Can I go to the DMV for license plate registration without an appointment?
2 Answers
No. Because the DMV has a daily quota limit for license plate registration, appointments are now required in advance. Below are the specific details about motor vehicle license plate registration: Temporary license plates: Newly purchased motor vehicles must display temporary license plates to legally drive on the road. However, temporary plates for new vehicles cannot be used for more than 30 days. Owners should promptly apply for official license plates from the vehicle management authority. Failure to do so may result in vehicle impoundment and a 12-point penalty. Introduction: Automobile license plates are standardized in format and design as stipulated by national vehicle management regulations. They are hard-coded number plates issued by the vehicle management authority after reviewing, inspecting, and registering vehicles that have applied for license plates, bearing unique registration codes.
Last time I bought a car and went directly to the DMV for registration without an appointment, and I was allowed in, but I really had to be prepared to queue. It was a weekday, and it still took over two hours before it was my turn. The security guard at the entrance said walk-ins were allowed, but there would be more people. Make sure to bring your ID card, car purchase contract, and insurance policy—missing any one of these would mean waiting for nothing. Some cities promote appointment systems, such as booking through official public accounts, which allows for priority processing; those without appointments have to patiently wait for an available window. I suggest first-time visitors check the local DMV policy online beforehand—some places are more crowded during peak periods like weekends or after holidays, and you might even encounter temporary adjustments to the process. It’s best to go early, arriving before the doors open to secure a spot and avoid wasting the whole day. Additionally, smaller DMVs are more flexible with walk-ins, while larger city branches may be stricter. In short, make an appointment if possible—it saves time and hassle.
