Does the car need to be driven to apply for a temporary license plate?

[DiKaden]

You do not need to drive the car to apply for a temporary license plate; just bring the required materials for processing. Below is the relevant information for applying for a temporary license plate: 1. Required materials: Identity proof of the vehicle owner; Certificate of compulsory traffic accident liability insurance for motor vehicles; For special vehicles that are unsold or cannot be registered due to axle load, total mass, or dimensions exceeding national standards, the vehicle's factory qualification certificate or import certificate must also be submitted. 2. Processing period: Within 1 day from the date of application acceptance. 3. Processing authority: Vehicle Management Office of the traffic management department under the public security organ at the place of vehicle registration.

[BrielleAnn]

Actually, there's no need to drive the car to the DMV at all! I've helped friends apply for temporary license plates three times, and all you need is to bring the required documents to the counter. Essential materials include the original car purchase invoice, vehicle certification, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and the car owner's ID card. For proxy applications, you'll also need the proxy's ID card and a letter of authorization. Note that on-site temporary plates have regional restrictions, and cross-province temporary plates must be applied for in advance. It's recommended to download the Traffic Management 12123 app for appointment booking to avoid queues, and you can choose to have the plates mailed to your home after processing. Never drive a new car without plates—getting caught will result in an immediate 12-point deduction, so hiring a tow truck is the safest option.

[DeRhett]

Just got my temporary license plate, and my wasted trip tells you: you really don't need to drive the car there! Upload scanned copies of the invoice, certificate of conformity, and insurance policy in advance on the traffic management app. Once approved, you can directly choose mail delivery. The entrance of the DMV is full of scalpers charging double the price. Doing it yourself only costs 10 yuan, but remember to bring the original documents to the counter for verification. Last week, my neighbor drove without a temporary plate and was caught right after leaving the dealership, fined 200 yuan and deducted 9 points—now he's full of regret. Without a license plate, even gas stations won't let you in, so preparing the materials in advance is the most hassle-free.

[VonCooper]

From the perspective of DMV staff: The vehicle does not need to be present to apply for temporary license plates. The core process consists of three steps: First, submit the vehicle certificate, invoice copy, and the original ID card of the owner at the window; after approval, collect the paper temporary plates; finally, affix them to the lower left corner of the front and rear windshields as required. Two key points to note: Blue temporary plates are only valid within the province, while brown-yellow plates with black characters can be used across provinces. The most common issue is incomplete invoice information—ensure the invoice includes the vehicle identification number and engine number. It is advisable to avoid the peak application period on Mondays.