How to Get a Temporary License Plate in California
Temporary license plates are called Temporary Operating Permits in California and typically last up to 90 days while you wait for permanent plates to arrive.
, a car dealer may issue a Temporary Operating Permit (TOP) if all your registration fees have been paid but your permanent California license plates and stickers have not yet been issued.
A temporary license plate is called a temporary operating permit (TOP) in California.
You can face citations or tickets, fines, and penalties if law enforcement catches you driving in California without license plates, even if you’re waiting for your new plates to arrive.
California offers different types of TOPs for different circumstances, some of which require fees.
Temporary license plates in California
A temporary operating permit (TOP) is the California version of a temporary paper license plate, and it typically lasts for 90 days. According to the California Vehicle Code, you’ll need a TOP to legally operate a new vehicle in California while you wait on your permanent license plates and registration stickers.
MORE: How to register a car in California
How to get a temporary operating permit in California
A licensed car dealership will issue a TOP if your plate and stickers aren’t ready when you
If you buy a used car, the dealership should also fill out and attach a Report of Sale (DMV Form REG 51) to the vehicle (usually on the bottom of the windshield on the passenger’s side). This form will include:
Vehicle’s make, model, year, and VIN
Date the vehicle was sold
Vehicle’s odometer reading
Numbers of the dealer and salesperson
Name and address of the person the vehicle was sold to
The temporary license plate number
Types of TOPs in California
There are other circumstances where you might need a different kind of temporary operating permit, including if your car fails its
. You can get the following TOPs from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Biennial Smog Certification TOP
If your vehicle fails the Biennial Smog Certification test, you’ll need to get a temporary permit. This permit will be valid for 60 days from the date of registration expiration or the date the vehicle is removed from non-operating status.
To get one, do the following:
Pay all registration fees, plus an additional $50 for the temporary permit
To move a vehicle from one place to another for inspection by the DMV or CHP, VIN verification or assignment, smog control inspection, weighing a vehicle, or getting brake or light certification
For a vehicle that is incomplete or in the process of being altered.
One Trip Permit
A unique permit is available for the following circumstances:
For a vehicle to participate in a parade or float from one place to another and for no more than 100 miles roundtrip, which must be completed within 60 days.
An unladen vehicle for one continuous trip from one place in California to another in or out-of-state, and vice-versa (must be the most direct route).
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