Washington D.C. Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in Washington D.C.?

A temporary license plate in Washington, D.C., is a short-term vehicle registration solution offered by the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV). It allows residents to legally drive their vehicles for a limited period while waiting for their permanent registration and license plates.

How To Get a Temporary License Plate in Washington D.C.?

To obtain a temporary license plate in Washington, D.C., follow these steps:

• Visit a DC DMV service center in person.
• Bring the required documents, including:
  • Certificate of Title/ Temporary Tag Application
  • A properly endorsed title
  • Proof of valid DC insurance
  • Valid DC DMV credential
• Pay all fees associated with the title transaction, including the temporary registration fee, excise tax, title fee, and lien recordation fee (if applicable).

Once these steps are completed, the DC DMV will issue a 45-day temporary vehicle registration and a complex vehicle tag.

Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in Washington D.C.?

Temporary license plates can be obtained at any DC DMV service center. The locations, phone numbers, and operating hours of DC DMV service centers are on their official website: DC DMV Service Centers.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Washington D.C.?

The cost of a temporary license plate in Washington, D.C., varies depending on the specific fees associated with the title transaction. These fees may include the temporary registration fee, excise tax, title fee, and lien recordation fee (if applicable). For the most up-to-date information on fees, visit the DC DMV Fees page.

How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Washington D.C.?

No, it is not possible to obtain a temporary license plate online in Washington, D.C. You must visit a DC DMV service center in person to apply for one.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Washington D.C.?

The DC DMV offers two types of temporary license plates:

• A 45-day temporary vehicle registration and complex vehicle tag for District residents who must have their vehicles inspected before the cars can be fully registered.
• A five-day temporary paper tag for out-of-state residents who recently purchased a used vehicle in the District from an individual (owner).

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Washington D.C.?

A temporary license plate is required in Washington D.C. when:

• A District resident must inspect their vehicle before it can be fully registered.
• An out-of-state resident has recently purchased a used vehicle in the District from an individual (owner).
• A new District resident has expired out-of-state tags and is waiting for their out-of-state title from the lienholder.

Can I Get Insurance on a Car With Temporary Plates in Washington D.C.?

Yes, you can obtain insurance on a car with temporary plates in Washington, D.C. When registering a vehicle and obtaining temporary tags, you must show valid proof of insurance. The District of Columbia requires all vehicles, including those with temporary registration and tags, to have valid insurance coverage.

What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in Washington D.C.?

To get a temporary tag in Washington, D.C., you will need the following paperwork:

• Certificate of Title/ Temporary Tag Application
• A properly endorsed title
• Proof of valid DC insurance
• Valid DC DMV credential

How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Washington D.C.?

The duration of a temporary license plate in Washington, D.C., depends on the type of temporary plate issued:

• A 45-day temporary vehicle registration and complex vehicle tag is issued to District residents who must have their vehicles inspected before they can be fully registered.
• Out-of-state residents who recently purchased a used vehicle in the District from an individual (owner) are issued a five-day temporary paper tag.

Can I Drive on an Expired Temporary License Plate in Washington D.C.?

No, you cannot drive on an expired temporary license plate in Washington, D.C. It is illegal to operate a vehicle with an expired temporary registration. Once your temporary license plate expires, you must either obtain a permanent registration or stop driving the car until you can complete the registration process.