You just bought a car. Maybe you moved to a new state. Perhaps your old tags expired, and you need time for repairs. You need to drive your vehicle, but you do not have the permanent license plates yet. This leads to the very important question: where can i get a temporary tag? The good news is that securing a temporary license plate is a standard process. You have a few main options depending on your purchase method and your state's specific rules. We will walk through the steps, the locations, and the documents you need to get your temporary tag and drive legally today.
Key Locations for Temporary Tags
Getting a temporary tag depends heavily on where you got your vehicle. The person or place that sells you the car often handles this step. If you bought from a private party, the process changes slightly. Look at the key places you can obtain a temporary tag:
Authorized Car Dealerships (Your Easiest Option): This is the most common and simplest route. Most car dealers are authorized by the state motor vehicle department to issue temporary tags right at the time of purchase.
The dealer provides a temporary tag instantly.
This temporary tag lets you drive the car while the dealer completes the permanent registration and title paperwork.
Temporary tags issued by dealers usually last for 30 to 60 days. This gives the state time to mail your new metal plates.
Action: When you sign the final purchase papers, ask the dealer for the temporary tag. Make sure you display it correctly on the vehicle's rear.
The State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Equivalent Office: If you buy a car from a private seller, you must visit your local government office. This office may be called the DMV, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), the Department of Revenue, or the County Clerk's office.
You must go in person or, in some states, apply online through the official state portal.
You apply for a temporary operating permit or an in-transit permit.
This is the place to go if your temporary tag is for a reason other than a new purchase. Reasons include moving an unregistered vehicle or needing time for an inspection.
Action: Find your local office. You should check the state's website first to confirm hours, required documents, and if you need an appointment.
Third-Party Agents or Registered Deputy Registrars: Some states use authorized third-party businesses to handle vehicle registration services. These agents can often issue temporary tags.
These locations can include private tag and title services or even select auto repair shops.
They act as an extension of the state's motor vehicle department.
Fees at these locations might be slightly higher due to a convenience charge.
Action: Search the state DMV website for a list of approved partner agencies in your area.
When Do You Need a Temporary Tag?
You need a temporary tag in several different common situations. Knowing which situation fits your needs helps you find the right type of permit and the correct place to apply.
New Purchase from a Dealer: This is when the dealer issues the tag immediately. It proves you own the car while waiting for the permanent plates.
New Purchase from a Private Seller: You must get the temporary tag yourself from the DMV. You need this permit to drive the car home and complete the full title and registration steps.
Moving to a New State: You need an in-transit or temporary permit. This lets you drive your vehicle into the state. You will drive it until you register it in your new home state.
Need for an Inspection or Emissions Test: If your registration is expired, you cannot legally drive the car to the required inspection or test. A short-term temporary permit lets you drive the car only for this specific purpose.
Transferring an Out-of-State Title: You need time to convert your old state’s title to your new state’s title. A temporary tag allows legal driving during this waiting period.
Necessary Documents for Your Temporary Tag
You must bring the right papers with you. Government offices need proof of your identity, ownership, and insurance before they give you permission to drive. This attention to detail builds trust and shows authority in the process. Prepare these documents before you go where can i get a temporary tag:
Proof of Vehicle Ownership:
The vehicle's Certificate of Title, signed over to you by the seller.
A Bill of Sale or Lease Agreement showing the date of purchase.
A Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (for new vehicles).
Proof of Insurance:
Your new auto insurance card or policy declaration page. It must meet your state's minimum liability requirements.
Personal Identification:
A current, valid Driver's License or State Identification Card.
Application Form and Fees:
A completed application for a temporary license plate or permit. You can often print this form from the state's website.
Payment for the permit fee. Fees are usually small, ranging from a few dollars to about thirty dollars, but they can vary.
Transactional Words for a Quick Start
The goal is to move you from asking "where can i get a temporary tag" to getting the tag. We use transactional words to guide your immediate next steps.
Buy your new vehicle from an authorized dealer.
Contact your state's motor vehicle office for details.
Print the required application form online.
Prepare all ownership and insurance documents now.
Visit a local DMV branch or approved agent.
Pay the necessary temporary permit fee.
Apply for your temporary tag immediately after purchase.
Secure the temporary plate on the back of your car.
Drive legally while you wait for your permanent plates.
Key Features of the Temporary Tag Process
The temporary registration process has key features that keep you legal and safe on the road.
Limited Time: Temporary tags always have an expiration date. This date is usually 30, 45, 60, or 90 days from the issue date. You must complete your permanent registration before this date passes.
Single Use: You can usually only get one temporary tag per vehicle purchase. If you lose it, you must file a police report and contact the DMV. You cannot get a second one easily.
Display Rules: The tag must be visible and properly attached. Most states require the tag to be secured to the rear of the vehicle, not simply placed on the dashboard. Follow the display rules to avoid a ticket.
Cost: Fees are set by the state. You pay the fee when you submit the application.
No Renewal: Temporary tags are a stopgap measure. You cannot renew them. Your only option is to finish the full, permanent registration process.
Final Steps to Get Your Tag
Getting a temporary tag is a simple but vital step in car ownership. Do not put it off. Driving without a valid plate, even for a short time, can lead to fines and trouble with the police.
If you bought your vehicle from a licensed dealership, you are likely all set. The dealer gives you the tag and a copy of the paperwork instantly.
If you bought from a private party, you must act fast. Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles office or one of their authorized partners right away. Remember to bring your proof of purchase, proof of insurance, and identification. Pay the fee, get your temporary tag, and then you can drive your new vehicle legally. Knowing where can i get a temporary tag and following these simple steps will save you time and potential legal problems.
