What Is a Temporary License Plate in Michigan?
A Temporary License Plate in Michigan is a provisional registration for newly purchased vehicles or those transitioning between states, allowing for legal road use while permanent registration is processed. Issued by the Michigan Department of State, these temporary plates ensure that all vehicles on Michigan roads are registered in compliance with state laws.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate in Michigan?
To obtain a temporary license plate in Michigan, follow these steps:
- Visit a Michigan Secretary of State office.
- Provide proof of vehicle ownership, such as a title or bill of sale.
- Show valid identification, like a driver’s license or state ID.
- Present proof of Michigan no-fault insurance.
- Pay the required fee for the temporary plate.
Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in Michigan?
Temporary License Plates can be obtained from any Michigan Secretary of State office. For specific locations, addresses, and phone numbers, visit their official website or contact customer service at 1-888-SOS-MICH (767-6424).
How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Michigan?
The fees for temporary registration permits or temporary license plates in Michigan are:
- 30-day temporary permit: $15
- 60-day temporary permit: $18
- 90-day temporary permit: $21
These temporary permits allow you to operate an eligible vehicle on public roads until you can get it permanently registered and titled in Michigan.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Michigan?
No, Michigan does not currently offer the ability to order or obtain temporary license plates online. According to the Michigan Secretary of State’s website, temporary registration permits or temporary license plates can only be purchased in person at a Secretary of State branch office.
The website states:
“Temporary permits are available for purchase at any Secretary of State branch office when transferring ownership of a vehicle or registering a newly purchased vehicle in Michigan for the first time.”
So, getting a temporary plate in Michigan requires visiting a Secretary of State branch office in person. You cannot apply for or order a temporary plate online or by mail.
What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Michigan?
Michigan provides several types of temporary plates, including:
- Temporary tags for newly purchased vehicles.
- In-transit repair plates for cars being moved for repairs.
- Temporary registration for residents newly moving to Michigan.
When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Michigan?
A temporary license plate is required when:
- A vehicle is newly purchased and awaiting permanent registration.
- A car is being moved to Michigan from another state.
- A car is under temporary circumstances that delay the immediate issuance of permanent plates.
Can I Get Insurance on a Car With Temporary Plates in Michigan?
Yes, you can obtain insurance on a car with temporary plates in Michigan. Proof of Michigan no-fault insurance is required to get a temporary license plate, indicating that insurers provide vehicle coverage even during the temporary registration period.
What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in Michigan?
To obtain a temporary tag in Michigan, you will need:
- Proof of vehicle ownership (title or bill of sale).
- Valid identification (driver’s license or state ID).
- Proof of Michigan no-fault insurance.
- Payment for the temporary tag fee.
How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Michigan?
In Michigan, the maximum period you can run a temporary license plate or temporary registration permit is 90 days.
The temporary permits are offered in the following durations:
- 30-day temporary permit
- 60-day temporary permit
- 90-day temporary permit
The 90-day option is the most extended temporary permit duration available in Michigan. Once the 90-day period expires, your vehicle must be appropriately titled and registered in Michigan with permanent metal plates.
Can I Drive on an Expired Temp Temporary License Plate in Michigan?
Driving on an expired temporary license plate in Michigan is illegal, subjecting the driver to potential fines and penalties. It is essential to obtain permanent registration before the temporary plate expires or renew the temporary registration if permissible by the state’s regulations.