In Oregon, you can get a temporary trip permit from the DMV for $33. This permit allows you to drive without license plates for up to 21 days while the official ones come in the mail.
Does Oregon issue temporary plates?
Yes! The Oregon department of transportation offers temporary plates, called temporary trip permits, that last for up to 21 days.
If you’re still waiting for your motor vehicle title transfer, a temporary trip permit can be a lifesaver. According to the Oregon DMV, the permit will set you back $33.
If you need to extend your temporary permit, you’re allowed to renew it once during a one-year period.
Do temporary Oregon license plates work?
Temporary trip permits in Oregon are a practical means to drive your car while you’re still finishing off the final details of transferring ownership.
Unlike states that face issues with temporary plate fraud, Oregon has largely been able to prevent the illegal use of temporary license plates.
If you know of anybody who has a fraudulent license plate (or if you have another related concern), you can file a complaint with the Oregon DMV.
How to get a temporary trip permit in Oregon
To get a legitimate trip permit, apply for one through Oregon’s online DMV2U service (or go in person to a field office). This applies if you need tags for a passenger vehicle, travel trailer, camper, motorcycle, or mobile home.
It will take up to a week for your application to be processed, so be sure to apply early for your vehicle trip permit. Here’s how.
Temporary trip permits in Oregon
Though you can get a temporary trip permit by visiting your local DMV office, it’s much easier to use Oregon’s online application portal. Either way, you’ll need to have the following handy:
- Your driver’s license or ID card number
- The year, make, and model of your vehicle
- Your VIN
- Proof of ownership
- Your vehicle registration card, insurance card, sales contract, and a pencil tracing of the VIN
- Proof of insurance (company name and policy number)
- A credit or debit card for payment
Once you’ve gathered these and submitted your application, you’ll be on your way to getting a temporary trip permit. It allows you to:
- Use an unregistered vehicle on Oregon roads
- Use a registered vehicle differently than the current registration allows
Can I drive a car I just bought without plates in Oregon?
Yes—as long as you have a valid trip permit!
If you’re purchasing a new car but not sure that you’ll have the plates right away, it’s a good idea to get the ball rolling on a temporary trip permit. That way, you’ll receive yours as soon as possible and be good to go for 21 days while the permit is active.
Samuel Todd is an insurance writer with over three years of experience writing and editing content for various industries. Samuel specializes in helping car owners understand the ins and outs of what makes a “good” car, ensuring they always get the best value for their dollar. Since joining Jerry’s team of experts, Samuel has written nearly 200 articles for Jerry on topics including state regulations, common vehicle problems, and city insurance landscapes. Before joining Jerry, Samuel was an editor for Lamplight Books.
Bellina Gaskey is Jerry’s content editor and head of video. The Motor City native specializes in creating articles and video content car owners can use to reduce costs, master repair skills, and learn more about all things car. Bellina has edited nearly 2,000 articles on car ownership and home insurance topics, and scripted and appeared in over 350 videos on car ownership, insurance tips, and automotive news racking up more than three million views. Prior to joining Jerry, Bellina worked as a media consultant for a legal e-discovery startup and as a research assistant at the University of Michigan, where she completed a degree in Classical Languages and Literature.
Georgina Grant is a senior insurance editor and researcher with 8 years of experience in digital communications. She specializes in home insurance and car maintenance and strives to create accurate and comprehensive guides that highlight the details that matter most to homeowners and drivers. Georgina has edited over 1,500 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from engine oil capacity to state community property laws. Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2021, Georgina worked as a contributor at Forbes, a film development intern at Madison Wells, and a content editor at professional coaching agency Readily. Her work has appeared in Forbes and The Stanford Daily.
