How Long Can a Temporary License Plate for a New Car in 2021 Be Used?
2 Answers
Temporary license plates can be applied for up to 3 times. Therefore, theoretically, a temporary license plate for urban areas can be used for a maximum of 45 days, while a temporary license plate for inter-provincial travel can be used for up to 90 days. However, it is important to note that during the actual processing of the temporary license plate, delays may occur in the acceptance or mailing of the temporary plate, so the actual usage time may be shorter than the theoretical period. Below are some important considerations for license plate registration: Vehicle Certificate is required for registration: When registering the vehicle at the DMV, the vehicle's certificate must be submitted to the DMV staff for archiving. Purchase invoice is required for registration: Whether you buy a car from a 4S store or a car dealership, you will receive a purchase invoice after the purchase. This invoice must be kept safe, as without it, the vehicle cannot be registered. During the registration process, the purchase invoice must be presented to the DMV staff, and this invoice will also be archived.
Back in 2021 when I first picked up my new car, the temporary license plate was only valid for about 15 days. The DMV staff said this timeframe was meant to encourage us to get the official plates as soon as possible. I remember being so excited back then, driving around everywhere, but I had to complete all registration procedures within the deadline, including purchasing insurance and getting the car inspected. If you delay too long without getting official plates, driving with an expired temporary plate could easily lead to fines if checked, and it might also affect driving safety. Rules may vary by region—some areas issue 30-day temporary plates—but the principle is short-term transition. Car owners must time it right to avoid major losses for minor gains. I rushed through the process, worried that any issues might disrupt my subsequent driving plans. Right after the temporary plate expired, I immediately switched to the official one, which gave me much greater peace of mind.
