How to Apply for a Temporary License Plate?

[LeMackenzie]

In addition to applying for a temporary license plate at the vehicle management office, car owners can also go to any traffic branch or team vehicle management station to apply for a temporary license plate for their vehicle. Of course, you can also leave the task of applying for a temporary license plate to the staff at the 4S store. The following materials are required for applying for a temporary license plate: 1. Original and photocopy of the vehicle qualification certificate (import certificate for imported vehicles). 2. Original and photocopy of the third copy of the compulsory traffic insurance. 3. Original and photocopy of the car owner's identity proof. 4. If applying on behalf of someone else, the original and photocopy of the agent's ID card are required.

[DelCecilia]

I just got a new car and went through the hassle of getting temporary license plates. I prepared a copy of the car purchase invoice and my original ID, then headed straight to the DMV. The queue was long, and I had to wait for ages. On the spot, I filled out an application form and paid about 50 yuan. After the staff reviewed my documents, I received a paper license plate right away and stuck it on my car. The temporary plates are usually valid for 15 to 30 days and can only be used locally—no out-of-province driving. If you're in a hurry, using an app like 12123 is more time-efficient—just upload the required documents and wait for the plates to be delivered by courier. The whole process took me three hours, so I learned my lesson: next time, I’ll apply online in advance instead of procrastinating. Otherwise, driving with expired temporary plates could land you a 200-yuan fine.

[MacKaden]

As a veteran car owner, I emphasize that temporary license plates must be obtained promptly to ensure driving safety—don't cut corners. Driving a new car without them means being pulled over for unlicensed driving, with penalties ranging from fines to point deductions. The process is simple: bring the original car invoice and a copy of your ID to the DMV counter, submit the forms, pay a small fee (just tens of yuan), and receive the plate. Temporary plates have a short validity of up to 15 days, so it's best to proceed immediately with formal registration—using a 4S dealership agent can save you legwork. Remember, driving with temporary plates requires following the rules: no speeding or illegal parking to avoid accident risks.

[Tobias]

Want to save money and hassle? Getting a temporary license plate is worth the small fee to avoid big fines—I always do this. Once you get your new car, take the invoice and ID to the DMV to apply. The cost is low, under 50 yuan, and it takes just ten minutes, saving you from queuing or booking online. Alternatively, delegate the task to the 4S dealership where you bought the car—they often handle it for free, and you can just wait to pick up the plate. Stick the temporary plate securely and don’t let it expire. The validity period is 15 to 30 days, so switch to a permanent plate in time for safe driving and to avoid penalties or delays.

[StRyan]

From a compliance perspective, temporary license plates serve as legal permits for newly purchased or transferred vehicles during the transition period and must be obtained in accordance with the law. The procedures include submitting the original vehicle purchase invoice and identity documents to the vehicle management office, filling out the application form, and undergoing review. Once approved, the temporary plate will be issued with a validity period of 15 days, limited to a specific region such as the province. Expired plates are invalid and may result in legal penalties. It is recommended to ensure all materials are complete and the process runs smoothly to guarantee compliance and avoid risks.

[McAaron]

With a tight work schedule, opt for the efficient method to obtain a temporary license plate. Download the traffic management app in advance, upload photos of the car purchase invoice and ID card scan, then submit the application online. Choose between self-pickup or mail delivery to avoid queuing at the DMV. Pick a less crowded afternoon, bring all required documents, and get the temporary plate quickly—done in just half an hour. Remember, the temporary plate is valid for 15 days; don’t let it expire and delay getting the official plate. Drive with peace of mind by securing the permanent plate on time.