civil damages.--Any person who has suffered pecuniary loss or who has been otherwise adversely affected because of a violation by a licensee of ss. 320.60-320.70, notwithstanding the existence of any other remedies under ss. 320.60-320.70, has a cause of action against the licensee for damages and may recover damages therefor in any court of competent jurisdiction in an amount equal to 3 times the pecuniary loss, together with costs and a reasonable attorney's fee to be assessed by the court. Upon a prima facie showing by the person bringing the action that such a violation by the licensee has occurred, the burden of proof shall then be upon the licensee to prove that such violation or unfair practice did not occur.

History.--s. 17, ch. 70-424; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 96, ch. 77-104; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 11, ch. 84-69; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.6975  Procedures and remedies applicable to distributor agreements.--All procedures and remedies specified in ss. 320.641 and 320.697 shall be available to a distributor whose distributor agreement is discontinued, canceled, not renewed, modified, or replaced by an importer.

History.--s. 2, ch. 90-78; s. 2, ch. 91-201; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.698  Civil fines; procedure.--In addition to the exercise of other powers under ss. 320.60-320.70, the department is authorized to assess, impose, levy, and collect by legal process civil fines against licensees as follows:

(1)  The department may fine any licensee who refuses to furnish all information required under s. 320.63, furnishes erroneous information, or fails to notify the department of any revisions or changes in information as they occur a sum not exceeding $1,000, and such fine may be levied for each and every such violation.

(2)  The department may fine any licensee a sum not exceeding $5,000 when such licensee, or an agent or employee thereof, is adjudged by the department to be guilty of a violation of s. 320.64, and the fine may be levied for each and every such violation.

(3)  Any licensee shall be entitled to a hearing pursuant to chapter 120 should said licensee wish to contest the fine levied, or about to be levied, upon the licensee.

(4)  The department may waive or suspend any fine authorized hereunder upon a showing of good cause by the licensee for failure to comply with ss. 320.60-320.70.

History.--s. 18, ch. 70-424; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; s. 20, ch. 78-95; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.699  Administrative hearings and adjudications; procedure.--

(1)  A motor vehicle dealer, or person with entitlements to or in a motor vehicle dealer, who is directly and adversely affected by the action or conduct of an applicant or licensee which is alleged to be in violation of any provision of ss. 320.60-320.70, may seek a declaration and adjudication of its rights with respect to the alleged action or conduct of the applicant or licensee by:

(a)  Filing with the department a request for a proceeding and an administrative hearing which conforms substantially with the requirements of ss. 120.569 and 120.57; or

(b)  Filing with the department a written objection or notice of protest pursuant to s. 320.642.

(2)  If a written objection or notice of protest is filed with the department under paragraph (1)(b), a hearing shall be held within 180 days of the date of filing of the first objection or notice of protest, unless the time is extended by the hearing officer for good cause shown. If a hearing is not scheduled within said time, any party may request such hearing which shall be held forthwith by the hearing officer.

History.--ss. 17, 22, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 66, ch. 96-410.

320.6992  Application.--This act shall apply to all presently existing or hereafter established systems of distribution of motor vehicles in this state, except to the extent that such application would impair valid contractual agreements in violation of the State Constitution or Federal Constitution. The provisions of this act shall not apply to any judicial or administrative proceeding pending as of October 1, 1988. All agreements renewed or entered into subsequent to October 1, 1988, shall be governed hereby.

History.--ss. 19, 22, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.70  Penalties for violation.--Any person being a manufacturer, factory branch, or factory representative, who violates any provision of ss. 320.61-320.70, or who does any act enumerated in s. 320.64 as a ground for the denial, suspension or revocation of a license, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 11, ch. 20236, 1941; s. 7, ch. 22858, 1945; s. 203, ch. 71-136; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.701  Applicability of ch. 84-69.--This act applies to all presently existing or established systems of distribution of motor vehicles in this state, except to the extent that such application would impair contractual agreements in violation of the Florida Constitution or Federal Constitution. All agreements renewed or entered into subsequent to May 31, 1984, will be governed by this act.

History.--s. 12, ch. 84-69.

320.71  Nonresident motor vehicle, mobile home, or recreational vehicle dealer's license.--

(1)  Any person who is a nonresident of the state, who does not have a dealer's contract from the manufacturer or manufacturer's distributor of motor vehicles, mobile homes, or recreational vehicles authorizing the sale thereof in definite Florida territory, and who sells or engages in the business of selling said vehicles at retail within the state shall register with the Department of Revenue for a sales tax dealer registration number and comply with chapter 212, and pay a license tax of $2,000 per annum in each county where such sales are made; $1,250 of said tax shall be transmitted to the Department of Banking and Finance to be deposited in the General Revenue Fund of the state, and $750 thereof shall be returned to the county. The license tax shall cover the period from January 1 to the following December 31, and no such license shall be issued for any fractional part of a year.

(2)  The acceptance by any person of a license under this section shall be deemed equivalent to an appointment by such person of the Secretary of State as the agent of such person upon whom may be served all lawful process in any action, suit, or proceeding against such person arising out of any transaction or operation connected with or incidental to any activities of such person carried on under such license, and the acceptance of such license shall be signification of the agreement of such person that any process against the person which is so served shall be of the same legal force and validity as if served personally on him or her. Service of such process shall be in accordance with and in the same manner as now provided for service of process upon nonresidents under the provisions of chapter 48.

History.--s. 1, ch. 20851, 1941; s. 2, ch. 57-388; ss. 12, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 30, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 2, 20, ch. 88-147; ss. 20, 21, ch. 88-395; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 375, ch. 95-148.

320.77  License required of mobile home dealers.--

(1)  DEFINITIONS.--As used in this section:

(a)  "Dealer" means any person engaged in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in mobile homes or offering or displaying mobile homes for sale. The term "dealer" includes a mobile home broker. Any person who buys, sells, deals in, or offers or displays for sale, or who acts as the agent for the sale of, one or more mobile homes in any 12-month period shall be prima facie presumed to be a dealer. The terms "selling" and "sale" include lease-purchase transactions. The term "dealer" does not include banks, credit unions, and finance companies that acquire mobile homes as an incident to their regular business and does not include mobile home rental and leasing companies that sell mobile homes to dealers licensed under this section. A licensed dealer may transact business in recreational vehicles with a motor vehicle auction as defined in s. 320.27(1)(c)4. Any licensed dealer dealing exclusively in mobile homes shall not have benefit of the privilege of using dealer license plates.

(b)  "Mobile home broker" means any person who is engaged in the business of offering to procure or procuring used mobile homes for the general public; who holds himself or herself out through solicitation, advertisement, or otherwise as one who offers to procure or procures used mobile homes for the general public; or who acts as the agent or intermediary on behalf of the owner or seller of a used mobile home which is for sale or who assists or represents the seller in finding a buyer for the mobile home.

(2)  LICENSE REQUIRED.--No person shall engage in business as, or serve in the capacity of, a dealer in this state unless such person possesses a valid, current license as provided in this section.

(3)  APPLICATION.--The application for such license shall be in the form prescribed by the department and subject to such rules as may be prescribed by it. The application shall be verified by oath or affirmation and shall contain:

(a)  A full statement of the name and the date of birth of the person or persons applying therefor.

(b)  The name of the firm or copartnership with the names and places of residence of all its members, if the applicant is a firm or copartnership.

(c)  The names and places of residence of the principal officers, if the applicant is a body corporate or other artificial body.

(d)  The name of the state under whose laws the corporation is organized.

(e)  The former place or places of residence of the applicant.

(f)  The prior businesses in which the applicant has been engaged, the dates during which the applicant was engaged in such businesses, and the locations thereof.

(g)  A description of the exact location of the place of business, when it was acquired, and whether it is owned in fee simple by the applicant. If leased, a true copy of the lease shall be attached to the application.

(h)  Certification by the applicant that the location is a permanent one, not a tent or a temporary stand or other temporary quarters; and, except in the case of a mobile home broker, that the location affords sufficient unoccupied space to store all mobile homes offered and displayed for sale; and that the location is a suitable place in which the applicant can in good faith carry on business and keep and maintain books, records, and files necessary to conduct such business, which will be available at all reasonable hours to inspection by the department or any of its inspectors or other employees. This subsection shall not preclude a licensed mobile home dealer from displaying and offering for sale mobile homes in a mobile home park.

(i)  Certification by the applicant that the business of a mobile home dealer is the principal business which shall be conducted at that location; however, this provision shall not apply to mobile home park operators licensed as mobile home dealers.

(j)  Such other relevant information as may be required by the department. Each applicant, general partner in the case of a partnership, or corporate officer and director in the case of a corporate applicant, must file a set of fingerprints with the department for the purpose of determining any prior criminal record or any outstanding warrants. The department shall submit the fingerprinting to the Department of Law Enforcement for state processing and forwarding to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for federal processing. The actual cost of such state and federal processing shall be borne by the applicant and is to be in addition to the fee for licensure. The department may issue a license to an applicant pending the results of the fingerprint investigation, which license is fully revocable if the department subsequently determines that any facts set forth in the application are not true or correctly represented.

The department shall, if it deems necessary, cause an investigation to be made to ascertain if the facts set forth in the application are true and shall not issue a license to the applicant until it is satisfied that the facts set forth in the application are true.

(4)  FEES.--Upon making initial application, the applicant shall pay to the department a fee of $300 in addition to any other fees now required by law. The fee for renewal application shall be $100. The fee for application for change of location shall be $25. Any applicant for renewal who has failed to submit his or her renewal application by October 1 shall pay a renewal application fee equal to the original application fee. No fee is refundable. All fees shall be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.

(5)  DENIAL OF LICENSE.--The department may deny any applicant a license on the ground that:

(a)  The applicant has made a material misstatement in his or her application for a license.

(b)  The applicant has failed to comply with any applicable provision of this chapter.

(c)  The applicant has failed to provide warranty service.

(d)  The applicant or one or more of his or her principals or agents has violated any law, rule, or regulation relating to the sale of mobile homes.

(e)  The department has proof of unfitness of the applicant.

(f)  The applicant or licensee has engaged in previous conduct in any state which would have been a ground for revocation or suspension of a license in this state.

(g)  The applicant or licensee has violated any of the provisions of the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 or any rule or regulation of the Department of Housing and Urban Development promulgated thereunder.

Upon denial of a license, the department shall notify the applicant within 10 days, stating in writing its grounds for denial. The applicant is entitled to a public hearing and may request that such hearing be held within 45 days of denial of the license. All proceedings shall be pursuant to chapter 120.

(6)  LICENSE CERTIFICATE.--A license certificate shall be issued by the department in accordance with the application when the same is regular in form and in compliance with the provisions of this section. The license certificate may be in the form of a document or a computerized card as determined by the department. The cost of each original, additional, or replacement computerized card shall be borne by the licensee and is in addition to the fee for licensure. The fees charged applicants for both the required background investigation and the computerized card as provided in this section shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. The license, when so issued, shall entitle the licensee to carry on and conduct the business of a mobile home dealer at the location set forth in the license for a period of 1 year from October 1 preceding the date of issuance. Each initial application received by the department shall be accompanied by verification that, within the preceding 6 months, the applicant or one or more of his or her designated employees has attended a training and information seminar conducted by the department or by a public or private provider approved by the department. Such seminar shall include, but not be limited to, statutory dealer requirements, which requirements include required bookkeeping and recording procedures, requirements for the collection of sales and use taxes, and such other information that in the opinion of the department will promote good business practices.

(7)  SUPPLEMENTAL LICENSE.--Any person licensed pursuant to this section shall be entitled to operate one or more additional places of business under a supplemental license for each such business if the ownership of each business is identical to that of the principal business for which the original license is issued. Each supplemental license shall run concurrently with the original license and shall be issued upon application by the licensee on a form to be furnished by the department and payment of a fee of $50 for each such license. Only one licensed dealer shall operate at the same place of business. A supplemental license authorizing off-premises sales shall be issued, at no charge to the dealer, for a period not to exceed 10 consecutive calendar days.

(8)  RECORDS TO BE KEPT BY LICENSEE.--Each licensee shall keep records in such form as shall be prescribed by the department. Such records shall include:

(a)  A record of the purchase, sale, or exchange, or receipt for the purpose of sale, of any mobile home;

(b)  The description of each such mobile home, including the identification or serial number and such other numbers or identification marks as may be thereon, and a statement that a number has been obliterated, defaced, or changed, if such fact is apparent; and

(c)  The name and address of the seller, the purchaser, and the alleged owner or other person from whom the mobile home was purchased or received and the person to whom it was sold or delivered, as the case may be.

(9)  EVIDENCE OF TITLE REQUIRED.--The licensee shall also have in his or her possession for each new mobile home a manufacturer's invoice or statement of origin, and for each used mobile home a properly assigned certificate of title or registration certificate if the used mobile home was previously registered in a nontitle state, from the time the mobile home is delivered to the licensee until it has been disposed of by him or her.

(10)  SETUP OPERATIONS.--Each licensee may perform setup operations only as defined in s. 320.822, and the department shall provide by rule for the uniform application of all existing statutory provisions relating to licensing and setup operations.

(11)  PENALTY.--The violation of any provision of this section is a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(12)  INJUNCTION.--In addition to the remedies provided in this chapter, and notwithstanding the existence of any adequate remedy at law, the department is authorized to make application to any circuit court of the state, and the circuit court shall have jurisdiction, upon a hearing and for cause shown, to grant a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from acting as a mobile home dealer under the terms of this section who is not properly licensed or who violates or fails or refuses to comply with any of the provisions of chapter 319 and this chapter or any rule or regulation adopted thereunder. Such injunction shall be issued without bond. A single act in violation of the provisions of chapter 319 or this chapter shall be sufficient to authorize the issuance of an injunction.

(13)  SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION.--The department shall, as it deems necessary, either suspend or revoke any license issued hereunder upon a finding that the licensee violated any provision of this section or of any other law of this state having to do with dealing in mobile homes or perpetrated a fraud upon any person as a result of such dealing in mobile homes.

(14)  ADMINISTRATIVE FINES.--In addition to the exercise of other powers provided in this section, the department is authorized to assess, impose, levy, and collect by legal process fines, in an amount not to exceed $1,000 for each violation, against any licensee if it finds that a licensee has violated any provision of this section or has violated any other law of this state having to do with dealing in motor vehicles. Any licensee shall be entitled to a hearing pursuant to chapter 120 should the licensee wish to contest the fine levied, or about to be levied, upon him or her.

(15)  BOND.--

(a)  Before any license shall be issued or renewed, the applicant shall deliver to the department a good and sufficient surety bond, executed by the applicant as principal and by a surety company qualified to do business in the state as surety. The bond shall be in a form to be approved by the department and shall be conditioned upon the dealer's complying with the conditions of any written contract made by the dealer in connection with the sale, exchange, or improvement of any mobile home and his or her not violating any of the provisions of chapter 319 or this chapter in the conduct of the business for which the dealer is licensed. The bond shall be to the department and in favor of any retail customer who shall suffer any loss as a result of any violation of the conditions hereinabove contained. The bond shall be for the license period, and a new bond or a proper continuation certificate shall be delivered to the department at the beginning of each license period. However, the aggregate liability of the surety in any one license year shall in no event exceed the sum of such bond. The amount of the bond required shall be as follows:

1.  A single dealer who buys, sells, or deals in mobile homes and who has four or fewer supplemental licenses shall provide a surety bond in the amount of $25,000.

2.  A single dealer who buys, sells, or deals in mobile homes and who has more than four supplemental licenses shall provide a surety bond in the amount of $50,000.

For the purposes of this paragraph, any person who buys, sells, or deals in both mobile homes and recreational vehicles shall provide the same surety bond required of dealers who buy, sell, or deal in mobile homes only.

(b)  The department shall, upon denial, suspension, or revocation of any license, notify the surety company of the licensee, in writing, that the license has been denied, suspended, or revoked and shall state the reason for such denial, suspension, or revocation.

(c)  Any surety company which pays any claim against the bond of any licensee shall notify the department, in writing, that it has paid such a claim and shall state the amount of the claim.

(d)  Any surety company which cancels the bond of any licensee shall notify the department, in writing, of such cancellation, giving reason for the cancellation.

History.--s. 1, ch. 23665, 1947; s. 2, ch. 70-215; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 1, ch. 74-169; s. 2, ch. 75-203; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 32, ch. 77-357; s. 1, ch. 77-457; s. 20, ch. 78-95; ss. 8, 16, 17, ch. 80-217; s. 199, ch. 81-259; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 9, ch. 82-66; ss. 5, 6, ch. 82-129; s. 6, ch. 85-176; s. 8, ch. 85-343; s. 1, ch. 87-150; ss. 3, 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 40, ch. 91-224; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 7, ch. 92-148; s. 69, ch. 93-120; s. 65, ch. 94-306; s. 917, ch. 95-148; s. 19, ch. 95-333.

320.771  License required of recreational vehicle dealers.--

(1)  DEFINITIONS.--As used in this section:

(a)  "Dealer" means any person engaged in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in recreational vehicles or offering or displaying recreational vehicles for sale. The term "dealer" includes a recreational vehicle broker. Any person who buys, sells, deals in, or offers or displays for sale, or who acts as the agent for the sale of, one or more recreational vehicles in any 12-month period shall be prima facie presumed to be a dealer. The terms "selling" and "sale" include lease-purchase transactions. The term "dealer" does not include banks, credit unions, and finance companies that acquire recreational vehicles as an incident to their regular business and does not include mobile home rental and leasing companies that sell recreational vehicles to dealers licensed under this section. A licensed dealer may transact business in recreational vehicles with a motor vehicle auction as defined in s. 320.27(1)(c)4. Further, a licensed dealer may, at retail or wholesale, sell a motor vehicle, as described in s. 320.01(1)(a), acquired in exchange for the sale of a recreational vehicle, if such acquisition is incidental to the principal business of being a recreational vehicle dealer. However, a recreational vehicle dealer may not buy a motor vehicle for the purpose of resale unless licensed as a motor vehicle dealer pursuant to s. 320.27.

(b)  "Recreational vehicle broker" means any person who is engaged in the business of offering to procure or procuring used recreational vehicles for the general public; who holds himself or herself out through solicitation, advertisement, or otherwise as one who offers to procure or procures used recreational vehicles for the general public; or who acts as the agent or intermediary on behalf of the owner or seller of a used recreational vehicle which is for sale or who assists or represents the seller in finding a buyer for the recreational vehicle.

(c)  For the purposes of this section, the term "recreational vehicle" does not include any camping trailer, as defined in s. 320.01(1)(b)2.

(2)  LICENSE REQUIRED.--No person shall engage in business as, or serve in the capacity of, a dealer in this state unless such person possesses a valid, current license as provided in this section. Motor vehicle dealers licensed under s. 320.27 shall not be required to obtain the license provided in this section to sell motor vehicles as defined in s. 320.01(1)(b)4., 5., and 6.

(3)  APPLICATION.--The application for such license shall be in the form prescribed by the department and subject to such rules as may be prescribed by it. The application shall be verified by oath or affirmation and shall contain:

(a)  A full statement of the name and the date of birth of the person or persons applying therefor.

(b)  The name of the firm or copartnership with the names and places of residence of all its members, if the applicant is a firm or copartnership.

(c)  The names and places of residence of the principal officers, if the applicant is a body corporate or other artificial body.

(d)  The name of the state under whose laws the corporation is organized.

(e)  The former place or places of residence of the applicant.

(f)  The prior businesses in which the applicant has been engaged, the dates during which the applicant was engaged in such businesses, and the locations thereof.

(g)  A description of the exact location of the place of business, when it was acquired, and whether it is owned in fee simple by the applicant. If leased, a true copy of the lease shall be attached to the application.

(h)  Certification by the applicant that the location is a permanent one, not a tent or a temporary stand or other temporary quarters; that the location affords sufficient unoccupied space to store all recreational vehicles offered and displayed for sale; and that the location is a suitable place in which the applicant can in good faith carry on business and keep and maintain books, records, and files necessary to conduct such business, which will be available at all reasonable hours to inspection by the department or any of its inspectors or other employees.

(i)  Certification by the applicant that the business of a recreational vehicle dealer is the principal business which shall be conducted at that location; however, this provision shall not apply to recreational vehicle or mobile home park operators licensed as mobile home or recreational vehicle dealers.

(j)  A statement that the applicant is insured under a garage liability insurance policy, which shall include, at a minimum, $25,000 combined single-limit liability coverage, including bodily injury and property damage protection, and $10,000 personal injury protection, if the applicant is to be licensed as a dealer in, or intends to sell, recreational vehicles.

(k)  A statement that the applicant for a recreational vehicle license, issued pursuant to this section, has not and will not enter into any agreements, written or oral, with any other person or business entity which would constitute an unfair or deceptive trade practice in violation of part II of chapter 501.

(l)  Such other relevant information as may be required by the department. Each applicant, general partner in the case of a partnership, or corporate officer and director in the case of a corporate applicant, must file a set of fingerprints with the department for the purpose of determining any prior criminal record or any outstanding warrants. The department shall submit the fingerprinting to the Department of Law Enforcement for state processing and forwarding to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for federal processing. The actual cost of such state and federal processing shall be borne by the applicant and is to be in addition to the fee for licensure. The department may issue a license to an applicant pending the results of the fingerprint investigation, which license is fully revocable if the department subsequently determines that any facts set forth in the application are not true or correctly represented.

The department shall, if it deems necessary, cause an investigation to be made to ascertain if the facts set forth in the application are true and shall not issue a license to the applicant until it is satisfied that the facts set forth in the application are true.

(4)  FEES.--Upon making initial application, the applicant shall pay to the department a fee of $300 in addition to any other fees now required by law. The fee for renewal application shall be $100. The fee for application for change of location shall be $25. Any applicant for renewal who has failed to submit his or her renewal application by October 1 shall pay a renewal application fee equal to the original application fee. No fee is refundable. All fees shall be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.

(5)  DENIAL OF LICENSE.--The department may deny any applicant a license on the ground that:

(a)  The applicant has made a material misstatement in the application for a license.

(b)  The applicant has failed to comply with any applicable provision of this chapter.

(c)  The applicant has failed to provide warranty service.

(d)  The applicant or one or more of the applicant's principals or agents has violated any law, rule, or regulation relating to the sale of recreational vehicles.

(e)  The department has proof of unfitness of the applicant.

(f)  The applicant or licensee has engaged in previous conduct in any state which would have been a ground for revocation or suspension of a license in this state.

(g)  The applicant or licensee has violated any of the provisions of the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 or any rule or regulation of the Department of Housing and Urban Development promulgated thereunder.

Upon denial of a license, the department shall notify the applicant within 10 days, stating in writing its grounds for denial. The applicant is entitled to a public hearing and may request that such hearing be held within 45 days of denial of the license. All proceedings shall be pursuant to chapter 120.

(6)  LICENSE CERTIFICATE.--A license certificate shall be issued by the department in accordance with the application when the same is regular in form and in compliance with the provisions of this section. The license certificate may be in the form of a document or a computerized card as determined by the department. The cost of each original, additional, or replacement computerized card shall be borne by the licensee and is in addition to the fee for licensure. The fees charged applicants for both the required background investigation and the computerized card as provided in this section shall be deposited into the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund. The license, when so issued, shall entitle the licensee to carry on and conduct the business of a recreational vehicle dealer at the location set forth in the license for a period of 1 year from October 1 preceding the date of issuance. Each initial application received by the department shall be accompanied by verification that, within the preceding 6 months, the applicant or one or more of his or her designated employees has attended a training and information seminar conducted by the department or by a public or private provider approved by the department. Such seminar shall include, but not be limited to, statutory dealer requirements, which requirements include required bookkeeping and recording procedures, requirements for the collection of sales and use taxes, and such other information that in the opinion of the department will promote good business practices.

(7)  SUPPLEMENTAL LICENSE.--Any person licensed pursuant to this section shall be entitled to operate one or more additional places of business under a supplemental license for each such business if the ownership of each business is identical to that of the principal business for which the original license is issued. Each supplemental license shall run concurrently with the original license and shall be issued upon application by the licensee on a form to be furnished by the department and payment of a fee of $50 for each such license. Only one licensed dealer shall operate at the same place of business. A supplemental license authorizing off-premises sales shall be issued, at no charge to the dealer, for a period not to exceed 10 consecutive calendar days.

(8)  LICENSE ENDORSEMENT.--Any mobile home dealer licensed pursuant to s. 320.77, may apply to the department for authority to sell recreational vehicles. The mobile home dealer shall file an application required by this section and shall be governed by the licensing provisions contained herein. No additional license fees or bond shall be required for issuance of this endorsement to the mobile home dealer's license.

(9)  RECORDS TO BE KEPT BY LICENSEE.--Each licensee shall keep records in such form as shall be prescribed by the department. Such records shall include:

(a)  A record of the purchase, sale, or exchange, or receipt for the purpose of sale, of any recreational vehicle.

(b)  The description of each such recreational vehicle, including the identification or serial number and such other numbers or identification marks as may be thereon, and a statement that a number has been obliterated, defaced, or changed, if such fact is apparent.

(c)  The name and address of the seller, the purchaser, and the alleged owner or other person from whom the recreational vehicle was purchased or received and the person to whom it was sold or delivered, as the case may be.

(10)  EVIDENCE OF TITLE REQUIRED.--The licensee shall also have in his or her possession for each new recreational vehicle a manufacturer's invoice or statement of origin, and for each used recreational vehicle a properly assigned certificate of title or registration certificate if the used recreational vehicle was previously registered in a nontitle state, from the time the recreational vehicle is delivered to the licensee until it has been disposed of by the licensee.

(11)  SETUP OPERATIONS.--Each licensee may perform setup operations only as defined in s. 320.822, and the department shall provide by rule for the uniform application of all existing statutory provisions relating to licensing and setup operations.

(12)  PENALTY.--The violation of any provision of this section is a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(13)  INJUNCTION.--In addition to the remedies provided in this chapter, and notwithstanding the existence of any adequate remedy at law, the department is authorized to make application to any circuit court of the state, and the circuit court shall have jurisdiction, upon a hearing and for cause shown, to grant a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from acting as a recreational vehicle dealer under the terms of this section who is not properly licensed or who violates or fails or refuses to comply with any of the provisions of chapter 319 and this chapter or any rule or regulation adopted thereunder. Such injunction shall be issued without bond. A single act in violation of the provisions of chapter 319 or this chapter shall be sufficient to authorize the issuance of an injunction.

(14)  SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION.--The department shall, as it deems necessary, either suspend or revoke any license issued hereunder upon a finding that the licensee violated any provision of this section or of any other law of this state having to do with dealing in recreational vehicles or perpetrated a fraud upon any person as a result of such dealing in recreational vehicles.

(15)  ADMINISTRATIVE FINES.--In addition to the exercise of other powers provided in this section, the department is authorized to assess, impose, levy, and collect by legal process fines, in an amount not to exceed $1,000 for each violation, against any licensee if it finds that a licensee has violated any provision of this section or has violated any other law of this state having to do with dealing in motor vehicles. Any licensee shall be entitled to a hearing pursuant to chapter 120 should the licensee wish to contest the fine levied, or about to be levied, upon him or her.

(16)  BOND.--

(a)  Before any license shall be issued or renewed, the applicant shall deliver to the department a good and sufficient surety bond, executed by the applicant as principal and by a surety company qualified to do business in the state as surety. The bond shall be in a form to be approved by the department and shall be conditioned upon the dealer's complying with the conditions of any written contract made by that dealer in connection with the sale, exchange, or improvement of any recreational vehicle and his or her not violating any of the provisions of chapter 319 or this chapter in the conduct of the business for which he or she is licensed. The bond shall be to the department and in favor of any retail customer who shall suffer any loss as a result of any violation of the conditions hereinabove contained. The bond shall be for the license period, and a new bond or a proper continuation certificate shall be delivered to the department at the beginning of each license period. However, the aggregate liability of the surety in any one license year shall in no event exceed the sum of such bond. The amount of the bond required shall be as follows:

1.  A single dealer who buys, sells, or deals in recreational vehicles and has four or fewer supplemental licenses shall provide a surety bond in the amount of $10,000.

2.  A single dealer who buys, sells, or deals in recreational vehicles and who has more than four supplemental licenses shall provide a surety bond in the amount of $20,000.

For the purposes of this paragraph, any person who buys, sells, or deals in both mobile homes and recreational vehicles shall provide the same surety bond required of dealers who buy, sell, or deal in mobile homes only.

(b)  The department shall, upon denial, suspension, or revocation of any license, notify the surety company of the licensee, in writing, that the license has been denied, suspended, or revoked and shall state the reason for such denial, suspension, or revocation.

(c)  Any surety company which pays any claim against the bond of any licensee shall notify the department, in writing, that it has paid such a claim and shall state the amount of the claim.

(d)  Any surety company which cancels the bond of any licensee shall notify the department, in writing, of such cancellation, giving reason for the cancellation.

(17)  PROHIBITED COMMISSION SHARING.--In accordance with the provisions of s. 626.753, a dealer or recreational vehicle broker, as defined in this section, who is not a licensed insurance agent may not share in the commission on the sale of insurance coverage on the types of recreational vehicles defined in s. 320.01(1)(b) by the creation of a foreign partnership, corporation, or other entity which is controlled by a person or entity not licensed as an insurance agent.

History.--s. 20, ch. 95-333; s. 44, ch. 96-413; s. 35, ch. 97-96; s. 1, ch. 2000-247.

320.781  Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Protection Trust Fund.--

(1)  There is hereby established a Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Protection Trust Fund. The trust fund shall be administered and managed by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The expenses incurred by the department in administering this section shall be paid only from appropriations made from the trust fund.

(2)  Beginning October 1, 1990, the department shall charge and collect an additional fee of $1 for each new mobile home and new recreational vehicle title transaction for which it charges a fee. This additional fee shall be deposited into the trust fund. The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall charge a fee of $40 per annual dealer and manufacturer license and license renewal, which shall be deposited into the trust fund. The sums deposited in the trust fund shall be used exclusively for carrying out the purposes of this section. These sums may be invested and reinvested by the Treasurer under the same limitations as apply to investment of other state funds, with all interest from these investments deposited to the credit of the trust fund.

(3)  The trust fund shall be used to satisfy any judgment by any person, as provided by this section, against a mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker for damages, restitution, or expenses, including reasonable attorney's fees, resulting from a cause of action directly related to the conditions of any written contract made by him or her in connection with the sale, exchange, or improvement of any mobile home or recreational vehicle, or for any violation of chapter 319 or this chapter.

(4)  The trust fund shall not be liable for any judgment, or part thereof, resulting from any tort claim except as expressly provided in subsection (3), nor for any punitive, exemplary, double, or treble damages. A person, the state, or any political subdivision thereof may recover against the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer, broker, or surety, jointly and severally, for such damages, restitution, or expenses; provided, however, that in no event shall the trust fund or the surety be liable for an amount in excess of actual damages, restitution, or expenses.

(5)  Subject to the limitations and requirements of this section, the trust fund shall be used by the department to compensate persons who have unsatisfied judgments, or in certain limited circumstances unsatisfied claims, against a mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker in one of the following situations:

(a)  The claimant has obtained a final judgment which is unsatisfied against the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker or its surety jointly and severally, or against the mobile home dealer or broker only, if the court found that the surety was not liable due to prior payment of valid claims against the bond in an amount equal to, or greater than, the face amount of the applicable bond.

(b)  The claimant has obtained a judgment against the surety of the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker that is unsatisfied.

(c)  The claimant has alleged a claim against the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker in a lawsuit which has been stayed or discharged as a result of the filing for reorganization or discharge in bankruptcy by the dealer or broker, and judgment against the surety is not possible because of the bankruptcy or liquidation of the surety, or because the surety has been found by a court of competent jurisdiction not to be liable due to prior payment of valid claims against the bond in an amount equal to, or greater than, the face amount of the applicable bond.

(6)  In order to recover from the trust fund, the person must file an application and verified claim with the department.

(a)  If the claimant has obtained a judgment which is unsatisfied against the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker or its surety as set forth in this section, the verified claim must specify the following:

1.a.  That the judgment against the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker and its surety has been entered; or

b.  That the judgment against the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker contains a specific finding that the surety has no liability, that execution has been returned unsatisfied, and that a judgment lien has been perfected;

2.  The amount of actual damages broken down by category as awarded by the court or jury in the cause which resulted in the unsatisfied judgment, and the amount of attorney's fees set forth in the unsatisfied judgment;

3.  The amount of payment or other consideration received, if any, from the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker or its surety;

4.  The amount that may be realized, if any, from the sale of real or personal property or other assets of the judgment debtor liable to be sold or applied in satisfaction of the judgment and the balance remaining due on the judgment after application of the amount which has been realized and a certification that the claimant has made a good faith effort to collect the judgment; and

5.  Such other information as the department requires.

(b)  If the claimant has alleged a claim as set forth in paragraph (5)(c) and for the reasons set forth therein has not been able to secure a judgment, the verified claim must contain the following:

1.  A true copy of the pleadings in the lawsuit which was stayed or discharged by the bankruptcy court and the order of the bankruptcy court staying those proceedings;

2.  Allegations of the acts or omissions by the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker setting forth the specific acts or omissions complained of which resulted in actual damage to the person, along with the actual dollar amount necessary to reimburse or compensate the person for costs or expenses resulting from the acts or omissions of which the person complained;

3.  True copies of all purchase agreements, notices, service or repair orders or papers or documents of any kind whatsoever which the person received in connection with the purchase, exchange, or lease-purchase of the mobile home or recreational vehicle from which the person's cause of action arises; and

4.  Such other information as the department requires.

(c)  The department may require such proof as it deems necessary to document the matters set forth in the claim.

(7)  Within 90 days after receipt of the application and verified claim, the department shall issue its determination on the claim. Such determination shall not be subject to the provisions of chapter 120, but shall be reviewable only by writ of certiorari in the circuit court in the county in which the claimant resides in the manner and within the time provided by the Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure. The claim must be paid within 45 days after the determination, or, if judicial review is sought, within 45 days after the review becomes final. A person may not be paid an amount from the fund in excess of $25,000 per mobile home or recreational vehicle. Prior to payment, the person must execute an assignment to the department of all the person's rights and title to, and interest in, the unsatisfied judgment and judgment lien or the claim against the dealer or broker and its surety.

(8)  The department, in its discretion and where feasible, may try to recover from the mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker, or the judgment debtor or its surety, all sums paid to persons from the trust fund. Any sums recovered shall be deposited to the credit of the trust fund. The department shall be awarded a reasonable attorney's fee for all actions taken to recover any sums paid to persons from the trust fund pursuant to this section.

(9)  This section does not apply to any claim, and a person may not recover against the trust fund as the result of any claim, against a mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or broker resulting from a cause of action directly related to the sale, lease-purchase, exchange, brokerage, or installation of a mobile home or recreational vehicle prior to October 1, 1990.

(10)  Neither the department, nor the trust fund shall be liable to any person for recovery if the trust fund does not have the moneys necessary to pay amounts claimed. If the trust fund does not have sufficient assets to pay the claimant, it shall log the time and date of its determination for payment to a claimant. If moneys become available, the department shall pay the claimant whose unpaid claim is the earliest by time and date of determination.

(11)  It is unlawful for any person or his or her agent to file any notice, statement, or other document required under this section which is false or contains any material misstatement of fact. Any person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 1, ch. 90-221; s. 376, ch. 95-148.

320.822  Definitions; ss. 320.822-320.862.--In construing ss. 320.822-320.862, unless the context otherwise requires, the following words or phrases have the following meanings:

(1)  "Buyer" means a person who purchases at retail from a dealer or manufacturer a mobile home or recreational vehicle for his or her own use as a residence, or other related use.

(2)  "Code" means the appropriate standards found in:

(a)  The Federal Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards for single-family mobile homes, promulgated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development;

(b)  The Uniform Standards Code approved by the American National Standards Institute, ANSI A-119.2 for recreational vehicles and ANSI A-119.5 for park trailers or the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development standard for park trailers certified as meeting that standard; or

(c)  The Mobile Home Repair and Remodeling Code and Used Recreational Vehicle Code.

(3)  "Construction" means the minimum requirements for materials, products, equipment, and workmanship needed to assure that the mobile home or recreational vehicle will provide structural strength and rigidity; protection against corrosion, decay, and other similar destructive forces; resistance to the elements; and durability and economy of maintenance.

(4)  "Institute" means the United States of America Standards Institute.

(5)  "Length," for purposes of transportation only, means the distance from the extreme front of the mobile home or recreational vehicle, to the extreme rear, including the drawbar and coupling mechanism, but not including expandable features that do not project from the body during transportation.

(6)  "Length of a mobile home" means the distance from the exterior of the front wall (nearest to the drawbar and coupling mechanism) to the exterior of the rear wall (at the opposite end of the home) where such walls enclose living or other interior space and such distance includes expandable rooms but not bay windows, porches, drawbars, couplings, hitches, wall and roof extensions, or other attachments.

(7)  "Licensee" means any person licensed or required to be licensed under s. 320.8225.

(8)  "Mobile home dealer" means any person engaged in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in mobile homes or offering or displaying mobile homes for sale. Any person who buys, sells, or deals in one or more mobile homes in any 12-month period or who offers or displays for sale one or more mobile homes in any 12-month period shall be prima facie presumed to be engaged in the business of a mobile home dealer. The terms "selling" and "sale" include lease-purchase transactions. The term "mobile home dealer" does not include a bank, credit union, or finance company that acquires mobile homes as an incident to its regular business, does not include a mobile home rental or leasing company that sells mobile homes to mobile home dealers licensed under s. 320.77, and does not include persons who are selling their own mobile homes.

(9)  "Recreational vehicle dealer" means any person engaged in the business of buying, selling, or dealing in recreational vehicles or offering or displaying recreational vehicles for sale. The term "dealer" includes a recreational vehicle broker. Any person who buys, sells, deals in, or offers or displays for sale, or who acts as the agent for the sale of, one or more recreational vehicles in any 12-month period shall be prima facie presumed to be a dealer. The terms "selling" and "sale" include lease-purchase transactions. The term "dealer" does not include banks, credit unions, and finance companies that acquire recreational vehicles as an incident to their regular business and does not include mobile home rental and leasing companies that sell recreational vehicles to dealers licensed under s. 320.771.

(10)  "Mobile home manufacturer" means any person, resident or nonresident, who, as a trade or commerce, manufactures or assembles mobile homes.

(11)  "Recreational vehicle manufacturer" means any person, resident or nonresident, who, as a trade or commerce, manufactures or assembles recreational vehicles or van-type vehicles in such manner that they then qualify as recreational vehicles, for sale in this state.

(12)  "Responsible party" means a manufacturer, dealer, or supplier.

(13)  "Seal" or "label" means a device issued by the department certifying that a mobile home or recreational vehicle meets the appropriate code, which device is to be displayed on the exterior of the mobile home or recreational vehicle.

(14)  "Setup" means the operations performed at the occupancy site which render a mobile home or park trailer fit for habitation. Such operations include, but are not limited to, transporting, positioning, blocking, leveling, supporting, tying down, connecting utility systems, making minor adjustments, or assembling multiple or expandable units.

(15)  "Substantial defect" means:

(a)  Any substantial deficiency or defect in materials or workmanship occurring to a mobile home or recreational vehicle which has been reasonably maintained and cared for in normal use.

(b)  Any structural element, utility system, or component of the mobile home or recreational vehicle, which fails to comply with the code.

(16)  "Supplier" means the original producer of completed components, including refrigerators, stoves, hot water heaters, dishwashers, cabinets, air conditioners, heating units, and similar components, which are furnished to a manufacturer or dealer for installation in the mobile home or recreational vehicle prior to sale to a buyer.

(17)  "Width of a mobile home" means the distance from the exterior of one side wall to the exterior of the opposite side wall where such walls enclose living or other interior space and such distance includes expandable rooms but not bay windows, porches, wall and roof extensions, or other attachments.

(18)  "Body size" of a park trailer, travel trailer, or fifth-wheel trailer means the distance from the exterior side or end to the opposite exterior side or end of the body. Such distance includes expandable rooms, bay windows, wall and roof extensions, or other extrusions in the travel mode. The following exceptions apply:

(a)  Travel trailers shall not exceed 320 square feet. All square footage measurements are of the exterior when in setup mode, including bay windows.

(b)  Park trailers constructed to ANSI A-119.5 shall not exceed 400 square feet. Park trailers constructed to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development standard shall not exceed 500 square feet. All square footage measurements are of the exterior when in setup mode and do not include bay windows.

(c)  Fifth-wheel trailers may not exceed 400 square feet. All square footage measurements are of the exterior when in setup mode, including bay windows.

History.--s. 3, ch. 67-350; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 96, ch. 71-377; s. 2, ch. 74-169; s. 3, ch. 75-203; s. 1, ch. 76-195; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 33, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 78-221; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 2, ch. 84-182; ss. 7, 9, ch. 85-343; s. 8, ch. 87-225; ss. 4, 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 42, ch. 94-306; s. 918, ch. 95-148; s. 21, ch. 95-333.

320.8225  Mobile home and recreational vehicle manufacturer's license.--

(1)  LICENSE REQUIRED.--Any person who engages in the business of a mobile home or recreational vehicle manufacturer in this state, or who manufactures mobile homes or recreational vehicles out of state which are ultimately offered for sale in this state, shall obtain annually a license for each factory location in this state and for each factory location out of state which manufactures mobile homes or recreational vehicles for sale in this state, prior to distributing mobile homes or recreational vehicles for sale in this state.

(2)  APPLICATION.--The application for a license shall be in the form prescribed by the department and shall contain sufficient information to disclose the identity, location, and responsibility of the applicant. The application shall also include a copy of the warranty and a complete statement of any service agreement or policy to be utilized by the applicant, any information relating to the applicant's solvency and financial standing, and any other pertinent matter commensurate with safeguarding the public. The department may prescribe an abbreviated application for renewal of a license if the licensee had previously filed an initial application pursuant to this section. The application for renewal shall include any information necessary to bring current the information required in the initial application.

(3)  FEES.--Upon making initial application, the applicant shall pay to the department a fee of $300. Upon making renewal application, the applicant shall pay to the department a fee of $100. Any applicant for renewal who has failed to submit his or her renewal application by October 1 shall pay a renewal application fee equal to the original application fee. No fee is refundable. All fees shall be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.

(4)  NONRESIDENT.--Any person applying for a license who is not a resident of this state shall have designated an agent for service of process pursuant to s. 48.181.

(5)  REQUIREMENT OF ASSURANCE.--

(a)  Annually, prior to the receipt of a license to manufacture mobile homes, the applicant or licensee shall submit a surety bond, cash bond, or letter of credit from a financial institution, or a proper continuation certificate, sufficient to assure satisfaction of claims against the licensee for failure to comply with appropriate code standards, failure to provide warranty service, or violation of any provisions of this section. The amount of the surety bond, cash bond, or letter of credit shall be $50,000. Only one surety bond, cash bond, or letter of credit shall be required for each manufacturer, regardless of the number of factory locations. The surety bond, cash bond, or letter of credit shall be to the department, in favor of any retail customer who shall suffer loss arising out of noncompliance with code standards or failure to honor or provide warranty service. The department shall have the right to disapprove any bond or letter of credit that does not provide assurance as provided in this section.

(b)  Annually, prior to the receipt of a license to manufacture recreational vehicles, the applicant or licensee shall submit a surety bond, or a proper continuation certificate, sufficient to assure satisfaction of claims against the licensee for failure to comply with appropriate code standards, failure to provide warranty service, or violation of any provisions of this section. The amount of the surety bond shall be $10,000 per year. The surety bond shall be to the department, in favor of any retail customer who shall suffer loss arising out of noncompliance with code standards or failure to honor or provide warranty service. The department shall have the right to disapprove any bond which does not provide assurance as provided in this section.

(c)  The department shall adopt rules pursuant to chapter 120 consistent with this section in providing assurance of satisfaction of claims.

(d)  The department shall, upon denial, suspension, or revocation of any license, notify the surety company of the licensee, in writing, that the license has been denied, suspended, or revoked and shall state the reason for such denial, suspension, or revocation.

(e)  Any surety company which pays any claim against the bond of any licensee shall notify the department, in writing, that it has paid such a claim and shall state the amount of the claim.

(f)  Any surety company which cancels the bond of any licensee shall notify the department, in writing, of such cancellation, giving reason for the cancellation.

(6)  LICENSE YEAR.--A license issued to a mobile home or recreational vehicle manufacturer entitles the licensee to conduct the business of a mobile home or recreational vehicle manufacturer for a period of 1 year from October 1 preceding the date of issuance.

(7)  DENIAL OF LICENSE.--The department may deny a mobile home or recreational vehicle manufacturer's license on the ground that:

(a)  The applicant has made a material misstatement in his or her application for a license.

(b)  The applicant has failed to comply with any applicable provision of this chapter.

(c)  The applicant has failed to provide warranty service.

(d)  The applicant or one or more of his or her principals or agents has violated any law, rule, or regulation relating to the manufacture or sale of mobile homes or recreational vehicles.

(e)  The department has proof of unfitness of the applicant.

(f)  The applicant or licensee has engaged in previous conduct in any state which would have been a ground for revocation or suspension of a license in this state.

(g)  The applicant or licensee has violated any of the provisions of the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 or any rule or regulation of the Department of Housing and Urban Development promulgated thereunder.

Upon denial of a license, the department shall notify the applicant within 10 days, stating in writing its grounds for denial. The applicant is entitled to a public hearing and may request that such hearing be held within 45 days of denial of the license. All proceedings shall be pursuant to chapter 120.

(8)  REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE.--The department shall suspend or, in the case of a subsequent offense, shall revoke any license upon a finding that the licensee violated any provision of this chapter or any other law of this state regarding the manufacture, warranty, or sale of mobile homes or recreational vehicles. When any license has been revoked or suspended by the department, it may be reinstated if the department finds that the former licensee has complied with all applicable requirements of this chapter and an application for a license is refiled pursuant to this section.

(9)  CIVIL PENALTIES; PROCEDURE.--In addition to the exercise of other powers provided in this section, the department is authorized to assess, impose, levy, and collect by legal process a civil penalty, in an amount not to exceed $1,000 for each violation, against any licensee if it finds that a licensee has violated any provision of this section or has violated any other law of this state having to do with dealing in motor vehicles. Any licensee shall be entitled to a hearing pursuant to chapter 120 should the licensee wish to contest the fine levied, or about to be levied, upon him or her.

History.--s. 3, ch. 74-169; s. 4. ch. 75-203; s. 34, ch. 77-357; s. 20, ch. 78-95; s. 9, ch. 80-217; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 7, ch. 85-176; s. 43, ch. 86-243; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 377, ch. 95-148; s. 6, ch. 96-394.

320.823  Establishment of uniform mobile home standards.--Each single-family mobile home manufactured in this state or manufactured outside this state but sold or offered for sale in this state shall meet the Federal Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards, promulgated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Each duplex mobile home manufactured in this state or manufactured outside this state but sold or offered for sale in this state shall be constructed to meet the Federal Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards. Construction requirements shall include a 1-hour-fire-rated wall separating the two units. Such standards shall include, but not be limited to, standards for body and frame construction and the installation of plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.

History.--s. 4, ch. 67-350; s. 5, ch. 75-203; s. 35, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 5, 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.8231  Establishment of uniform standards for recreational vehicle-type units and park trailers.--

(1)  Each recreational vehicle-type unit, as defined in s. 320.01(1)(b), manufactured in this state or manufactured outside this state but sold or offered for sale in this state shall meet the Uniform Standards Code ANSI book A-119.2 or A-119.5, as applicable, approved by the American National Standards Institute. Such standards shall include, but are not limited to, standards for the installation of plumbing, heating, and electrical systems and fire and life safety in recreational vehicle-type units and park trailers. However, those park trailers exceeding 400 square feet shall meet the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards and shall have a United States Department of Housing and Urban Development label.

(2)  Trailer hitches or other trailer connecting devices manufactured, sold, or offered for sale in this state for use with any trailer governed by this section or for use in towing boats must conform to the certification standards in Vehicle Equipment Safety Commission Regulation V-5.

History.--s. 6, ch. 75-203; s. 35, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 3, ch. 84-182; s. 10, ch. 85-343; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 1, ch. 90-78; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 66, ch. 94-306; s. 1, ch. 96-358.

320.8232  Establishment of uniform standards for used recreational vehicles and repair and remodeling code for mobile homes.--

(1)  Each used recreational vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1968, and sold or offered for sale in this state by a dealer or manufacturer shall meet the standards of the Used Recreational Vehicle Code. The provisions of said code shall ensure safe and livable housing and shall not be more stringent than those standards required to be met in the manufacture of recreational vehicles. Such provisions shall include, but not be limited to, standards for structural adequacy, plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and fire and life safety.

(2)  The provisions of the repair and remodeling code shall ensure safe and livable housing and shall not be more stringent than those standards required to be met in the manufacture of mobile homes. Such provisions shall include, but not be limited to, standards for structural adequacy, plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and fire and life safety.

History.--s. 36, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 11, ch. 85-343; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.824  Changes and modifications of standards.--

(1)  The department may adopt by rule changes in, or additions to, the standards adopted in s. 320.823 or s. 320.8231, which are approved and officially published by the institute or promulgated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development subsequent to the effective date of this act.

(2)  The department or its authorized agent may enter any place or establishment where mobile homes are manufactured, sold, or offered for sale, for the purpose of ascertaining whether the requirements of the code and the rules adopted by the department have been met.

History.--s. 5, ch. 67-350; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 37, ch. 77-357; s. 67, ch. 79-164; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 67, ch. 94-306; s. 2, ch. 96-358; s. 64, ch. 98-200.

320.8245  Limitation of alteration or modification to mobile homes or recreational vehicles.--

(1)  LIMITATION OF ALTERATIONS OR MODIFICATIONS.--No alteration or modification shall be made to a mobile home or recreational vehicle by a licensed dealer after shipment from the manufacturer's plant unless such alteration or modification is authorized in this section.

(2)  EFFECT ON MOBILE HOME WARRANTY.--Unless an alteration or modification is performed by a qualified person as defined in subsection (4), the warranty responsibility of the manufacturer as to the altered or modified item shall be void.

(a)  An alteration or modification performed by a mobile home or recreational vehicle dealer or his or her agent or employee shall place warranty responsibility for the altered or modified item upon the dealer. If the manufacturer fulfills, or is required to fulfill, the warranty on the altered or modified item, he or she shall be entitled to recover damages in the amount of his or her costs and attorneys' fees from the dealer.

(b)  An alteration or modification performed by a mobile home or recreational vehicle owner or his or her agent shall render the manufacturer's warranty as to that item void. A statement shall be displayed clearly and conspicuously on the face of the warranty that the warranty is void as to the altered or modified item if the alteration or modification is performed by other than a qualified person. Failure to display such statement shall result in warranty responsibility on the manufacturer.

(3)  AUTHORITY OF THE DEPARTMENT.--The department is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations pursuant to chapter 120 which define the alterations or modifications which must be made by qualified personnel. The department may regulate only those alterations and modifications which substantially impair the structural integrity or safety of the mobile home.

(4)  DESIGNATION AS A QUALIFIED PERSON.--

(a)  In order to be designated as a person qualified to alter or modify a mobile home or recreational vehicle, a person must comply with local or county licensing or competency requirements in skills relevant to performing alterations or modifications on mobile homes or recreational vehicles.

(b)  When no local or county licensing or competency requirements exist, the department may certify persons to perform mobile home alterations or modifications. The department shall by rule or regulation determine what skills and competency requirements are requisite to the issuance of a certification. A fee sufficient to cover the costs of issuing certifications may be charged by the department. The certification shall be valid for a period which terminates when the county or other local governmental unit enacts relevant competency or licensing requirements. The certification shall be valid only in counties or localities without licensing or competency requirements.

(c)  The department shall determine which counties and localities have licensing or competency requirements adequate to eliminate the requirement of certification. This determination shall be based on a review of the relevant county or local standards for adequacy in regulating persons who perform alterations or modifications to mobile homes. The department shall find local or county standards adequate when minimal licensing or competency standards are provided.

History.--s. 4, ch. 74-169; s. 38, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 378, ch. 95-148.

320.8249  Mobile home installers license.--

(1)  Any person who engages in mobile home installation shall obtain a mobile home installers license from the Bureau of Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Construction of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles pursuant to this section. Said license shall be renewed annually, and each licensee shall pay a fee of $150.

(2)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall issue a license as a mobile home installer to any person who applies to the department, pays the appropriate application fee, not to exceed $100, as set by department rule, and complies with subsection (3).

(3)  In order to obtain licensure as a mobile home installer, the applicant must be at least 18 years old, must hold a valid performance bond in an amount set by department rule, not to exceed $5,000, conditioned upon proper performance of mobile home installation and weather-sealing duties for a period of 1 year, must carry liability insurance in an amount determined by department rule, not to exceed $100,000, must complete a minimum 8-hour training course approved by the department, and must pass a department-approved examination designed to test the skills necessary to properly and competently perform mobile home installation and to ascertain that the applicant has adequate knowledge of federal, state, and local laws applicable to mobile home installation contracting. The department may charge an examination fee sufficient to defray the costs of developing or obtaining and providing the examination, not to exceed $100. Any licensed dealer or licensed manufacturer who has subcontracted with an installer for installation and who remedies any faulty installation performed by said installer shall have recourse against said installer's performance bond.

(4)  Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (3), any person who can show that he or she had been engaged in the business of mobile home installation on October 1, 1996, shall be exempted until October 1, 1997, from the requirement for completing training and for passing an examination in order to be licensed by the department as a mobile home installer and shall be licensed upon application, provided he or she has complied with all requirements of subsection (3), other than the training and examination requirements. No person shall be licensed or remain licensed as a mobile home installer subsequent to October 1, 1997, who has not taken and passed the department-approved mobile home installer examination.

(5)  A direct employee of a licensed mobile home installer working under the supervision of the licensee and within the job scope of the licensee is not required to be licensed as a mobile home installer. The licensed mobile home installer is responsible for supervising all such employees and for the proper and competent performance of all employees working under his or her supervision.

(6)  "Installation," as used herein, is synonymous with "setup" as defined in s. 320.822(14).

(7)  No person shall:

(a)  Falsely hold himself or herself or a business organization out as a licensed mobile home installer;

(b)  Falsely impersonate a licensed mobile home installer;

(c)  Present as his or her own the mobile home installers license of another;

(d)  Knowingly give false or forged evidence to the department;

(e)  Use or attempt to use a mobile home installers license which has been suspended or revoked; or

(f)  Engage in the business or act in the capacity of a licensed mobile home installer or advertise himself or herself or a business organization as available to engage in the business or act in the capacity of a mobile home installer without being duly licensed.

(8)  Any unlicensed person who violates any of the provisions of subsection (7) is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(9)  No licensed person nor licensed applicant shall:

(a)  Obtain a mobile home installers license by fraud or misrepresentation.

(b)  Be convicted or found guilty of, or enter a plea of nolo contendere to, regardless of adjudication, a crime in any jurisdiction which directly relates to the practice of mobile home installation or the ability to practice.

(c)  Violate any lawful order of the department.

(d)  Commit fraud or deceit in the practice of contracting.

(e)  Commit incompetence or misconduct in the practice of contracting.

(f)  Commit gross negligence, repeated negligence, or negligence resulting in a significant danger to life or property.

(g)  Commit violations of the installation standards for mobile homes or manufactured homes contained in rules 15C-1.0102 to 15C-1.0104, Florida Administrative Code.

(10)  Any licensed person or license applicant who violates any provision of subsection (9) may have any of the following disciplinary penalties imposed by the department:

(a)  License revocation;

(b)  License suspension;

(c)  A fine not to exceed $1,000 per violation;

(d)  A requirement to take and pass, or retake and pass, the department-approved examination;

(e)  Probation;

(f)  Probation subject to such restriction of practice as the department chooses to impose;

(g)  A notice of noncompliance; or

(h)  Refusal of licensure application.

(11)  The regulation of manufactured home installers or mobile home installers is preempted to the state, and no person may perform mobile home installation unless licensed pursuant to this section, regardless of whether that person holds a local license.

(12)  No county, municipality, or other unit of local government may require additional licensing of a duly licensed installer who performs setup operations as defined in s. 320.822. However, a county, municipality, or other unit of local government may require an installer to obtain a local occupational license, which license shall not require for its issuance any conditions other than those required by this act and payment of the appropriate occupational license fee.

(13)  All installers, dealers, and manufacturers shall purchase installation decals from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for a fee not to exceed $10 per decal. An installation decal shall be affixed to the manufactured home or mobile home prior to installation. This decal shall denote the date of installation, the name of the installer, and the number of the installer's license or the dealer or manufacturer license number. Such decal shall be positioned immediately next to the HUD decal.

(14)  In performing the installation, installers shall not perform plumbing or electrical activities prohibited by department rules related to setup operations pursuant to s. 320.822.

(15)  Funds received by the department pursuant to this section shall be deposited in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund.

(16)  There are hereby appropriated five positions and $219,295 from the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund in the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to implement the provisions of this section.

History.--s. 5, ch. 96-394; s. 37, ch. 99-248.

320.8255  Mobile home inspection.--

(1)  In order to ensure the highest degree of quality control in the construction of new mobile homes, each new mobile home sold in the state shall be inspected by the department pursuant to procedures developed by the department which assure compliance with code provisions. The department may adopt reasonable rules and regulations pursuant to chapter 120 for the implementation and enforcement of this inspection.

(2)  Department inspectors shall make unannounced visits to manufacturing plants or take any other appropriate action which assures compliance with the code.

(3)  Mobile home manufacturers and dealers shall be charged a fee for special inspections, including, but not limited to, plant approvals, 100 percent plant inspections, increased frequency inspections, reinspections, and special consumer complaint investigations as requested by a manufacturer or dealer or as may be deemed necessary by the department.

(4)  The department shall determine fees for special inspections and for the label authorized under s. 320.827 which are sufficient to cover the cost of inspection and administration under this section. Fees collected shall be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.

History.--s. 5, ch. 74-169; s. 39, ch. 77-357; s. 10, ch. 80-217; s. 200, ch. 81-259; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 10, ch. 82-66; ss. 6, 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 275, ch. 99-248.

320.827  Label; procedures for issuance; certification; requirements.--No dealer shall sell or offer for sale in this state any new mobile home manufactured after January 1, 1968, unless the mobile home bears a label and the certification by the manufacturer that the mobile home to which the label is attached meets or exceeds the appropriate code. Any mobile home bearing the insignia of approval pursuant to this section shall be deemed to comply with the requirements of all local government ordinances or rules which govern construction, and no mobile home bearing the department insignia of approval shall be in any way modified except in compliance with this chapter. Labels may be issued by the department when applied for with an affidavit certifying that the dealer or manufacturer applying will not attach a label to any new mobile home that does not meet or exceed the appropriate code. No mobile home may be manufactured in this state unless it bears a label and certification that the mobile home meets or exceeds the code. The label for each mobile home shall be displayed in a manner to be prescribed by the department.

History.--s. 8, ch. 67-350; s. 7, ch. 75-203; s. 40, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 11, ch. 82-66; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 3, ch. 96-358; s. 53, ch. 97-100.

320.8285  Onsite inspection.--

(1)  Each county or municipality in this state shall prepare and adopt a plan providing for an onsite inspection of each mobile home located within such entity. The onsite inspection shall ensure compliance with state and local building codes, ordinances, and regulations regarding such functions as blocking and leveling, tie-downs, utility connections, conversions of appliances, and external improvements on the mobile home. If a mobile home is manufactured in conformity with the code, as established in s. 320.823, a county may not require modification of the mobile home in order to comply with local tie-down regulations.

(2)  When a county or municipality has not prepared and adopted a plan providing for onsite inspection, the department shall prepare a minimum onsite inspection plan for such county. The department may promulgate reasonable rules and regulations pursuant to chapter 120 in preparing and enforcing such a minimum onsite inspection plan.

(3)  Each county or municipality may designate the persons who are to perform the onsite inspection. If a county or municipality does not so designate, the department shall designate the persons who are to perform the onsite inspection. No person shall be designated to perform onsite inspections unless such person is competent in the areas of mobile home blocking and leveling, tie-downs, utility connections, conversions of appliances, and external improvements. Pursuant to the onsite inspection, each mobile home shall be issued a certificate of occupancy if the mobile home complies with state and local building codes, ordinances, and regulations regarding such functions as blocking and leveling, tie-downs, utility connections, conversion of appliances, and external improvements to the mobile home.

(4)  Fees for onsite inspections and certificates of occupancy of mobile homes shall be reasonable for the services performed. A guideline for fee schedules shall be issued by the department.

(5)  The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shall enforce every provision of this section and the regulations adopted pursuant hereto, except that local land use and zoning requirements, fire zones, building setback and side and rear yard requirements, site development and property line requirements, subdivision control, and onsite installation requirements, as well as review and regulation of architectural and aesthetic requirements, are hereby specifically and entirely reserved to local jurisdictions. However, any architectural or aesthetic requirement imposed on the mobile home structure itself may pertain only to roofing and siding materials. Such local requirements and regulations and others for manufactured homes must be reasonable, uniformly applied, and enforced without distinctions as to whether such housing is manufactured, located in a mobile home park or a mobile home subdivision, or built in a conventional manner. No local jurisdiction shall prohibit siting or resiting of used mobile homes based solely on the date the unit was manufactured.

(6)  Park trailers are subject to inspection in the same manner as are mobile homes pursuant to this section.

History.--s. 6, ch. 74-169; s. 10, ch. 75-203; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 12, ch. 82-66; s. 4, ch. 84-182; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 6, ch. 92-148; s. 68, ch. 94-306; s. 49, ch. 97-300.

320.830  Reciprocity.--If any other state has codes for mobile homes at least equal to those established by this chapter, the department, upon determining that such standards are being enforced by an independent inspection agency, shall place the other state on a reciprocity list, which list shall be available to any interested person. Any mobile home that bears a seal of any state which has been placed on the reciprocity list may not be required to bear the seal of this state. A mobile home that does not bear the label herein provided shall not be permitted to be manufactured or offered for sale by a manufacturer or dealer anywhere within the geographical limits of this state unless the mobile home is designated for delivery into another state that has not adopted a code entitling the state to be placed on the reciprocity list.

History.--s. 11, ch. 67-350; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 8, ch. 74-169; s. 8, ch. 75-203; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 4, ch. 96-358.

320.831  Penalties.--

(1)  Whoever violates any provision of the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, 42 U.S.C. ss. 5401 et seq., or any rules, regulations, or final order issued thereunder shall be liable for a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000 for each such violation. Each violation of a provision of the act or any rule, regulation, or order issued thereunder shall constitute a separate violation with respect to each mobile home or with respect to each failure or refusal to allow or perform an act required thereby, except that the maximum civil penalty may not exceed $1 million for any related series of violations occurring within 1 year from the date of the first violation.

(2)  Any individual, or a director, officer, or agent of a corporation, who knowingly and willfully violates the provisions of s. 610 of the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 in a manner which threatens the health or safety of any purchaser is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

(3)  Any manufacturer, dealer, or inspector who violates or fails to comply with any of the provisions of ss. 320.822-320.862 or any of the rules adopted by the department is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, provided such violation is not also a violation of the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 or any rule, regulation, or final order issued thereunder.

History.--s. 12, ch. 67-350; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 74-99; s. 41, ch. 77-357; s. 5, ch. 78-221; s. 12, ch. 80-217; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 41, ch. 91-224; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.832  Legislative intent.--Nothing herein shall act to nullify or supersede the provisions of chapter 527.

History.--s. 13, ch. 67-350; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.8325  Mobile homes and park trailers; tie-down requirements; minimum installation standards; injunctions; penalty.--

(1)  The owner of a mobile home or park trailer shall secure the mobile home or park trailer to the ground by the use of anchors and tie-downs so as to resist wind overturning and sliding. However, nothing herein shall be construed as requiring that anchors and tie-downs be installed to secure mobile homes or park trailers which are permanently attached to a permanent structure. A permanent structure shall have a foundation and such other structural elements as are required pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the department which assure the rigidity and stability of the mobile home or park trailer.

(a)  A mobile home or park trailer manufactured in accordance with the code standards and labeled "hurricane and windstorm resistive" shall be anchored to each anchor point provided on the mobile home or park trailer. A mobile home or park trailer which does not meet these standards must be anchored with anchor points spaced as required by the department starting at each end of the mobile home or park trailer.

(b)  In addition, each mobile home or park trailer shall be tied down by one of the following means:

1.  A mobile home or park trailer having built-in, over-the-roof ties shall be secured by the tie-down points, provided such built-in ties and points meet the standards promulgated by the department.

2.  A mobile home or park trailer not having built-in, over-the-roof ties and tie-down points which meet department standards shall be secured in accordance with standards promulgated by the department.

(2)  The department shall promulgate rules and regulations setting forth uniform standards for the manufacture or installation of anchors, tie-downs, over-the-roof ties, or other reliable methods of securing mobile homes or park trailers when over-the-roof ties are not suitable due to factors such as unreasonable cost, design of the mobile home or park trailer, or potential damage to the mobile home or park trailer. No entity, other than the department, has authority to amend these uniform standards. Such devices required under this section, when properly installed, shall cause the mobile home or park trailer to resist wind overturning and sliding. In promulgating such rules and regulations, the department may make such discriminations regarding mobile home or park trailer tie-down requirements as are reasonable when factors such as age, location, and practicality of tying down a mobile home or park trailer are considered.

(3)(a)  Persons licensed in this state to engage in the business of insuring mobile homes or park trailers that are subject to the provisions of this section against damage from windstorm shall issue such insurance only if the mobile home or park trailer has been anchored and tied down in accordance with the provisions of this section.

(b)  In the event that a mobile home or park trailer is insured against damage caused by windstorm and subsequently sustains windstorm damage of a nature that indicates that the mobile home or park trailer was not anchored or tied down in the manner required by this section, the person issuing the policy shall not be relieved from meeting the obligations specified in the insurance policy with respect to such damage on the basis that the mobile home or park trailer was not properly anchored or tied down.

(4)  Whenever a person who engages in the business of installing anchors, tie-downs, or over-the-roof ties or who engages in the business of manufacturing, distributing, or dealing in such devices for use in this state does so in a manner that is not in accordance with the minimum standards set forth by the department, a person aggrieved thereby may bring an action in the appropriate court for actual damages. In addition, the court may provide appropriate equitable relief, including the enjoining of a violator from engaging in the business or from engaging in further violations. Whenever it is established to the satisfaction of the court that a willful violation has occurred, the court shall award punitive damages to the aggrieved party. The losing party may be liable for court costs and reasonable attorney's fees incurred by the prevailing party.

(5)  In addition to other penalties provided in this section, the department or the state attorneys and their assistants are authorized to apply to the circuit courts within their respective jurisdictions, and such courts shall have jurisdiction, upon hearing and for cause shown, to grant temporary or permanent injunctions restraining any persons engaging in the business of manufacturing, distributing, or dealing in anchors, tie-downs, or over-the-roof ties from manufacturing or selling such devices in a manner not in accordance with the minimum standards set forth by the department or restraining any persons in the business of installing anchors, tie-downs, or over-the-roof ties from utilizing devices that do not meet the minimum standards set forth by the department or from installing such devices in a manner not in accordance with the minimum standards set forth by the department, whether or not there exists an adequate remedy at law, and such injunctions shall issue without bond.

(6)  This section only applies to a mobile home or park trailer that is being used as a dwelling place and that is located on a particular location for a period of time exceeding 14 days, for a mobile home, or 45 days, for a park trailer.

(7)  For the purposes of this section, the definitions set forth in s. 320.822 apply.

History.--s. 6, ch. 73-182; s. 2, ch. 74-9; s. 2, ch. 81-318; s. 4, ch. 84-182; s. 12, ch. 85-343; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 38, ch. 99-248.

320.833  Retention, destruction, and reproduction of records; electronic retention.--Records and documents of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, created in compliance with, and in the implementation of, chapter 319 and this chapter, shall be retained by the department as specified in record retention schedules established under the general provisions of chapter 119. Further, the department is hereby authorized:

(1)  To destroy, or otherwise dispose of, those records and documents, in conformity with the approved retention schedules.

(2)  To photograph, microphotograph, or reproduce on film, as authorized and directed by the approved retention schedules, whereby each page will be exposed in exact conformity with the original records and documents retained in compliance with the provisions of this section. Photographs or microphotographs in the form of film or print of any records, made in compliance with the provisions of this section, shall have the same force and effect as the originals thereof would have and shall be treated as originals for the purpose of their admissibility in evidence. Duly certified or authenticated reproductions of such photographs or microphotographs shall be admitted in evidence equally with the original photographs or microphotographs.

(3)  Beginning December 1, 2001, the department may maintain all records required or obtained in compliance with, and in the implementation of, chapter 319 and this chapter exclusively by electronic means.

History.--s. 5, ch. 65-190; ss. 24, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 77-443; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 33, ch. 2000-313.

Note.--Former s. 318.051.

320.8335  Disclosure of manner used in determining length of mobile homes.--When the length of the coupling mechanism is included in the overall length of a mobile home, any person who engages in the trade or commerce of selling mobile homes must disclose in writing to the buyer, before the buyer signs a contract for sale, that the length of the coupling mechanism has been included in the length of the mobile home. Any advertisement or other communication which describes a mobile home in terms of its length or width shall conform to the requirements of this section.

History.--s. 1, ch. 75-27; s. 3, ch. 78-221; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.834  Purpose.--It is the intent of the Legislature to ensure the safety and welfare of residents of mobile homes through an inspection program conducted by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Mobile homes are a primary housing resource of many of the residents of the state and satisfy a large segment of statewide housing needs. It is the further intent of the Legislature that the department, mobile home dealers, and mobile home manufacturers continue to work together to meet the applicable code requirements for mobile homes and that such dealers and manufacturers share the responsibilities of warranting mobile homes in accordance with applicable codes and resolving legitimate consumer complaints in a timely, efficient manner.

History.--s. 16, ch. 74-68; s. 9, ch. 74-169; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 8, 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.835  Mobile home and recreational vehicle warranties.--Each manufacturer, dealer, and supplier of mobile homes or recreational vehicles shall warrant each new mobile home or recreational vehicle sold in this state and the setup of each such mobile home, in accordance with the warranty requirements prescribed by this section, for a period of at least 12 months, measured from the date of delivery of the mobile home to the buyer or the date of sale of the recreational vehicle. The warranty requirements of each manufacturer, dealer, and supplier of mobile homes or recreational vehicles are as follows:

(1)  The manufacturer warrants:

(a)  For a mobile home or recreational vehicle, that all structural elements; plumbing systems; heating, cooling, and fuel-burning systems; electrical systems; fire prevention systems; and any other components or conditions included by the manufacturer are free from substantial defect.

(b)  That 100-ampere electrical service exists in the mobile home.

(2)  The dealer warrants:

(a)  That any modifications or alterations made to the mobile home or recreational vehicle by the dealer or authorized by the dealer shall be free from substantial defect. Alterations or modifications made by a dealer shall relieve the manufacturer of warranty responsibility only as to the item altered or modified.

(b)  That setup operations performed on the mobile home are performed in compliance with s. 320.8325.

(c)  That substantial defects do not occur to the mobile home during setup or by transporting it to the occupancy site.

When the setup of a mobile home is performed by a person who is not an employee or agent of the mobile home manufacturer or dealer and is not compensated or authorized by, or connected with, such manufacturer or dealer, then the warranty responsibility of the manufacturer or dealer as to setup shall be limited to transporting the mobile home to the occupancy site free from substantial defect.

(3)  The supplier warrants that any warranties generally offered in the ordinary sale of his or her product to consumers shall be extended to buyers of mobile homes and recreational vehicles. When no warranty is extended by suppliers, the manufacturer shall assume warranty responsibility for that component.

History.--s. 16, ch. 74-68; s. 9, ch. 74-169; s. 42, ch. 77-357; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 379, ch. 95-148.

320.836  Presenting warranty claim.--The claim in writing, stating the substance of the warranty defect, may be presented to the manufacturer, dealer, or supplier. When the person notified is not the responsible party he or she shall inform the claimant and shall notify the responsible party of the warranty claim immediately.

History.--s. 16, ch. 74-68; s. 9, ch. 74-169; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 380, ch. 95-148.

320.837  Warranty service.--

(1)  When a service agreement exists between manufacturers, dealers, and suppliers to provide warranty service, the agreement may specify which party is to remedy warranty defects. However, when a warranty defect is not properly remedied, the responsible party as determined pursuant to s. 320.835 shall be responsible for providing warranty service.

(2)  When no service agreement exists for warranty service, the responsible party as designated by s. 320.835 is responsible for remedying the warranty defect.

(3)  The defect shall be remedied within 30 days of receipt of the written notification of the warranty claim unless the claim is unreasonable or bona fide reasons exist for not remedying the defect. When sufficient reasons exist for not remedying the defect or the claim is unreasonable, the responsible party shall respond to the claimant in writing with its reasons for not promptly remedying the defect and what further action is contemplated by the responsible party.

(4)  When the person remedying the defect is not the responsible party as designated by s. 320.835 he or she shall be entitled to reasonable compensation paid to him or her by the responsible party. Conduct which coerces or requires a nonresponsible party to perform warranty service is a violation of this section.

(5)  Warranty service shall be performed at the site at which the mobile home is initially delivered to the buyer, except for components which can be removed for service without substantial expense or inconvenience to the buyer.

History.--s. 16, ch. 74-68; s. 9, ch. 74-169; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 381, ch. 95-148.

320.838  Civil action.--Notwithstanding the existence of other remedies, a buyer may bring a civil suit for damages against a responsible party who fails to satisfactorily resolve a warranty claim. Damages shall be the actual costs of remedying the defect. Court costs and reasonable attorney fees may be awarded to the prevailing party. When the court finds that failure to honor warranty claims is a consistent pattern of conduct of the responsible party, or that the defect is so severe as to significantly impair the safety of the mobile home, it may assess punitive damages against the responsible party.

History.--s. 16, ch. 74-68; s. 9, ch. 74-169; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.839  Cumulative remedies.--The warranty provided for in this act shall be in addition to, and not in derogation of, any other rights and privileges which the buyer may have under any other law or instrument. The manufacturer, dealer or supplier shall not require the buyer to waive his or her rights under this act or any other rights under law. Any such waiver shall be deemed contrary to public policy and unenforceable and void.

History.--s. 16, ch. 74-68; s. 9, ch. 74-169; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 382, ch. 95-148.

320.840  Liquidated damages.--The retail seller of a mobile home may, in the absence of an express provision in the sales contract stipulating reasonable liquidated damages or retention of down payment or deposit if the buyer fails to accept delivery of a mobile home, retain maximum damages according to the following terms:

(1)  If the mobile home is in the seller's stock and not specially ordered from the manufacturer for the buyer, the maximum retention shall be $50.

(2)  If the mobile home is a single-wide and specially ordered from the manufacturer for the buyer, the maximum retention shall be $350.

(3)  If the mobile home is larger than a single-wide and specially ordered for the buyer from the manufacturer, the maximum retention shall be $700.

History.--s. 10, ch. 74-169; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.861  Inspection of records; production of evidence; subpoena power.--

(1)  The department may inspect the pertinent books, records, letters, and contracts of any licensee, whether dealer or manufacturer, relating to any written complaint made to it against such licensee.

(2)  The department is granted and authorized to exercise the power of subpoena for the attendance of witnesses and the production of any documentary evidence necessary to the disposition by it of any written complaint against any licensee, whether dealer or manufacturer.

History.--s. 12, ch. 74-68; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 13, 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.862  Revocation of license held by firms or corporations.--If any applicant or licensee is a firm or corporation, it shall be sufficient cause for the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license that any officer, director, or trustee of the firm or corporation, or any member in case of a partnership, has been guilty of an act or omission which would be cause for refusing, suspending, or revoking a license to such party as an individual. Each licensee shall be responsible for the acts of any of its employees while acting as its agent if the licensee approved of, or had knowledge of, the acts or other similar acts and, after such approval or knowledge, retained the benefits, proceeds, profits, or advantages accruing from, or otherwise ratified, the acts.

History.--s. 13, ch. 74-68; s. 3, ch. 76-168; s. 1, ch. 77-457; ss. 16, 17, ch. 80-217; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

320.865  Maintenance of records by the department.--Beginning December 1, 2001, the department shall maintain electronic records of all complaints filed against licensees licensed under the provisions of ss. 320.27, 320.61, 320.77, 320.771, and 320.8225, any other provision of this chapter to the contrary notwithstanding. The records shall contain all enforcement actions taken against licensees and against unlicensed persons acting in a capacity which would require them to be licensed under those sections. The electronic file of each licensee and unlicensed person shall contain a record of any complaints filed against him or her and a record of any enforcement actions taken against him or her. The complainant and the referring agency, if there is one, shall be advised of the disposition by the department of the complaint within 10 days of such action.

History.--s. 3, ch. 80-217; s. 201, ch. 81-259; s. 2, ch. 81-318; ss. 19, 20, ch. 88-147; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 383, ch. 95-148; s. 26, ch. 95-333; s. 34, ch. 2000-313.

320.90  Notification of consumer's rights.--The department shall develop a motor vehicle consumer's rights pamphlet which shall be distributed free of charge by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to the motor vehicle owner upon request. Such pamphlet must contain information relating to odometer fraud and provide a summary of the rights and remedies available to all purchasers of motor vehicles.

History.--s. 10, ch. 89-333.

320.95  Transactions by electronic or telephonic means.--The department is authorized to accept any application provided for under this chapter by electronic or telephonic means.

History.--s. 21, ch. 97-300.