How to buy a used car in Florida after moving
You moved to Florida — you need a car. Budget, Carfax, independent dealers and test drives, step by step.
Start here
In Florida a car is infrastructure, not a toy. First question isn't which model looks cool — it's total cost: price + tax + insurance + registration + first service.
Don't chase the cheapest Facebook Marketplace listing. Cheap often means salvage title, flood damage or an engine on its last legs.
Where to buy
Independent Tampa Bay dealers are often more flexible than big chains: room to negotiate, same-day test drives, less pressure. Duke vetted partners include Honotu in Largo.
Before signing: Carfax or AutoCheck, a mechanic inspection ($100–150) and a title check for salvage / rebuilt. Cheaper than buying someone else's problem.
After the purchase
Transfer title and register with Florida DMV within 30 days. Shop insurance before you buy — new residents see very different quotes.
The DUKE code on DukeToyz partners isn't a universal discount — it's how you say you came from Duke and get treated like a human.