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Texas temporary license plate

How to get a temporary tag in Texas so you can legally drive a vehicle that is not permanently registered yet, how long it lasts, what it costs, and who issues it.

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How to get a temporary license plate in Texas

Buy a 30-Day Permit with Form VTR-66 at a county tax assessor-collector to drive an unregistered car. When you buy from a dealer, Texas now issues metal plates and a sticker at the sale rather than a paper buyer tag.

What it is called30-Day Permit
How long it lastsUp to 30 days (72-hour and 144-hour permits also exist)
What it costsA fee may apply. TxDMV lists the current amount.
Who issues itCounty tax office, or a dealer at purchase
Available onlineIn person, through the DMV or a dealer

Source: TxDMV. Rules and fees change, so confirm the current detail with TxDMV before you rely on it.

When your Texas temporary tag expires

A temporary tag is a short bridge, not a registration. Driving on an expired one in Texas is treated the same as driving with no plates, which is a ticket and can hold up a sale. Complete your full registration before the permit runs out.

Full Texas registration cost →What it costs to register the car properly once your temporary tag is in place. Temporary tags in every state →How Texas compares, and the rules elsewhere.

Common questions about Texas temporary tags

How do I get a temporary license plate in Texas?

Buy a 30-Day Permit with Form VTR-66 at a county tax assessor-collector to drive an unregistered car. When you buy from a dealer, Texas now issues metal plates and a sticker at the sale rather than a paper buyer tag. If you bought from a private seller, you get the permit yourself with the signed title and proof of insurance; a dealer issues one at the sale.

How long is a Texas temporary tag good for?

Up to 30 days (72-hour and 144-hour permits also exist). Driving on an expired temporary tag in Texas is treated the same as driving with no plates, so finish your registration before it runs out.

How much does a temporary tag cost in Texas?

It is often free when a dealer issues one at purchase. When TxDMV issues a permit there is usually a small fee; TxDMV lists the current amount.

Can I drive a car I just bought in Texas without plates?

Only with a valid temporary tag or permit. A dealer normally provides one at the sale. For a private purchase, get a 30-Day Permit before you drive the car any distance, because driving with no plates and no permit is a ticket.