Wisconsin Temporary License Plate
What Is a Temporary License Plate in Wisconsin?
A temporary license plate in Wisconsin is a short-term registration that allows a vehicle to be legally driven on public roads for a limited period. Temporary plates are typically issued for cars newly purchased, leased, or sold by a dealership. They are also available for individuals who need to transport a vehicle to another state or are waiting for their permanent license plates to arrive.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate in Wisconsin?
To obtain a temporary license plate in Wisconsin, follow these steps:
- Purchase or lease a vehicle from a dealership or private seller.
- Provide the necessary documentation to the dealership or the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), including:
- A completed Application for Title/Registration (Form MV1)
- Proof of ownership (e.g., Bill of Sale, Title Transfer)
- Proof of identity
- Odometer disclosure statement
- Pay the required fees for the temporary plate, which may include:
- Temporary plate fee
- Title and registration fees
- Sales tax (if applicable)
- Receive your temporary license plate and display it on your vehicle in the designated location.
Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in Wisconsin?
You can obtain a temporary license plate in Wisconsin through the following methods:
- Dealerships: Most dealerships in Wisconsin are authorized to issue temporary license plates when you purchase or lease a vehicle from them.
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) service centers: You can apply for a temporary plate in person at a WisDOT service center. The DMV Service Center Locator can help you find a location near you.
How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Wisconsin?
The cost of a temporary license plate in Wisconsin is $3. This fee includes any other applicable title, registration, and sales tax fees associated with your vehicle purchase or lease. The total cost of registering your vehicle will depend on the vehicle type, weight, and the specific registration period. For the most up-to-date fee information, visit the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website or contact a WisDOT service center.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Wisconsin?
Unfortunately, you cannot obtain a temporary license plate online in Wisconsin. Temporary plates must be issued by an authorized dealership or a Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) service center. To get a temporary plate, visit a dealership when purchasing or leasing a vehicle or go to a WisDOT service center in person with the required documentation and fees.
What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, several types of temporary license plates are available to accommodate different needs and scenarios:
- Standard Temporary Plates: These plates are issued for short-term use ranging from 5 to 90 days. They are typically used when a new vehicle is purchased, and the owner awaits permanent plates.
- Temporary Vehicle Registration (TVR): This type of registration is specifically for motor carriers who have vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP). It is valid for 30 days and primarily for commercial vehicles operating across state lines.
When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Wisconsin?
A temporary license plate is required in Wisconsin when:
- Purchasing or leasing a new or used vehicle from a dealership: The dealership will issue a temporary plate to allow you to drive the car while waiting for your permanent plates to arrive.
- Buying a vehicle from a private seller: If you purchase a car from a private party, you must obtain a temporary plate from a Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) service center to legally drive the vehicle until you receive your permanent registration.
- Transporting a vehicle to another state: If you need to drive a car for registration or sale, you must obtain a temporary plate from a WisDOT service center.
- Waiting for permanent plates to arrive: If you have applied for permanent registration and license plates but have yet to receive them, a temporary plate allows you to operate your vehicle legally.
Can I Get Insurance on a Car With Temporary Plates in Wisconsin?
Yes, you can get insurance on a car with temporary plates in Wisconsin. Wisconsin law requires all vehicles operating on public roads to be covered by minimum liability insurance, as outlined in Wisconsin Statute 344.62. The minimum insurance requirements are:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons
- $10,000 for property damage
When purchasing insurance for a vehicle with temporary plates, you will need to provide your insurance company with the vehicle information, including the make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), as well as the details of your temporary registration. Your insurance company will then issue you a proof of insurance card, which you should always keep in your vehicle.
What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in Wisconsin?
To obtain a temporary license plate in Wisconsin, you will need to provide the following paperwork:
- A completed Application for Title/Registration (Form MV1)
- Proof of ownership, such as:
- Bill of Sale
- Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (for new vehicles)
- Proof of identity, such as:
- Valid driver's license
- State-issued ID card
- Passport
- Odometer disclosure statement (for cars less than ten years old)
- Proof of Wisconsin insurance
- Payment for the required fees, including:
- Temporary plate fee ($3)
- Title and registration fees (vary based on vehicle type and registration period)
- Sales tax (if applicable)
If you are obtaining a temporary plate from a dealership, they will typically assist you in completing the necessary paperwork and collecting the required fees. If you get a temporary plate from a Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) service center, you must bring the above documents and payment.
How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the duration you can run a temporary license plate depends on the specific situation and type of temporary registration:
- General Temporary Plates: Typically issued for new vehicle purchases, these plates are valid for up to 90 days or until the regular registration plates are received, whichever occurs first.
- Temporary Vehicle Registration (TVR): Issued mainly for motor carriers under the International Registration Plan (IRP), these are valid for 30 days and are designed for both interstate and intrastate travel.
Can I Drive on an Expired Temp Temporary License Plate in Wisconsin?
No, you cannot legally drive on an expired temporary license plate in Wisconsin. According to Wisconsin Statute 341.04, operating a vehicle on public roads without valid registration, including a current license plate, is unlawful. Driving with an expired temporary plate can result in fines, penalties, and potentially the impoundment of your vehicle.