Temporary vehicle registration tags, often affixed to a vehicle at the dealership, allow newly purchased vehicles to be legally driven until permanent registration is obtained. These tags provide a specific timeframe for owners to complete the registration process with their local Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency. A typical example involves a dealership placing a paper tag displaying a temporary number and expiration date on the rear of the car.
These temporary permits offer a valuable bridge between purchase and permanent registration, streamlining the process for both dealerships and buyers. Dealers benefit by avoiding the complexities of registering vehicles in potentially numerous jurisdictions. Customers gain the immediate convenience of driving their new purchase home without delay. Historically, these temporary tags evolved from the need to simplify interstate vehicle sales and address the logistical challenges of immediate registration.