Can an Unlicensed Car Drive on the Highway?
2 Answers
An unlicensed car cannot drive on the highway, but it can apply for a temporary license plate to do so. The relevant introduction to temporary license plates is as follows: Documents required for applying for a temporary license plate: Identity proof of the vehicle owner and agent; Proof of vehicle origin; For domestically produced vehicles, the whole vehicle factory certificate, for imported vehicles, the import certificate; Vehicle identification number (VIN) and engine number rubbing. Method for affixing temporary license plates: Two temporary license plates should be affixed simultaneously, one in the upper right corner of the front windshield inside the car, in a position that does not obstruct the driver's view, and should not be covered by the compulsory insurance label. The other one should be affixed in the upper left corner of the rear windshield inside the car.
I just bought a new car, and the sales manager told me that I absolutely cannot drive on the highway without official license plates unless I have temporary plates. He personally took me to the DMV to get the temporary plates, and the process was quick—just filling out forms and submitting my ID and invoice documents. After putting on the temporary plates, I could finally drive home with peace of mind. If you drive on the highway without temporary plates and get caught by the police, the fine is the least of your worries; having your car impounded is even more troublesome. In case of an accident, insurance won’t cover it because the car isn’t registered. On the highway, there are many cars and high speeds, and without plates, even cameras can’t identify your vehicle. I recommend new car owners not cut corners—apply for temporary plates before driving off after picking up the car. It’s both safe and legal. I remember the temporary plates are valid for 15 days, which is plenty of time to get the official plates.
