How to Deal with a New Car Without Temporary License Plate?
2 Answers
Here are the specific steps for obtaining a temporary license plate for a new car: 1. Apply at the Vehicle Management Office: The owner needs to bring their ID card, car purchase invoice, compulsory insurance policy, and the original and copies of the vehicle's factory certificate. 2. Apply at a 4S store: Temporary license plates can be directly processed at a 4S store. 3. Apply via the Traffic Management 12123 App: The Traffic Management 12123 app can handle many vehicle-related services, including temporary license plate applications. Below is additional information about driving without a license plate within 15 days of purchasing a new car: 1. Driving without a license plate is illegal: According to the relevant provisions of the Road Traffic Safety Law, driving a motor vehicle without a license plate is prohibited. 2. Penalties: If caught driving without a license plate, the traffic management department will impound the vehicle, require the owner to provide the corresponding license plate, and impose a fine and 12 penalty points as stipulated in Article 90.
I remember last time my friend was super excited about buying a new car, but forgot to get a temporary license plate when picking it up and got pulled over by traffic police on the way home. He got points deducted, was fined, and almost had his license revoked—it was one thing after another. From that experience, driving a new car without a temporary plate is absolutely not allowed. Not only is it illegal, but if an accident happens, the insurance won’t cover it, leading to even greater losses. I suggest immediately contacting the dealership or DMV to apply for a temporary plate—they’ll help prepare the required documents, like the invoice and ID. If you’re in a hurry to use the car, ask the seller to arrange a tow or get a friend to help. In short, when signing the purchase contract, clarify the temporary plate process to avoid trouble—don’t make the same silly mistake we did.
