Everything To Know About Temporary Tags

Posted on: 4 May 2022

So many people drive vehicles that police and others need a way to identify them. Therefore, most cars need a license plate on the front and back. However, in some cases, temporary tags are needed as an intermedium. If you would like to know more, keep reading.

What Are Temporary Tags?

Cars require license plates to help distinguish them from one another. A temporary tag is a temporary alternative to license plates. While license plates are made from metal and attached to the outside of your car, a temporary tag is a piece of paper you attach to the inside of the back window.

The tag includes a lot if information, including the expiration date. They also have a random identifier (like license plates), so police can identify the vehicle. Other information may include the date the temporary tag was issued, the year the car was made, the vehicle brand, the color of the vehicle, and much more.

How Do You Get Temporary Tags?

Depending on the situation, you may need to apply for temporary tags yourself, or the car dealership may file the paperwork on your behalf. For example, if you buy a car from a private seller, you'll need to go to the DMV and get a temporary tag. This usually requires filling out an application and paying a small fee. If you buy from a dealership, however, they may provide the temporary tag.

If you need to get the temporary tag yourself, you'll need a lot of documentation. Besides showing proof of identification, you may need to show the certificate of title, the application for the temporary tag, proof of car insurance coverage, and a valid driver's license.

Why Might You Need a Temporary Tag?

You usually need a temporary tag when you purchase a new or used vehicle, but those aren't the only instances. You may have a vehicle that hasn't been driven, registered, inspected, etc. This may include cars you restore or rebuild. To legally register the vehicle, you may need an inspection, and a tag allows you to legally drive to the inspection.

Temporary tags are also necessary when you move from a different state. Each state has their own license plates and temporary tags. Similarly, if you import a vehicle from out of the country, you may need temporary tags until the car can be registered.

Temporary tags are a temporary solution for license plates, and many Americans apply for them each day. They vary from state to state and have many benefits. If you would like to know more about tags and titles, contact your DMV.

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