How Long Does It Take to Get a Temporary License Plate at a 4S Store?
3 Answers
Temporary license plates can be processed on the same day. On April 10, 2019, the Ministry of Public Security held a press conference to announce 10 new measures for the reform of "delegation, regulation, and service" in public security traffic management. These measures explicitly stated the comprehensive implementation of temporary license plate issuance by automobile 4S stores, making it convenient for customers to purchase vehicles on-site and receive temporary plates immediately. Relevant information about temporary license plates is as follows: 1. Introduction: Temporary license plates are paper motor vehicle license plates that allow temporary road use of motor vehicles, also known as temporary vehicle license plates. They are temporary vehicle operation certificates issued by the public security vehicle management department for newly purchased vehicles before official registration. 2. Classification: The validity period of temporary license plates generally does not exceed thirty days. There are four types: temporary license plates for administrative jurisdictions, temporary license plates for cross-administrative jurisdictions, temporary license plates for testing purposes, and temporary license plates for special motor vehicles.
On the day I bought my new car, I waited nearly two hours at the 4S shop for the temporary license plate, and the staff said it was relatively smooth. They told me that under normal circumstances, with all documents complete—such as a clear copy of the ID card and the car purchase invoice—the plate could be issued within half an hour. However, during holidays or peak hours when it's crowded, it might drag on until the afternoon. They advised newcomers to go to the shop early, avoiding noon and weekends, to prevent unnecessary waiting. After obtaining the temporary plate, you can drive directly on the road, which is much more convenient than going to the vehicle management office. However, the validity period is usually around 30 days, so remember to apply for the formal license plate on time to avoid penalties for exceeding the deadline. While waiting, I also saw the staff handling other documents, and a slow system could affect the speed, so having all documents ready is crucial.
In our 4S dealership, the temporary license plate process is quite straightforward. After customers submit their documents, we input and review them on the computer, and it can be completed in 15 minutes if everything goes smoothly. Documentation is crucial – missing invoices or incomplete ID copies can cause delays. During peak periods like promotional days, customers may have to wait in long queues for one to two hours. We always advise clients to prepare clear copies in advance and arrive early to avoid crowds. Temporary plates are valid for 7-15 days for unrestricted driving within the province, while special temporary plates for out-of-province travel last longer. Multiple factors like system response times or busy seasons may cause delays, so booking an appointment is recommended. Overall, 90% of customers receive their plates on the same day, allowing them to drive off hassle-free. Remember not to overlook small details about temporary plates to avoid issues during traffic checks.
