Is a Temporary License Plate Required for Motorcycles?
3 Answers
Motorcycles require temporary license plates. As motorcycles are also a type of motor vehicle, if you intend to ride a motorcycle on public roads, the rider must possess the appropriate driver's license, and the motorcycle must have a license plate. Temporary license plates can be used for up to 90 days. Below are the conditions for applying for a temporary license plate: 1. When driving the motorcycle from the place of purchase to the place of use, you must apply for a temporary license plate at the vehicle management office in the place of purchase. 2. If the vehicle is being transferred and the official license plate has been surrendered, you must apply for a temporary license plate at the local vehicle management office to drive it back to your locality. 3. For a new vehicle that has not yet obtained an official license plate in the local area but needs to be driven to another location for modifications, you must apply for a temporary license plate locally. After modifications are completed, apply for a temporary license plate at the local office to drive it back to the original area. 4. If you purchase a vehicle locally and need to drive it to another location, you must apply for a temporary license plate locally to drive it to the other location, and vice versa. 5. Vehicles that have not yet been registered and need to be temporarily tested.
Temporary motorcycle license plates must be properly displayed, otherwise you might get into trouble if spotted by police while riding. With over a decade of motorcycle experience, I initially thought temporary plates weren't a big deal. But once, when mine wasn't securely attached, it blew away in the wind. An officer stopped me asking where my plate was - I had to explain at length and still got fined. Since then, I always carefully attach it to the rear fender or seat, ensuring clear visibility. Though just a paper document, regulations require it to be displayed like a regular plate for vehicle identification. Failure to display may result in fines, and insurance might deny claims in case of accidents. New riders should check the temporary plate instructions and install it properly without cutting corners. Remember they're typically valid for 30 days - don't let them expire.
I just learned to ride a motorcycle recently and bought a used one. The seller gave me a temporary license plate, but I wasn't sure if I needed to display it. After asking my brother, I understood that it must be displayed, attached at the back, to be legal. Otherwise, if the police check and can't find it, they'll fine you and waste your time. Even worse, in case of a scrape or accident, others can note the license plate to confirm your identity. Displaying the temporary plate isn't hard—just put it in a waterproof bag and stick it firmly so it won't fall off on windy days. Also, don't forget that temporary plates are for the transition period; replace them with the official ones as soon as you get them. At first, I put it in the wrong place, but after my friend corrected me, I felt safe to hit the road.
