Can I Drive a Newly Purchased Car Home Without Temporary License Plates?
2 Answers
Purchasing a new car without temporary license plates can be driven home, provided that you have a "vehicle movement permit," which is equivalent to a "temporary license plate." Below are the relevant details: 1. Requirements for Application: Before purchasing a new car, bring the necessary documents to the vehicle management office to apply for temporary license plates. Driving without plates is strictly prohibited. Required documents for temporary license plates: Proof of identity of the vehicle owner; Proof of compulsory traffic accident liability insurance for the vehicle; The vehicle's whole vehicle factory qualification certificate or import certificate for imported vehicles; The registration copy of the vehicle purchase invoice. 2. Relevant Regulations: The vehicle management office should review the submitted proofs and certificates within one day of acceptance. For temporary driving within the administrative jurisdiction, a temporary driving license plate with a validity period of no more than 15 days will be issued; for temporary driving across administrative jurisdictions, a temporary driving license plate with a validity period of no more than 30 days will be issued.
When I just bought my new car last time, I was also eager to drive it away immediately, but my experienced sales friend reminded me that it's absolutely not allowed. Driving without a temporary license plate is considered unlicensed driving. China's Road Traffic Law clearly states that this is illegal. If caught by traffic police, you could be fined between 200 to 2000 yuan, lose all 12 points on your license, and possibly even have your car impounded. A new car fresh from the dealership hasn't been registered yet, and insurance often becomes invalid without a license plate. In case of an accident, you might not be able to cover the damages, leading to even greater losses. I waited half an hour myself for the 4S shop to process the temporary plate before driving. The temporary plate is a blue paper that you stick on your car, valid for 15 to 30 days. I recommend arranging time in advance when buying a car to let the salesperson handle the temporary plate, or simply hire a tow truck to take it home. It might cost a few hundred yuan, but it saves you a lot of trouble. Although a new car is tempting, don't impulsively drive it and cause problems. Safety should always come first.
