What are the regulations for applying for and using temporary vehicle license plates?
2 Answers
Temporary license plates can be processed by the 4S store before the vehicle is picked up, or the owner can apply at the local vehicle management office by submitting the owner's ID card, car purchase invoice, vehicle certificate, and compulsory insurance policy, and then filling out the temporary license plate application form. Precautions for using temporary license plates: In case of an accident during the temporary license period, the insurance company will provide normal compensation because the temporary license is linked to compulsory insurance. The owner only needs to confirm the effective time of commercial insurance. If an accident occurs before the commercial insurance takes effect, the insurance company will only compensate for the compulsory insurance part. Temporary license plates must be placed correctly: Two temporary license plates should be affixed simultaneously. One should be placed on the upper right corner of the front windshield inside the vehicle, in a position that does not obstruct the driver's view, and should not be covered by the compulsory insurance label. The other should be placed on the upper left corner of the rear windshield inside the vehicle. For other types of vehicles, due to installation constraints, only one temporary license plate is required, but it should be placed on the lower left or lower right corner of the front windshield inside the vehicle, in a position that does not obstruct the driver's view, to ensure driving safety. Scope of use for temporary license plates: Local temporary license plates can only be used within the administrative jurisdiction, while temporary license plates for other regions are used for vehicles traveling across cities. Classification: Temporary license plates for administrative jurisdictions, temporary license plates for cross-administrative jurisdictions, temporary license plates for testing purposes, and temporary license plates for special types of vehicles.
Getting that temporary license plate after buying a car is actually quite simple. Every time I change cars, I go to the DMV or dealership to get a temporary plate. Just bring the car purchase invoice, the owner's ID, and the compulsory insurance policy, and it's usually done the same day. The validity period is 15 to 30 days, depending on local regulations. When using it, it must be placed on the inside of the windshield at the front right corner and the lower left side of the rear windshield—make sure not to block your view or put it in the wrong spot. You can only drive within the specified province or region where you applied for it; don't take long highway trips across provinces, or you'll get fined and lose points if caught by traffic cameras. Once, I was in a hurry and forgot to change the plate, ending up with a 200-yuan fine for driving with an expired one—totally not worth it. Remember to switch to the official plate on time; booking an appointment a week in advance ensures no delays, keeping things safe and hassle-free. Temporary plates are convenient, but don’t procrastinate—it could affect your insurance claims.
