How to Affix Temporary Vehicle License Plates?
3 Answers
Method for affixing temporary vehicle license plates: If there is only one temporary license plate, it should be affixed to the lower left or right corner of the front windshield without obstructing the driver's view. If there are two temporary license plates, one should be affixed to the front windshield, and the other should be placed on the lower left corner of the rear windshield inside the vehicle. If there is no suitable position on the rear windshield, the second temporary license plate should still be carried in the vehicle. The paper motor vehicle license plate that permits temporary road use, also known as a temporary driving license plate, is a provisional vehicle movement certificate issued by the vehicle management department of the public security bureau for newly purchased vehicles before formal registration. The validity period of a temporary license plate generally does not exceed thirty days.
Last time after buying a car, the first thing I did was research how to install temporary license plates, and I specifically asked a traffic police friend. Temporary plates must be affixed in two places: the one on the front windshield should be placed in the lower left or right corner—avoid the center to prevent obstructing the view; the one on the rear windshield must be placed in the lower left corner. I used transparent tape from a stationery store to secure all four corners and gently tugged to ensure it wouldn’t fly off. When applying, remember to clean the glass thoroughly—dust can cause the edges to peel. Once, I saw a neighbor stick the rear plate on the side window, and the next day they got pulled over and fined for it. Also, be sure to note the expiration date—after 30 days, you’ll need to switch to permanent plates.
When I picked up my new car last year, the salesperson just handed me two paper plates and told me to install them myself. The front windshield plate fits most securely in the lower right corner, avoiding the wiper area; for the rear window, I chose the lower left corner - visible yet not obstructing the rearview mirror. Don't cut corners by using double-sided tape or glue, or you'll regret it when dealing with stubborn residue. I took a memo photo of the plate number with my phone, just in case the temporary plate got stolen. The mechanic at my neighborhood garage warned me against folding the plates, saying wrinkled ones might draw police attention. Every time I hit a bumpy road, I'd glance at the rearview mirror, paranoid it might disappear.
