
The process for registering a vehicle after purchase is: 1. Register at the vehicle management office and after verifying that all vehicle documents are complete, apply for license plates at the vehicle management office. First, a specialized traffic police officer will inspect the vehicle, mainly checking the vehicle identification code, vehicle appearance, and the vehicle's warning triangle plate; 2. After the vehicle inspection, you can go to the vehicle management office lobby to choose a license plate number. Generally, there are two options: self-selection or random selection, and you can choose either; 3. After selecting the number, pay the fees and wait to receive the license plates, which usually takes three to five working days; 4. Before processing, you need to obtain the vehicle qualification certificate, the triplicate purchase invoice, pay the vehicle purchase tax, and have the original and copy of the tax booklet ready. Also, prepare the original and copy of your ID card. If you are not a local resident, you need to provide the original and copy of your temporary residence permit.

After picking up your car, I recommend handling the purchase tax first. Bring the invoice and ID card to the tax office or handle it online. Then prepare the following materials: vehicle certificate of conformity, invoice registration copy, original compulsory insurance policy, original ID card, and the stamped vehicle frame number. Drive to the DMV and queue in the inspection lane, remembering to clean the vehicle frame number in the lower right corner of the windshield. Staff will take photos and inspect, which takes about 20 minutes. Then submit the materials at the service window and wait for system approval before selecting a license plate number. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with the interface by simulating the plate selection process on the Traffic Management 12123 App beforehand. Finally, pay the fees and collect your documents. New license plates usually take time to produce, so you can use temporary plates for about a week. The key to the whole process is having all materials ready, preferably with two copies prepared as backup.

I was much more proficient by my third license plate registration. The core process boils down to three things: tax payment, document preparation, and vehicle inspection. The purchase tax is calculated at 10% of the pre-tax vehicle price—make sure not to miscalculate. Prepare three copies of your ID card and two original invoices in your document folder. Don't panic if the inspection lane has long queues; bring bottled water and a portable fan. The inspection focuses on three key areas: the VIN under the windshield, the nameplate in the engine bay, and the stamped chassis number above the right rear wheel. If the number selection system lags, switch windows instead of waiting endlessly. Don't forget the ¥10 fee for the vehicle license. The green registration book is issued on the spot. Temporary plates can be applied for up to three times, with each valid for 15 days—plenty of time. When installing the plates, ensure the correct orientation: the side with letters faces outward.

Getting your license plate isn't hard at all! Here's my fastest route: First, pay the purchase tax online to save 1 hour, then arrive at the DMV by 8 AM to avoid peak hours. The essential documents are just five: car purchase invoice, certificate of conformity, ID card, compulsory insurance slip, and tax payment proof. Inspection area tips: make sure the sunroof is closed and there are no scratches on the body. For number selection, I strongly recommend pre-selecting on the 12123 app, keeping 15 self-numbered options. When choosing on-site, the 50 numbers displayed on the screen are in order—don't rush to click in the first 30 seconds. The 130 yuan fee supports QR code payment, and the vehicle license is printed on-site. There are two ways to install new plates: free installation by DMV staff or take them home for self-installation. I recommend the latter—just tighten them with the provided anti-theft screws. If everything goes smoothly, the whole process can be done within three hours.


