Temporary plates come from your state's DMV or your car dealer, depending on when you need them

Temporary license plates are issued by one of two sources: your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the car dealership where you bought the vehicle. Which source you use depends on whether you're buying a new or used car, and whether your permanent plates haven't arrived yet. Most states issue temporary plates valid for 30 to 90 days, though the exact duration varies by state and by the reason you're getting them.

If you bought a car from a dealer, the dealership typically provides temporary plates as part of the sale. If you're registering a vehicle you already own or need a replacement temporary plate, you'll get them from your DMV. The process is different for each situation, and knowing which route applies to you saves time and confusion.

Key Takeaways

  • Car dealerships issue temporary plates when you buy a new or used vehicle; the DMV issues them when you register an existing vehicle or need a replacement.
  • Temporary plates are usually valid for 30 to 90 days depending on your state, and the exact duration is printed on the plate itself.
  • You must display temporary plates in the rear window or on the back bumper, and they are not valid for out-of-state travel in most cases.
  • If your permanent plates don't arrive before your temporary plates expire, contact your DMV to request an extension or a replacement temporary plate.
  • Driving without valid temporary plates or after they expire can result in a traffic citation and fines.

Getting temporary plates from a car dealership

When you buy a new or used car from a dealership, the dealer provides temporary plates as part of the sale process. The dealer completes the paperwork to register the vehicle with your state's DMV and issues you a temporary registration document and plates. This happens on the day of purchase or within a day or two, depending on the dealer's processing speed.

The temporary plates are usually printed on paper or cardboard and must be displayed in your rear window or attached to your back bumper. The dealer will tell you exactly where to place them and for how long they're valid. Most dealer-issued temporary plates last 30 to 60 days, though some states allow up to 90 days. The expiration date is printed on the plate itself.

You should receive paperwork showing your temporary registration number and the expiration date. Keep this paperwork in your vehicle at all times while using the temporary plates. If you're stopped by police, you'll need to show both the temporary plates and the registration document.

Getting temporary plates from your DMV

If you own a vehicle and need temporary plates — because you just bought it from a private seller, inherited it, or your permanent plates were lost or damaged — you'll get them from your state's DMV. The process varies by state, but most DMVs allow you to request temporary plates in person, by mail, or online.

To request temporary plates from the DMV, you'll typically need to bring or submit your vehicle's title, proof of insurance, a completed registration form, and a valid ID. Some states require you to pay a small fee for temporary plates, usually between $5 and $25. The DMV will issue you a temporary registration document and plates valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on your state's rules.

Many states now allow you to request temporary plates online through their DMV website. You'll upload your documents, pay the fee, and receive a temporary registration number that you can print and display when ready. The physical plates or a more formal temporary registration document will arrive by mail within a few days.

How long temporary plates last and what happens when they expire

The validity period for temporary plates depends on your state and the type of plate. Most states issue temporary plates valid for 30, 60, or 90 days. The exact expiration date is printed on the plate itself, so check it before you leave the dealership or DMV office.

Your permanent license plates are mailed to you separately after registration is complete. In most states, permanent plates arrive within 2 to 4 weeks, though some states take longer. If your permanent plates arrive before your temporary plates expire, you can switch to them when ready. If your temporary plates expire before your permanent plates arrive, you need to contact your DMV for an extension or a replacement temporary plate.

Driving with expired temporary plates is illegal and can result in a traffic citation and fines. If you're approaching the expiration date and your permanent plates haven't arrived, don't wait — contact your DMV right away. Many states allow you to request an extension online or by phone, and some will issue a second temporary plate if needed.

Rules for displaying and using temporary plates

Temporary plates must be displayed in a specific location on your vehicle, and the rules vary slightly by state. Most states require temporary plates to be placed in the rear window of the vehicle, secured so they're clearly visible. Some states allow you to attach them to the back bumper instead. Check your temporary registration document or your state's DMV website for the exact placement rules.

Temporary plates are generally valid only within your state. If you plan to travel out of state, check your state's DMV rules — some states allow temporary plates for interstate travel, but many do not. If you're buying a car in another state or need to travel before your permanent plates arrive, contact your DMV to ask about your options.

You must carry your temporary registration document in your vehicle at all times while using temporary plates. If you're stopped by police, you'll need to show both the temporary plates and the registration paperwork. Without the registration document, you may be cited for not having proof of registration, even if the temporary plates are valid.

What to do if your temporary plates expire before permanent plates arrive

If your permanent plates don't arrive by the expiration date of your temporary plates, contact your DMV as soon as possible. Most states allow you to request an extension of your temporary plates or a replacement temporary plate. Many DMVs handle these requests online or by phone, and some can issue an extension the same day.

When you contact your DMV, have your vehicle identification number (VIN), registration number, and temporary plate information ready. Explain that your permanent plates haven't arrived and ask whether you can extend your temporary plates or receive a replacement. The DMV will tell you how long the extension or replacement is valid for.

If your DMV cannot extend your temporary plates, ask about alternative options. Some states allow you to print a temporary registration document from their website that serves as proof of registration while you wait for permanent plates. Others may issue a second temporary plate with a new expiration date. Do not drive with expired temporary plates — the risk of a citation is not worth the wait.

Temporary plates for vehicles purchased out of state

If you buy a vehicle in another state and need to drive it home, you'll need temporary plates from the state where you purchased it. The dealership will provide temporary plates valid for travel to your home state, though the exact rules depend on both states' regulations. Make sure the temporary plates are valid for out-of-state travel before you leave the dealership lot.

Once you arrive in your home state, you'll need to register the vehicle with your state's DMV within a specific timeframe — usually 10 to 30 days, depending on your state. Contact your state's DMV to learn the registration important date and what documents you'll need. You may be able to use your out-of-state temporary plates during this period, but confirm this with your DMV before driving.

Some states require you to obtain in-state temporary plates before or when ready after arriving home. If that's the case, visit your state's DMV office or explore online as soon as you arrive. Having the correct temporary plates for your state protects you from citations and ensures you're following local traffic laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive on temporary plates outside my state?

Most states do not allow temporary plates for out-of-state travel, but some make exceptions for newly purchased vehicles. Check your temporary registration document or contact your state's DMV to confirm whether your temporary plates are valid outside your state. If they're not, you may need to obtain permanent plates or a special out-of-state temporary registration before traveling.

What happens if I get pulled over with expired temporary plates?

Driving with expired temporary plates is a traffic violation. You can be cited and fined, and the amount varies by state. If your permanent plates haven't arrived, contact your DMV when ready to request an extension or replacement temporary plate. Having proof that you requested an extension may help if you're stopped, but it doesn't may provide you won't be cited.

Do I need to carry my temporary registration document in the vehicle?

Yes. Your temporary registration document is proof that your temporary plates are valid. If you're stopped by police, you'll need to show both the temporary plates and the registration paperwork. Driving without the registration document can result in a citation for failure to provide proof of registration, even if the plates themselves are valid.

How long does it take to get permanent plates after I receive temporary plates?

Permanent plates typically arrive within 2 to 4 weeks of registration, though some states take 6 to 8 weeks. The timeframe depends on your state's processing speed and mail delivery. You can check the status of your permanent plates on your state's DMV website or by calling the DMV. If they don't arrive by your temporary plate expiration date, request an extension from the DMV.

Can I request temporary plates online?

Many states allow you to request temporary plates online through their DMV website. You'll upload your documents, pay any required fee, and receive a temporary registration number to print and display. Some states mail physical temporary plates, while others allow you to print a temporary registration document that serves the same purpose. Check your state's DMV website to see what options are available.