How Long Does It Take to Obtain a Temporary License Plate?

[LaneDella]

For newly purchased vehicles, temporary license plates can usually be obtained on the same day as the vehicle pickup. Validity Period of Temporary License Plates: Temporary license plates have a validity period, which should not exceed 30 days at most. For new vehicles, the validity period should not exceed 15 days. Therefore, it is essential to apply for a formal license plate from the vehicle management authority within this period. Driving with an expired temporary license plate may result in the vehicle being impounded and a penalty of 12 demerit points. Regional Restrictions on Temporary License Plates: In addition to time limitations, temporary license plates also have regional restrictions. Local temporary license plates are only valid within the issuing region, and using them outside the designated area may lead to penalties. If you frequently travel long distances or across regions, it is advisable to obtain a cross-regional temporary license plate. Placement Requirements for Temporary License Plates: Temporary license plates usually come in two pieces, functioning similarly to formal license plates. However, their placement differs. One temporary license plate must be placed in the lower left or right corner of the front windshield, while the other must be placed in the lower left corner of the rear windshield. They should not be placed randomly.

[ORose]

Last time I went to apply for temporary license plates, there were so many people that I had to queue for over two hours at the DMV, but the actual processing only took 20 minutes. I recommend checking the required documents in advance: original and photocopy of ID card, vehicle certificate of conformity, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and car purchase invoice. If everything is prepared, it can take as little as half an hour or up to three hours at most. Remember to arrive before 10 a.m. to avoid Monday rush hours. If you ask a 4S shop to handle it for you, it’s more convenient—they collect the materials on the same day and you can get the temporary plates the next day, but it costs a service fee of around 100-200 yuan. Temporary license plates are valid for about 15 days, so remember to apply for formal plates as soon as possible after your new car arrives.

[StMadison]

The processing speed of temporary license plates mainly depends on two factors: whether the materials are complete and the processing channel. If you go directly to the vehicle management office, it usually takes about an hour if all materials are ready, but the queue might take longer. I've seen people who forgot their ID card copies and had to go out to find a copy shop, wasting an extra half hour. Some cities now support online processing through the Traffic Management 12123 APP, where you can upload materials and have them mailed to your home after approval, which takes about two to three days, suitable for owners who are not in a hurry. If you use a dealer to handle it, some can submit materials in the morning and get the plates in the afternoon. The key is to prepare all materials in advance to avoid unnecessary hassle.

[SanIsaac]

As someone who often accompanies friends to pick up their new cars, I find that obtaining temporary license plates on-site can take anywhere from half an hour to two hours. The DMV window processing is quite fast—it mainly depends on how many people are ahead of you in line. Remember to bring four essential documents: the owner's ID card, vehicle invoice, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and vehicle certification. For beginners, I recommend spending 100 yuan to let the 4S dealership handle it—saves time and effort. Temporary plates come in two validity periods: 15-day and 30-day options, with cross-province temporary plates lasting longer. One important reminder: temporary plates must be properly affixed to the front and rear windshields as required, otherwise, you may face fines from traffic police.

[LeDaniella]

The processing time for temporary license plates varies significantly. Recently, I accompanied my neighbor to apply for one. He had downloaded the required documents in advance: original ID card + photocopy, car purchase invoice, vehicle certification, and compulsory traffic insurance certificate. We arrived at the DMV at 8:30 AM and received the plate by 9:10 AM. For first-time car buyers, it's advisable to consult the dealer beforehand, as they often handle temporary plate applications in batches. Submitting the documents before 2:00 PM usually ensures same-day results. Additionally, be aware that some cities limit the number of temporary plate applications—new cars can apply up to three times. Nowadays, some DMVs even offer self-service printing, making the process even faster.