What Temporary Tags Are and Why You Need Them
Temporary tags are short-term vehicle registration documents that let you drive a car legally while you wait for permanent plates to arrive in the mail. They are issued by your state's DMV or by a licensed dealer when you buy or register a vehicle. Temporary tags typically last 30 to 90 days, depending on your state, and display a registration number on paper or plastic that you mount on your rear window or bumper.
You need temporary tags because permanent metal plates take time to manufacture and mail. Without them, you would not be able to legally operate the vehicle on public roads. Most people get temporary tags the same day they complete their registration at the DMV or at the dealership where they bought the car.
Key Takeaways
- Temporary tags are issued when ready when you register a vehicle and remain valid for 30 to 90 days depending on your state.
- You can obtain temporary tags from your state DMV office or from a licensed car dealer if you purchased the vehicle there.
- Temporary tags must be displayed on your rear window or bumper in a visible location, and driving without them after your registration expires is illegal.
- If your permanent plates do not arrive before your temporary tags expire, contact your DMV to request an extension or replacement tags.
- Some states issue temporary tags as paper documents, while others use plastic tags; check your state's specific format requirements.
Where to Get Temporary Tags
You can obtain temporary tags in two main ways: directly from your state DMV office or from a licensed car dealership. If you are registering a vehicle you purchased from a dealer, the dealership often handles the temporary tag issuance as part of the sale process. This is the fastest route because you walk out with tags the same day.
If you are registering a vehicle you own privately—such as one you bought from another person or one you already own but are registering for the first time—you will go to your local DMV office. Bring your proof of ownership, proof of insurance, identification, and any other documents your state requires. The DMV will issue temporary tags before you leave the office.
Some states also allow you to request temporary tags online or by mail if you have already submitted your registration documents, though you will still need to pick them up in person or have them mailed to you. Check your state DMV website for the specific process in your area.
How Long Temporary Tags Last
Temporary tag validity periods vary by state. Most states issue temporary tags that last 30, 60, or 90 days from the date of issue. A few states offer longer periods for specific situations, such as when a vehicle is being transported across state lines. Your temporary tag document will clearly show the expiration date.
The expiration date is the last day you can legally drive the vehicle using that temporary tag. After that date, you must have either your permanent plates or a renewed temporary tag. Driving after expiration—even for one day—can result in a traffic citation and fines.
Displaying Your Temporary Tags Correctly
Temporary tags must be displayed in a location where law enforcement can see them clearly. Most states require you to mount the tag on your rear window, usually in the lower right or lower left corner. Some states allow you to attach the tag to your rear bumper instead. Check your state's specific rules, as placement requirements differ.
Keep the tag clean and readable. If it becomes damaged, faded, or illegible, contact your DMV for a replacement. Do not alter, deface, or cover any part of the tag. If you are stopped by law enforcement and your temporary tag is not visible or is unreadable, you can be cited for improper display even if the tag itself is still valid.
If you have a multi-state temporary tag or a temporary tag issued for transport purposes, follow the specific display instructions that came with it, as these may differ from standard in-state temporary tag requirements.
What Happens When Temporary Tags Expire
Your permanent plates should arrive in the mail before your temporary tags expire. Once they do, remove the temporary tag and install your permanent plates according to your state's requirements—usually one plate on the front and one on the rear, or one on the rear only depending on your state.
If your permanent plates have not arrived by the expiration date of your temporary tags, contact your DMV when ready. Do not drive the vehicle after the temporary tag expires. Your DMV can issue a replacement temporary tag, extend your current tag, or provide information about why your permanent plates are delayed. Processing times for permanent plates vary by state but typically range from two to eight weeks.
Keep your temporary tag documentation until you have installed your permanent plates and confirmed they are registered to your vehicle. Some states require you to return expired temporary tags to the DMV, while others do not. Your state's DMV website will specify what to do with expired tags.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume your temporary tag is still valid without checking the expiration date. Many people miss the important date because they do not look at the date printed on the tag. Mark the expiration date on your calendar or phone as a reminder.
Do not drive without a visible temporary tag or permanent plates. This is a violation in every state and can result in a traffic stop, citation, and fines. If your tag is damaged or unreadable, get a replacement before driving.
Do not ignore a notice from your DMV about delayed permanent plates. If you receive a letter saying your plates are being held up, contact the DMV to find out why and what you need to do. You may need to provide additional documentation or correct an error in your registration.
Do not transfer a temporary tag from one vehicle to another. Each temporary tag is issued for a specific vehicle and registration. Using it on a different vehicle is illegal.
Temporary Tags for Different Situations
If you are buying a vehicle from a dealer, the dealer will issue temporary tags as part of the sale. These tags cover the period while your permanent registration is being processed. You do not need to do anything extra—the dealer handles it.
If you are registering a vehicle you already own but have never registered in your current state, you will receive temporary tags from the DMV. This applies if you moved to a new state or are registering a vehicle for the first time.
If you are transporting a vehicle across state lines—for example, if you bought it out of state—some states issue special temporary tags for transport only. These tags may have different rules about where you can drive and how long they last. Check your state's requirements before transporting a vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive out of state with temporary tags?
Most temporary tags are valid only within your state. Driving out of state with temporary tags is illegal in most places. If you need to transport a vehicle across state lines, ask your DMV about special transport tags or temporary registration documents that allow interstate travel. These have different rules and expiration dates than standard temporary tags.
What if I lose my temporary tag?
Contact your DMV when ready and request a replacement. Bring your registration documents and identification. The DMV will issue a new temporary tag, usually the same day. Do not drive without a visible tag, as you can be cited for improper registration display.
Can I renew my temporary tag if my permanent plates are delayed?
Yes. If your permanent plates have not arrived by the expiration date of your temporary tag, contact your DMV to request an extension or replacement temporary tag. You will need to provide your registration number and explain that your permanent plates are delayed. Most states will issue one or more extensions while your plates are being processed.
Do temporary tags cost money?
Temporary tags are usually included in your vehicle registration fee, so there is no separate charge. If you need a replacement temporary tag due to loss or damage, your DMV may charge a small fee, typically a few dollars. Check your state's DMV website for the exact cost.
What if a police officer stops me and says my temporary tag is invalid?
Check the expiration date on your tag. If it has expired, you were driving illegally and the officer can cite you. If the tag has not expired but the officer says it is invalid for another reason—such as improper display or a registration error—ask the officer to explain. You can contact your DMV later to clarify. If you believe the citation is incorrect, you have the right to contest it in traffic court.