You can obtain a temporary vehicle registration in Illinois, officially called a Temporary Registration Permit (TRP), by applying in person at a Secretary of State (SOS) facility. This permit is designed for specific situations, primarily for driving a recently purchased unregistered vehicle directly to an SOS facility for titling and standard registration or for moving it to your home. The core requirement is proving you have insurance and providing documentation for the vehicle.
To get a TRP, you'll need to visit a full-service SOS facility (not all locations offer this service) and bring the following:
- Proof of Insurance: A valid insurance card for the vehicle.
- Proof of Ownership: The vehicle's title properly assigned to you, or a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) for a new vehicle.
- Identification: Your valid driver's license or state ID.
- Payment: The TRP fee, which is typically $25 for a 3-day permit or $50 for a 7-day permit (as of late 2023). Payment is usually required in cash.
The process is straightforward but has strict limitations. The TRP is not a substitute for permanent registration and is only valid for the specific dates and route indicated. It cannot be used for general daily driving.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|
| Official Name | Temporary Registration Permit (TRP) |
| Where to Apply | In-person at a full-service Illinois Secretary of State facility |
| Primary Use Case | Driving an unregistered vehicle to an SOS facility for titling/registration or to your home |
| Standard Fee (3-day) | $25 |
| Extended Fee (7-day) | $50 |
| Payment Method | Typically cash only at many facilities |
| Mandatory Document | Proof of valid vehicle insurance |
| Key Ownership Document | Assigned title or Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) |
| Permit Validity | Strictly for the dates and route specified on the permit |
| Online Application | Generally not available for TRPs |
| Alternative for Non-IL Purchases | 30-day temporary plates may be issued by the dealer |
