How to Drive to Get License Plates When the Temporary License Has Expired?
4 Answers
Here are the steps to re-register a vehicle with an expired temporary license: 1. First, you need to pay the vehicle purchase tax, select commercial insurance for the car, and undergo a criminal investigation inspection of the vehicle. Note that you must pay the vehicle and vessel tax before paying the purchase tax. Required documents include a copy of your ID card, a copy of the vehicle qualification certificate, the tax declaration form, and the tax invoice. 2. Go to the inspection station to complete the formalities: Non-exempt vehicles need to undergo an inspection, then pay the fees, fill out forms, take photos, submit documents, and collect the license plate application materials. 3. Take a number at the service hall and wait to process the relevant procedures. At this stage, you need to choose a license plate number. If you have already selected a number online, you must print out the online selection form. 4. Install the electronic license plate using the acceptance receipt, pay the road and bridge fees and processing fees at the payment hall, and collect the card at the road and bridge center. After collecting the card, use the acceptance receipt to pick up the license plate and documents at the service hall (usually takes about 1 business day).
I remember when I bought my car, I was in such a hurry to get it registered that I drove with an expired temporary license plate and got pulled over by the traffic police, resulting in a fine. It was a big lesson, and now I advise everyone not to take this risk. Driving with an expired temporary license plate is illegal and can easily lead to your car being impounded. The best approach is to schedule an appointment with the DMV in advance and complete the registration before the temporary plate expires. If it does expire, contact the DMV for advice—they might arrange an exception or guide you on towing the car there. I also learned from a friend that you can take a taxi or ask a family member to drive you to handle the registration, which is safer and more convenient. Set a phone reminder to avoid forgetting the expiration date. When registering, bring your car purchase invoice and ID—the process usually takes just half an hour. In short, following the rules saves trouble and avoids unnecessary fines of hundreds of dollars.
As an ordinary person who drives frequently, I feel that driving with an expired temporary license plate is definitely not an option when going to get the official plates. The risk of being stopped by the police is high—not only could you face fines of several hundred dollars, but your car might also be impounded, disrupting your plans. I prefer to plan ahead for the plate registration time. If the temporary plate has already expired, it's best to call the vehicle management office directly to inquire whether a towing service can be used to transport the car for processing. Some cities have temporary extension procedures, but you need to apply early. By the way, when you buy a new car, don’t delay too long—generally, temporary plates are only valid for about 15 days. If you must drive it yourself, check if it’s safer during off-peak hours, but I really don’t recommend taking the risk. Always prioritize safety to avoid disrupting your travel plans.
Driving with an expired temporary license plate poses too much risk, as you could be fined or have your vehicle impounded for driving without a plate. I recommend not driving it on the road and instead arranging for a tow truck to transport the vehicle directly to the DMV for processing. Explain the situation clearly to the staff there—they have procedures in place to help you obtain an emergency plate. Just prepare necessary documents like your ID and the vehicle purchase invoice. Always remember to set calendar reminders to avoid overlooking expiration dates. This approach prevents additional losses and wasted time. Safety should always come first.
