Can Temporary License Plates Still Be Used After the Official Plates Are Issued?
2 Answers
After the official license plates are issued for a vehicle, the temporary license plates can still be used. Below is the specific process for obtaining temporary license plates for a new car: 1. First, you need to pay the vehicle purchase tax, purchase insurance for the new car, and undergo a criminal investigation inspection. 2. Then, non-exempt vehicles must undergo an inspection line, pay fees, fill out forms, take rubbings and photos, and collect the necessary documents for license plate registration. 3. You need to submit the documents at the vehicle management office, sign as the owner, and have the vehicle inspected and confirmed by the police. 4. Finally, select a license plate number, receive a receipt, have the plates sealed and installed, and collect the vehicle registration certificate and license. 5. The temporary movement permit is generally valid for 3 days, while the temporary license plates are usually valid for 30 days. The maximum period from purchasing a new car to officially registering it is generally 3 months. If this period is exceeded, a certain late fee must be paid as per regulations. The timing of registration after purchasing a car is entirely up to the owner.
Last year, I bought a new car and got a temporary license plate, which was valid for 15 days, mainly to allow the new car to be legally driven on the road. After the formal license plate was processed, I replaced it immediately because the temporary plate could no longer be used. This is not only a regulation but also carries risks: if caught by traffic police, you could be fined 200 yuan or even have points deducted. Worse, if an accident occurs, insurance might refuse to cover it. Temporary plates are just transitional tools—once their purpose is served, they become invalid, much like the end of a test drive period. Don’t be lazy or delay; replace it with a formal plate as soon as possible to drive with peace of mind and avoid unnecessary trouble. Also, remember to check that the temporary plate’s expiration date isn’t exceeded, ensuring compliant driving for a hassle-free experience.