How to Handle an Expired Temporary License Plate?
4 Answers
Here are the methods to handle an expired temporary license plate: 1. For new vehicles: The temporary license plate for a new vehicle cannot be used for more than 15 days. The owner should promptly apply for a formal license plate from the vehicle management authority. If the formal license plate has not arrived, another temporary license plate must be obtained, but each vehicle can only have a maximum of 3 temporary license plates. 2. For non-new vehicles with an expired temporary license plate: If the temporary license plate expires and cannot be registered, the owner must return to the local area to complete the registration within 30 days. Alternatively, they can reapply for a temporary license plate, which is generally valid for 15 days. The owner should apply for a formal license plate within the validity period of the temporary license plate. 3. Regarding extensions: A local temporary license plate can be extended up to three times, allowing a total usage period of 21 days. During this period, the vehicle can only be driven within the city and must not leave the region; otherwise, it will be treated as an unlicensed vehicle. The procedure for extending the validity period of a temporary license plate is the same as the initial application. The owner can apply for a temporary license plate from the public security authority by providing identification, the vehicle purchase invoice, the new vehicle certificate, the compulsory traffic insurance certificate, or import certificates and copies of related documents. During the application, the owner should specify the start and end locations of the vehicle's travel and the duration of the temporary license plate usage.
Here's how I handled the expired temporary license plate: As a new car owner, I always check the validity period of the temporary plate in advance, which is usually printed on the plate or the receipt from when it was issued. Typically, temporary plates are valid for 15 to 30 days, depending on local regulations. A week before expiration, I prepare the necessary documents: original and photocopy of my ID, car purchase invoice, vehicle certificate, and the original insurance policy. I then go directly to the local DMV to queue up for the formal license plate replacement—it's common to wait half a day when it's crowded, so I recommend using a mobile app to book an appointment in advance to avoid a wasted trip. After processing, the old temporary plate must be torn up or surrendered on the spot, and the new plate is installed. If you delay the process and are caught by traffic police while driving, you could be fined 200 to 500 RMB and possibly lose 3 points on your license. Worse, in case of an accident, the insurance might refuse to cover the damages. Having learned from my past mistakes, I now set reminders every time I buy a car—never overlook the details, safety comes first.
I've been driving for almost 30 years, and handling an expired temporary license plate is quite simple: check the validity period in advance, bring your ID card, vehicle purchase certificate, and insurance proof to the DMV. The process can take as little as half an hour, but be prepared with some water if it's slow. When applying for the official plate, the old temporary one becomes invalid—don't just throw it away to avoid misuse. Using an expired temporary plate is absolutely not allowed; the fine is minor, but the points deduction affecting your driving record is troublesome. I recommend that beginners develop good habits—don’t speed or violate traffic rules during the temporary plate period, or you’ll face a pile of fines when switching to the official plate. The money- and hassle-saving approach is to act early; don’t wait until the last day. If your documents are incomplete, check the DMV’s official website for a checklist and prepare accordingly in advance.
I'll handle the temporary license plate immediately upon expiration. Contact the DMV before it expires, bring your ID, insurance policy, and vehicle purchase documents to complete the plate replacement procedure. Don't drive after it expires, or you'll be fined. It's simple and quick, don't delay your daily commute.
