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Virginia License Plate Lookup /Temporary License Plate

Virginia Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in Virginia?

A temporary license plate, also known as a temporary tag or temporary registration, is a short-term vehicle registration that allows individuals to legally drive their vehicles on public roads in Virginia for a limited period. These plates are typically issued by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or authorized dealers when a vehicle is newly purchased or when the permanent plates still need to be made available. Temporary license plates in Virginia are made of durable, weather-resistant materials and display unique identification numbers, expiration dates, and other relevant information.

How To Get a Temporary License Plate in Virginia?

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

  • Purchase a vehicle from a licensed dealer or through a private sale.
  • Provide the required documentation to the dealer or DMV, such as a bill of sale, proof of identity, and proof of Virginia residency.
  • Pay the necessary fees for the temporary license plate, which may vary depending on the type of vehicle and the length of the temporary registration period.
  • Receive your temporary license plate, registration card, and other relevant documents from the dealer or DMV.
  • Affix the temporary license plate to your vehicle in the designated location, typically on the vehicle's rear.

If you purchase a vehicle from a licensed dealer in Virginia, they will typically handle the temporary license plate application process on your behalf. However, if you acquire a car through a private sale, you may need to visit a Virginia DMV office in person to apply for a temporary license plate.

Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in Virginia?

Temporary license plates in Virginia can be obtained from the following sources:

  • Licensed Virginia Vehicle Dealers: When purchasing a vehicle from a licensed dealer in Virginia, they will typically handle the temporary license plate application process for you.
  • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Offices: If you acquire a vehicle through a private sale or need a temporary license plate for any other reason, visit your local Virginia DMV office. You can find your nearest DMV office by visiting the Virginia DMV website or calling (804) 497-7100.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Virginia?

The cost of a temporary license plate in Virginia varies depending on the type of vehicle and the length of the temporary registration period. The fees for temporary license plates in Virginia are as follows:

  • Passenger vehicles and motorcycles: $3 for a 30-day temporary license plate
  • Trucks and other vehicles: $3 for a 30-day temporary license plate
  • All vehicles: $1.50 for a 5-day temporary transport tag

How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Virginia?

No, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not offer a complete online process for individuals to obtain temporary license plates. However, suppose you are purchasing a vehicle from a licensed Virginia dealer. In that case, you may receive your temporary license plate more quickly through the dealer's participation in the Print on Demand (PoD) Temporary Tag Program.

Under the PoD program, licensed Virginia vehicle dealers can print temporary license plates directly from their dealership when a vehicle is sold. This allows dealers to provide temporary tags to their customers without requiring the customer to visit a DMV office. If you buy a car from a participating dealer, they will handle the temporary license plate process using the PoD system.

Suppose you purchase a vehicle through a private sale or from a dealer not participating in the PoD program. In that case, you must obtain your temporary license plate in person at a Virginia DMV office.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Virginia?

In Virginia, there are two main types of temporary license plates:

  • Standard Temporary License Plates: These plates are issued when you purchase a vehicle from a licensed dealer or through a private sale, and they are typically valid for 30 days. They allow you to legally drive your car while waiting for your permanent license plates to arrive.
  • Temporary Transport Tags: These tags are issued when you need to transport a vehicle that is not currently registered, such as moving a car to another state or taking it to a mechanic for repairs. Temporary transport tags in Virginia are typically valid for five days.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Virginia?

A temporary license plate is required in Virginia in the following situations:

  • When you purchase a new or used vehicle from a licensed dealer, and your permanent license plates have not yet been issued
  • When you acquire a vehicle through a private sale and need to drive it before obtaining permanent registration and license plates
  • When you need to transport an unregistered vehicle for a short period, such as when moving it to another state or taking it for repairs

In these situations, a temporary license plate allows you to legally operate the vehicle on public roads in Virginia until you receive your permanent registration and license plates.

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

Yes, you can obtain insurance on a car with temporary plates in Virginia. Virginia law requires all vehicles to be insured, regardless of whether they have temporary or permanent license plates. When purchasing insurance for a car with temporary plates, you will need to provide your insurance company with the following information:

  • The vehicle's make, model, and year
  • The vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • The temporary license plate number and expiration date
  • Your personal information, such as your name, address, and driver's license number

It is essential to secure insurance coverage for your vehicle as soon as possible after obtaining your temporary license plate to ensure compliance with Virginia's insurance requirements and to protect yourself in case of an accident or other incident.

What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in Alaska, Virginia?

To obtain a temporary license plate (tag) in Virginia, you will need to provide the following paperwork:

  • Proof of identity, such as a valid driver's license, state-issued ID card, or passport
  • Proof of Virginia residency, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement in your name
  • A completed application for a temporary license plate (available at DMV offices or through licensed dealers)
  • A bill of sale or other documentation proving your ownership of the vehicle
  • Proof of insurance coverage for the vehicle
  • Payment for the temporary license plate fees

How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Virginia?

The duration of a temporary license plate in Virginia depends on the type of plate you receive:

  • Standard Temporary License Plates: These plates are typically valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. They are designed to allow you to legally operate your vehicle while waiting for your permanent registration and license plates.
  • Temporary Transport Tags: These tags are usually valid for five days from the date of issuance. They are intended for short-term use when transporting an unregistered vehicle, such as moving it to another state or taking it for repairs.

It is crucial to note that Virginia's temporary license plates are not renewable. Suppose your temporary plate expires before you receive your permanent registration and license plates. In that case, you must obtain a new temporary plate or risk driving without a valid registration, which can result in legal penalties.

Can I Drive on an Expired Temp Temporary License Plate in Virginia?

No, driving a vehicle with an expired temporary license plate is illegal in Virginia. Once your temporary plate has expired, you are only legally permitted to operate the vehicle on public roads once you have obtained a valid registration and license plate.

Driving with an expired temporary license plate can result in several penalties, including:

  • Traffic citations and fines: If you are pulled over by law enforcement while driving with an expired temporary plate, you may be issued a ticket and required to pay a fine. The amount of the fine can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the violation.
  • Vehicle impoundment: In some cases, law enforcement may choose to impound your vehicle if you are caught driving with an expired temporary plate. This means your car will be towed and stored at an impound lot until you can provide proof of valid registration and pay any required fees.
  • Suspension of driving privileges: Repeated violations of Virginia's vehicle registration laws, including driving with an expired temporary plate, can lead to the suspension of your driving privileges. This means you will not be legally allowed to operate a motor vehicle for a specified period.
  • Increased insurance rates: If you are cited for driving with an expired temporary plate, your insurance company may view this as a higher-risk behavior and increase your insurance premiums.