North Carolina Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in North Carolina?

A temporary license plate in North Carolina, often called a temporary tag, is a provisional, time-limited plate issued to new vehicle owners or those transferring vehicle ownership. It allows them to legally drive while waiting for permanent registration and plates. They are issued by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) under specific regulations, including proof of vehicle ownership and insurance, to facilitate the movement of an unregistered vehicle.

How To Get a Temporary License Plate in North Carolina?

To obtain a temporary license plate in North Carolina, follow these steps:

• Visit a local Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
• Provide proof of vehicle ownership and valid auto insurance.
• Complete the necessary application forms.
• Pay the required fees.

Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in North Carolina?

Temporary license plates can be obtained at any North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) office. For further assistance, contact the NCDMV customer service at (919) 715-7000.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in North Carolina?

The cost for a temporary license plate in North Carolina:

• The standard fee for a 30-day temporary license plate in North Carolina is $25.00 per set. If ordering temporary plates by mail, there is a minimum order requirement of $50.00 (2 sets of plates). Temporary plates can only be shipped via overnight trackable packaging to the dealer’s physical address on record unless picked up in person.

• The fee for a 10-day temporary license plate is $10.00.This $10.00 fee applies whether the temporary tag is obtained directly by an individual or through a dealership after purchasing a vehicle.

Additional costs may be associated if the temporary tag is required for longer than ten days, typically scaling with the regular licensing fees for up to 60 days.

How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in North Carolina?

North Carolina residents may apply for a temporary license plate online through the NCDMV’s official website. The process includes:

• Submitting the required documents digitally.
• Paying any applicable fees online.
• Receiving the temporary license plate by mail.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, there are several types of temporary license plates issued for different purposes and durations:

• 10-Day Temporary Plates: These are most commonly used when a vehicle is purchased and permanent registration is still being prepared. The fee for this plate is ten dollars, and it allows the car to be driven legally while the owner completes the registration process.
• 30 to 60-Day Temporary Tags: These tags are available for specific cases where additional time might be needed beyond the standard ten days, such as for vehicles bought out of state or other exceptional circumstances. These tags ensure the car remains legally operable while logistics are sorted out.
• Temporary Tags for Dealers: Issued to car dealerships, these plates are used on vehicles that are temporarily driven for purposes such as test drives or transfer from one dealer to another before sale.

These temporary plates provide flexibility and legal compliance for drivers in North Carolina as they transition to or wait for their permanent vehicle registration.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in North Carolina?

A temporary license plate is required in North Carolina primarily under two circumstances:

• New Vehicle Purchase: When a vehicle is purchased from a dealership or a private sale and permanent registration is not immediately available, a temporary license plate allows the new owner to drive the vehicle while the registration process is completed legally.
• Vehicle Registration Renewal or Transfer: If a vehicle’s registration is being renewed or transferred and the new plates are unavailable, a temporary plate may be issued to maintain legal driving status. This ensures the vehicle can still be used on public roads without interruption.

Can I Get Insurance on a Car With Temporary Plates in North Carolina?

Yes, you can get insurance on a car with temporary plates in North Carolina. North Carolina state law mandates that all vehicles with a valid registration, including those with temporary plates, must have continuous liability insurance. Therefore, ensuring your car is insured is essential, even if it only has temporary tags.

What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in North Carolina?

To obtain a temporary tag in North Carolina, you will need the following documents:

• Proof of vehicle ownership (title or bill of sale)
• Valid identification (driver’s license or ID card)
• Proof of insurance
• Completed application for temporary tags

How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the duration you can run a temporary license plate depends on the specific type of temporary tag issued. Typically, temporary license plates can last from a minimum of 10 days up to a maximum of 60 days. This range allows vehicle owners to manage their registration and related formalities within a reasonable timeframe before obtaining their permanent plates.

Can I Drive on an Expired Temporary License Plate in North Carolina?

Driving on an expired temporary license plate in North Carolina is illegal. Once the temporary tag expires, you must have either received your permanent plates or obtained another temporary tag to continue driving legally.