Question 1

Is BUF17 available in Florida?

Accepted Answer

No, the vanity plate "BUF17" is currently taken in Florida. You can add it to your PlateHog watchlist to get notified if it becomes available. Plates sometimes open up when owners let registrations lapse or transfer to a new vehicle.

Question 2

How much does a vanity plate cost in Florida?

Accepted Answer

A personalized plate in Florida costs $15 initially plus $28 per year for renewal. Added to your standard annual registration fee.

Question 3

Can I check vanity plate availability in Florida online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PlateHog connects directly to the Florida DMV system and returns real-time availability results in under 2 seconds. You can also check on the official state portal at FL DMV Plate Check.

Question 4

How long does it take to get a vanity plate in Florida?

Accepted Answer

After your plate text is approved, expect 2-4 weeks for production and delivery. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

Question 5

What characters are allowed on Florida vanity plates?

Accepted Answer

Florida vanity plates allow 2 to 7 characters using letters and numbers. You may include one space or one hyphen. At least one letter is required.

Question 6

How do I order a vanity plate in Florida?

Accepted Answer

First, check availability using PlateHog to make sure your desired text is open. Then visit the Florida DMV website to submit your application and pay the $15 fee. Your plate will be mailed to you within 2-4 weeks.

Question 7

Why does Florida have so many specialty plate designs?

Accepted Answer

Florida pioneered the cause-marketing license plate model in the early 1990s and now has over 120 specialty designs — more than any other state. Each design partners with a charity, university, sports team, or environmental group, with $10–$25 of every annual fee flowing back to that organization. The program has raised over $1 billion for Florida causes since launch, which is why the legislature keeps approving new designs.

Question 8

Can I put a hyphen or space in my Florida vanity plate?

Accepted Answer

Florida is one of the few states that allows a single space OR a single hyphen (not both) in a personalized plate, in addition to standard letters and numbers. The character counts toward your 7-character limit. Most applicants skip the space because it makes the plate harder to remember when reading from a distance — but it's available if you want it.

Question 9

How does Florida's Endless Summer plate compare to a standard vanity plate?

Accepted Answer

The Endless Summer specialty plate (with the iconic surfer silhouette) is one of Florida's most popular designs. It costs the same $15 personalization fee plus the $25 annual specialty surcharge — about $53 per year all-in versus $43 for a standard vanity plate. The surcharge funds the Florida Surfing Association's beach conservation programs.

Is BUF17 available in Florida?

Florida Vanity Plate Rules

Frequently Asked Questions