Florida auto repair licensing

Set your location: Set Cancel. My Location: Loading Font Size:. By Topic. Program Resources Estimate and Invoice Requirements [ Laws and Regulations Florida Statutes Sections: Select a question to expand the answer. How is repair work authorized? What should I do with the signed paper? How long do I have to keep records of my business?

One year. When does the customer get the invoice? What must be on the invoice? The invoice may be provided on the same form as the written repair estimate. New shops must comply with licensing requirements before they advertise or open for business. The annual license period runs from October 1st thru September 30th of the following year. We randomly inspect shops annually.

Licenses expire annually on September 30th. Sights and information. Agency Pic. Address: Email: Tel: Fax: Hours:. Accessibility Options. Text Size.

The state of Florida takes no responsibility for a link's operation or content. The links that are shown are not an exclusive listing of organizations available within the state. Skip to Main Content. Close alert. Set your location: Set Cancel. My Location: Loading Font Size:. By Topic. Motor Vehicle Repair. Registered shops must: Include their registration number in any advertisements, announcements or listings relating to motor vehicle repair in any newspaper, magazine or directory.

Post in a conspicuous location in the customer service area their registration certificate and a sign advising consumers of their rights under the Motor Vehicle Repair Act. The sign must also include FDACS's toll-free telephone number for assistance and information and a statement advising consumers that they are entitled to the return or inspection of replaced parts, if requested at the time the work order is placed.

Before You Need Repairs Read your owners manual. Become familiar with your vehicle and follow the manufacturer's suggested service schedule. Start shopping for a repair shop before you need one. You can make a better decision when you are not rushed or in a panic. Don't just drop off your vehicle at the nearest shop and hope for the best.

Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. Even in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation is still valuable. Find out if a repair shop is properly registered with FDACS and if any complaints have been filed against it.

If there are complaints on file, be sure to find out how they were resolved. What to Look for in a Repair Facility Look for the following signs of quality: Signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, AAA Approved Auto Repair status, customer service awards, etc. A neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own. Also check for modern equipment in the service bays.

Courteous, helpful staff. The service writer should be able to answer all of your questions. Evidence of qualified technicians, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and Automotive Service Excellence certifications.

Start with Small Repairs Once you choose a repair shop, start off with a minor job. Feel free to ask for the names of some customers. Call them. All policies labor rates, diagnostic fees, guarantees, methods of payment, etc. Ask if the shop customarily handles your type of vehicle. Some auto repair facilities specialize in repair work for certain types of vehicles. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend specific repair procedures and equipment for the repair of their vehicles.