Raffling a Car in Florida: Legal, But Strict Rules Apply

Yes, car raffles are legal in Florida under Chapter 849, Florida Statutes — but only for qualified nonprofits and with rigorous compliance.

Eligible Organizations: 501(c)(3) charities, religious groups, veterans' orgs, fire departments, PTAs, etc. For-profit entities cannot raffle.
Licensing: Annual Raffle License from Florida Dept of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS) — $100–$500 based on prize value. Churches/religious orgs exempt from license but must register.
Registration: File Form DR-1 30+ days before raffle: org info, date/location, ticket price, # tickets, prize value (FMV), distribution of proceeds.
Ticket Rules: Consecutively numbered; org name, address, date, prize description, license # on each. No sales to under 18.
Proceeds: Must benefit charitable purpose. Admin costs capped (disclosed at registration).
Drawing: Public, at registered date/location. Winner announced immediately.
Prize Delivery: Within 60 days; title transfer for vehicle.
Reporting: Financial statement (Form DR-2) to FDACS within 90 days post-raffle: gross receipts, expenses, net proceeds, winner info.
Records: Retain 3 years: ticket stubs, sales logs, bank records, winner docs.