Can You Get the License Plate on the Same Day of Registration?
3 Answers
No, you cannot. The time it takes to receive the license plate for a new car registration varies depending on several factors: 1. Different number selection methods result in different waiting times: If you choose a number through the '50-choose-1' method at the DMV, you generally receive the plate faster because these plates are often pre-made. You can usually get the plate within 1-3 days. However, if you opt for a self-selected number, the waiting time is typically 5-10 days. 2. The waiting time varies by region: (1) In first-tier cities, where population density is high and more people are buying cars, the DMV takes longer to process all the paperwork, leading to a longer waiting time for the license plate. (2) In smaller cities (tier 4 or 5), registration is usually faster because there are fewer people registering cars each day, meaning no long queues and more efficient staff. Typically, plate issuance in smaller cities is 2-3 days faster than in larger cities. 3. Different plate collection methods affect the waiting time: Once the plate is made, you can choose to pick it up in person at the DMV or have it mailed. If you pick it up in person, you can install the plate the same day. However, if you choose mail delivery, it will take an additional 3-4 days for shipping.
I just accompanied my friend to complete the new car registration. Getting the license plate on the same day largely depends on the workload at the vehicle management office and the plate selection method. If you choose the on-site '20-choose-1' plate, as long as the vehicle inspection process goes smoothly, all materials are complete, and the plate-making machine is functioning normally, the plate can indeed be made and installed on the spot. However, the '120-choose-1' plates require a bit more time for production. The safest bet is to arrive early in the morning for the first batch; if you arrive after 3 PM, chances are you'll only get a temporary plate. Remember to bring all necessary documents, including the invoice, insurance policy, and tax exemption certificate—missing even one document means you'll have to come back the next day. In some areas, you can also pre-register a custom plate online and have it mailed to your home to save time.
From the internal procedures of the vehicle management office, the main bottlenecks in obtaining license plates on the same day lie in three stages: During the vehicle inspection, if there's a long queue, just waiting to get the chassis number imprinted can take an hour or so. The waiting time during the number selection phase varies greatly depending on the method—choosing from 20 options is immediate, while selecting from 50 options usually means getting the plates only after lunch. Lastly, the plate-making machines have a surprisingly high failure rate; in our county last month, there were three instances of shutdowns due to film jams. That's why some people queue up as early as six in the morning, just to play it safe. I've seen cases where someone arrived at noon only to encounter a system upgrade, leaving them unable to use even a temporary plate and having to call a tow truck.
