What You Can and Cannot Do Online for Temporary Plates
You cannot get a temporary license plate entirely online in most states. What you can do online is start the paperwork, pay fees, and in some cases receive a temporary plate number to print or display while you wait for the physical plate to arrive. The exact process depends on your state's DMV system and whether you are buying a new vehicle, transferring registration, or replacing a lost plate.
The key difference: some states issue a temporary plate number you can use when ready (often valid for 30 to 90 days), while others require you to visit a DMV office or authorized dealer to receive the physical temporary plate in hand. A few states let you print a temporary plate at home, but this is less common and usually only for specific situations like new vehicle purchases from a dealership.
Before you start, know that temporary plates are not the same as permanent registration. They are a bridge while your permanent plate is being made or while your registration paperwork processes. Once your permanent plate arrives, you must install it and update your registration records.
Key Takeaways
- Most states let you request a temporary plate online, but you will still need to pick up the physical plate at a DMV office, an authorized dealer, or a service center.
- Some states issue a temporary plate number online that you can display when ready, while others require an in-person visit before the plate is valid.
- Temporary plates are usually valid for 30 to 90 days and are meant to cover the time while your permanent plate is being manufactured.
- You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), proof of purchase or ownership, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to request a temporary plate.
- If your state's DMV website does not offer online temporary plate requests, contact your local DMV office or visit an authorized dealer to find out what options are available.
How to Request a Temporary Plate Through Your State's DMV Website
Start by visiting your state's official DMV website. Look for a section labeled "temporary registration," "temporary plate," "temporary tag," or "new vehicle registration." The exact wording varies by state. Most DMV sites have a search function — type "temporary plate" and it will direct you to the right page.
On that page, you will typically see a form asking for your VIN, your driver's license number, proof of insurance information, and details about the vehicle (make, model, year). Fill in each field carefully. Errors in the VIN or your personal information can delay or reject your request. Have your insurance card and vehicle documents in front of you before you start.
After you submit the form, you will be asked to pay a fee. This fee varies by state — it might be $5 to $25 — and covers the cost of issuing the temporary plate. Pay by credit card or debit card. You will receive a confirmation number and, in many states, a temporary plate number or a document to print.
Save or print your confirmation. You will need it when you pick up the physical plate or if you need to prove you have requested one.
What Happens After You Submit Your Online Request
After you submit your request, the DMV will process it, usually within one to three business days. During this time, you should not drive the vehicle on public roads unless your state has issued you a temporary plate number that is valid when ready. Check your confirmation email or the DMV website to see whether you can use the vehicle right away or whether you must wait to pick up the plate.
If your state issues a temporary plate number online, you will see it in your confirmation or in a separate document. Write this number on a piece of paper and tape it to your rear window, or print the temporary plate document the DMV provides. This number is your proof of registration until the physical plate arrives.
If your state requires you to pick up the physical plate in person, the DMV will notify you when it is ready. This usually takes three to seven business days. You will receive an email or letter with instructions on where and when to pick it up. Some states let you pick up at any DMV office; others require you to pick up at the office where you submitted your request.
Where to Pick Up Your Physical Temporary Plate
If you ordered online but still need to pick up the plate in person, you have a few options depending on your state. Most commonly, you can pick up at your local DMV office during business hours. Bring your confirmation number, your driver's license, and proof of insurance. The staff will hand you the physical plate, usually a white or yellow temporary tag with a number and expiration date printed on it.
Some states allow you to pick up at an authorized third-party service center, such as a vehicle registration office or a participating auto dealership. These centers often have longer hours than the DMV and shorter wait times. Check your state's DMV website to find authorized pickup locations near you.
If you bought the vehicle from a dealership, ask whether they can issue the temporary plate for you. Many dealerships are authorized to do this and can hand you the plate on the spot, saving you a trip to the DMV. This is especially common in states where dealerships handle new vehicle registration.
Documents You Need Before You Start
Gather these documents before you go to the DMV website or office. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is on your vehicle title, bill of sale, or the window sticker if it is a new car. You will also need proof of insurance — your insurance card or a screenshot of your policy from your insurer's website. Most states require you to show proof of insurance before they will issue any registration, including a temporary one.
Have your valid driver's license or state ID ready, along with proof of ownership. Proof of ownership can be a bill of sale, a title document, a purchase agreement, or a dealer invoice. If you are transferring registration from an old vehicle, bring the old registration card as well.
If someone else is picking up the plate on your behalf, bring a signed letter authorizing them to do so, along with a copy of your ID. Some states require this; others do not, but it is safer to have it.
What to Do If Your State Does Not Offer Online Temporary Plates
Not every state offers online temporary plate requests. If your state's DMV website does not have this option, you have two alternatives. First, call your local DMV office and ask whether they can issue a temporary plate over the phone or whether you must visit in person. Some offices will reserve a temporary plate for you if you call ahead, which can speed up your visit.
Second, if you bought the vehicle from a dealership, ask the dealership to handle the temporary plate for you. Dealerships are often authorized to issue temporary plates and can do so when ready. This is usually faster than going to the DMV yourself and is included as part of the purchase process.
If neither option works, you will need to visit a DMV office in person. Bring all the documents listed above. Arrive early or check whether your DMV offers online appointment scheduling to avoid a long wait.
How Long Temporary Plates Last and What Happens When They Expire
Temporary plates are valid for a set period, usually 30 to 90 days depending on your state. The expiration date is printed on the plate itself. You must not drive the vehicle after this date unless your permanent plate has arrived and is installed.
Your permanent plate is being manufactured during this time. It usually arrives by mail within four to eight weeks. When it arrives, remove the temporary plate and install the permanent one according to your state's requirements (usually bolted to the front and rear of the vehicle). Then update your vehicle registration records if your state requires it.
If your permanent plate has not arrived by the time your temporary plate expires, contact the DMV when ready. You may be able to request an extension or a second temporary plate. Do not drive without a valid plate or registration, as this can result in a traffic citation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print a temporary plate at home?
In a few states, yes — usually only if you are buying a new vehicle from a dealership. The dealership or DMV will provide a printable temporary plate document that you can print at home and display in your window. However, most states require a physical plate issued by the DMV or a dealership. Check your state's DMV website to see whether printing is an option for your situation.
What if I lose my temporary plate before my permanent one arrives?
Contact your DMV office right away. You will likely need to pay a small fee to request a replacement temporary plate. Bring your confirmation number and ID. Do not drive without a plate, as you can be cited for it.
Can I use a temporary plate from another state?
No. Temporary plates are issued by the state where you are registering the vehicle and are only valid in that state. If you move to a different state, you must register your vehicle there and obtain a new temporary plate if needed.
Do I need a temporary plate if I am just renewing my registration?
Usually not. If you already have a permanent plate and are renewing your registration, you can continue using your existing plate. You only need a temporary plate when you buy a new vehicle, transfer registration, or replace a lost or damaged plate.
How much does a temporary plate cost?
The cost varies by state, typically ranging from $5 to $25. Some states include the temporary plate fee in the overall registration cost, while others charge it separately. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.