can you get plates for a new car online

[Millie]

Yes, you can often get license plates for a new car online, but the process isn't always a single, direct online transaction. The most common scenario is that the dealership handles the entire titling and registration process for you, including ordering the plates, as part of the purchase. They submit the paperwork to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. You'll typically receive the plates by mail a few weeks later.

If you're handling registration yourself, many states offer online services through their official DMV websites. However, this usually requires you to have already submitted the necessary paperwork, such as the vehicle's title application, proof of insurance, and proof of paid sales tax. The online system is often for completing the final steps and payment after the initial paperwork is processed.

Key Factors That Determine the Process:

• Dealership vs. Private Sale: Purchasing from a dealership simplifies the process significantly. For a private sale, you will almost certainly need to visit a DMV office in person to handle the title transfer and initial registration.
• Your State's Regulations: DMV procedures, required documents, and online capabilities vary dramatically from state to state. Some states have fully modernized systems, while others require in-person visits for new registrations.

Steps to Take:

1. Confirm with the Dealer: When buying new, always ask the finance manager to explicitly confirm how and when you will receive your permanent license plates.
2. Check Your State's DMV Website: If you're self-registering, visit your state's official DMV website. Look for the "New Vehicle Registration" section to see what online services are available.
3. Temporary Tags: Remember, you'll drive away from the dealership with a temporary paper tag (temp tag) affixed to the window. This gives you a legal window, usually 30-90 days, to receive your permanent plates.

State	Online New Registration Available?	Typical Processing Time for Plates (After Dealer Submission)	Notes
California	Limited (primarily for renewal)	2-4 weeks	Most new registrations handled by dealers via electronic system.
Texas	Yes, for eligible transactions	3-6 weeks	Requires all paperwork to be submitted by the dealer first.
Florida	Yes, through MyDMV portal	2-3 weeks	Dealer typically submits info electronically; owner completes online.
New York	Limited, often requires in-person	4-8 weeks	Especially for metropolitan areas like NYC.
Arizona	Yes, via ServiceArizona.com	10-15 business days	Known for having one of the more efficient online systems.

[Mockingjay]

Most of the time, the dealer takes care of it. When you buy a new car, the paperwork you sign includes them handling the registration. They give you a temp tag, and your real plates show up in the mail a few weeks later. You should double-check this is part of the deal, but it's standard practice. If you're buying from a private seller, that's a different story—you'll likely have to go to the DMV.