How Long Does It Take to Get License Plates at the DMV?
3 Answers
If all documents and materials are prepared and there are not many people at the DMV requiring no queuing, the license plate registration process can be completed in 1-3 hours. 1. License Plate Collection: It generally takes fifteen working days for the DMV to complete the production of license plates. You can either pick up the plates at the DMV yourself or opt for home delivery via courier. 2. Important Notes: If you receive your official license plates while your temporary plates are still valid, you cannot continue using the temporary plates. Once the official plates are issued, the temporary plates become invalid regardless of their expiration date. Failure to promptly display the official plates may result in a 12-point penalty.
Last time I went to the DMV for license plate registration, the whole process went smoothly, but the duration really depends on preparation. I arrived at 9 a.m. with all the required documents: ID card, car purchase invoice, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and vehicle certificate. With complete paperwork, the vehicle inspection and review took about half an hour, followed by another 20+ minutes waiting in line for payment. The entire process—from start to receiving the license plate and vehicle registration—took less than an hour. However, be aware that during peak times like weekends or holidays when the DMV is packed, it might drag on for two to three hours. I recommend booking an appointment via their app in advance to cut queue time. Also, double-check all documents—missing any would mean extra trips and delays. Based on experience, having all materials ready and going on a weekday morning is the fastest option.
From my experience, the time it takes to get a license plate at the DMV varies from person to person, but the key is to bring all the required materials at once. The general process includes vehicle inspection, document submission, fee payment, and license plate collection, which typically takes 1-2 hours on average. If there are fewer people or you have an appointment, it can be done in as fast as half an hour. However, during peak periods like holidays, it may take over 3 hours. I always make it a habit to check my list in advance: ensure the name on the car purchase invoice is correct, the insurance is valid, and I also recommend preparing mobile payment to save time during fee payment. Don’t rush during the process—the staff’s efficiency is generally stable. Avoid peak hours; weekday mornings are the most time-saving. Remember, the duration largely depends on how efficiently you act.
