Can Temporary License Plates Be Used Across Cities?
2 Answers
Whether temporary license plates can be used across cities depends on the type of temporary license plate. In China, temporary license plates are divided into four types: 1. Temporary license plates for administrative jurisdictions (valid for no more than 15 days); 2. Temporary license plates for cross-administrative jurisdictions (valid for no more than 30 days); 3. Temporary license plates for testing purposes; 4. Temporary license plates for special-type motor vehicles. Additional Information: Paper motor vehicle license plates that permit temporary road use are also known as temporary driving license plates. These are temporary vehicle driving certificates issued by the vehicle management department of the public security authorities before new vehicles are officially registered. The validity period of temporary license plates generally does not exceed 30 days. There are four types: temporary license plates for administrative jurisdictions, temporary license plates for cross-administrative jurisdictions, temporary license plates for testing purposes, and temporary license plates for special-type motor vehicles.
As a new car owner who just bought a vehicle, I figured out the cross-city issue when applying for temporary license plates last year. The dealer told me there are two types of temporary plates: one for intra-city use only (limited to local driving), and the other for inter-provincial travel (allowing you to drive to other cities). I opted for the inter-provincial type because I needed to drive my car from Shanghai to my hometown in Hangzhou. If you don’t get the right type and get pulled over by traffic police on the highway, it’ll count as driving without a license plate—resulting in fines, points deducted, or even having your car towed. Temporary plates have a short validity period, usually 30 days, so you must hurry to get permanent plates before they expire, or you’ll face more trouble. Many new drivers overlook this, thinking they can drive freely without consequences, only to end up with hefty fines. It’s best to ask more questions when applying for plates to confirm the correct type—don’t find it annoying. Road safety is no small matter; only by following the rules can you drive with peace of mind.