How to Register a Vehicle with an Expired Temporary License Plate?

[MichaelLee]

Methods for registering a vehicle with an expired temporary license plate: 1. Call a tow truck, but this requires paying towing fees; 2. Reapply for a temporary license plate. If the owner finds it inconvenient, they can also ask the 4S store staff if they can help with the application on their behalf, which will also require paying a fee to the 4S store. Vehicle owners should note that the validity period of a temporary license plate is generally 15 days, and the number of applications is limited to three. A temporary license plate, also known as a temporary vehicle movement permit, is a paper license plate issued by the vehicle management department of the public security authorities for newly purchased vehicles before they are officially registered. Temporary license plates are divided into four types: temporary plates for administrative jurisdictions, temporary plates for cross-administrative jurisdictions, temporary plates for testing purposes, and temporary plates for special-type motor vehicles.

[DeHarmony]

I’ve also encountered the situation where my temporary license plate expired, and it was quite annoying. Let me quickly share how to handle it. If your temporary plate has expired, never drive the car directly—otherwise, you might get fined or penalized by the police, and in severe cases, your vehicle could be impounded. To get your official license plate, you’ll need to prepare the required documents and visit the DMV. Bring items like the car purchase invoice, your ID card, the compulsory traffic insurance policy, and the original vehicle certificate. At the DMV, you’ll need to explain why your temporary plate expired—usually, you’ll face a small fine—then queue up to complete the procedures, including vehicle inspection, form filling, fee payment, and finally receiving your official license plate. The whole process takes about half a day, so it’s best to go early to avoid peak hours. It’s also a good idea to set a reminder on your phone a week before expiration and book an appointment at the DMV to avoid last-minute rush, like what happened to me. Once you get your plate, remember to attach it properly—driving legally and safely is what matters most.

[MelanieAnn]

I often think about cars and frequently remind others that driving with an expired temporary license plate is a pitfall. After the temporary plate expires, the first step to getting a formal license is not to drive the car, otherwise you could face a fine of several hundred yuan and penalty points. Then, prepare the necessary documents: a copy of the car purchase invoice, proof of compulsory traffic insurance, a copy of the owner’s ID card, along with the vehicle certificate and the proof of purchase tax payment. When going to the DMV, first inquire at the counter about the reissuance process. Usually, you’ll need an on-site vehicle inspection and photo session, with costs including a license plate production fee of over a hundred yuan. It’s recommended to download the traffic management app to book an appointment in advance, saving you the hassle of waiting in line. Make sure all key documents are complete—missing any could mean multiple trips. For example, I once forgot the invoice and wasted half a day. After completing the process, remember to install the formal license plate—safety comes first when driving, and it also helps avoid repeating the same mistake next time.

[Hillary]

Buddy, don't sweat it if your temporary license plate expires, just get it sorted ASAP. When I first bought my car, I forgot to renew the temp plate too. Once I realized it expired, I went straight to the DMV. Just bring your purchase receipt, insurance policy, and ID card, explain the situation on the spot and submit the required documents. Usually you'll pay a small fine and then can get your official plates. The process isn't complicated - just wait for the plates to be made and put them on. My advice: don't procrastinate. Check the app one week before expiration to handle it early and save yourself hassle. Remember not to drive with expired plates - it's safer and avoids unnecessary trouble.