No, you generally cannot legally drive a used car home without plates. In most states, driving an unregistered vehicle on public roads is illegal. The moment you purchase the car, the previous owner's plates typically stay with them, leaving the vehicle without valid registration. Getting caught can result in fines, having the car impounded, and points on your license. The correct and legal way to handle this is to obtain a temporary tag (also called a temp tag or transit permit) from the DMV or sometimes directly from the dealership where you bought the car.
The process for getting a temporary tag varies by state. You'll usually need to provide the signed vehicle title, a bill of sale, proof of insurance, and your driver's license. Some states allow dealers to issue these tags instantly. If you're buying from a private seller, you may need to visit the DMV office beforehand. This tag is valid for a short period, like 30 days, giving you enough time to drive the car home and complete the full registration process.
Another potential, but less common, option is to use the previous owner's plates if they agree to sign a specific form (like a "Notice of Transfer" or "Release of Liability") and you drive the car directly to your home or the DMV. However, this is risky and not universally legal; the responsibility falls on you if the plates are run by law enforcement. The safest bet is always the temporary tag.
| State | Common Temporary Permit Duration | Typical Requirements (from Private Seller) | Notes |
|---|
| California | 1-2 Days (Movement Permit) | Title, Bill of Sale, Insurance, ID | Must specify start/end points on application. |
| Texas | 5 Days (Transit Permit) | Title Application, Insurance, ID | Obtain from county tax assessor-collector. |
| Florida | 30 Days (Temporary Tag) | Title, Bill of Sale, Insurance, ID | Available at Tax Collector's office. |
| New York | 30 Days (In-Transit Permit) | Title, Proof of Insurance, ID | Must be displayed in the rear window. |
| Ohio | 30 Days (Temporary Tag) | Title, Proof of Insurance, Bill of Sale | Often issued by a Deputy Registrar office. |
The core takeaway is to plan ahead. Do not assume you can drive the car without proper documentation. Contact your local DMV or consult the dealer to understand the specific requirements in your state before finalizing the purchase.
