Temporary License Plates for Vehicle Dealers in Maryland

Temporary license plates (also called temp tags) let a vehicle be driven legally for a short time while the permanent title and registration are being processed.

This page explains how temp tags work and what you need to do as a dealer.

When to issue a temp tag

Use a temporary license plate when:

• A vehicle is sold but the permanent title or registration is not yet complete
• The buyer needs to drive the vehicle before the title and registration are issued

Temp tags allow legal use of the vehicle for a limited time until the permanent plates arrive.

How to issue a temp tag

Step 1: Gather title and registration documents

You will need:

• Application for Certificate of Title (VR-005) - PDF - 260.92 KB
• All required supporting documents
• Proof of valid insurance for the buyer

Step 2: Complete the dealer temp tag form

Use the official dealer temp tag form provided by the MVA. Fill it out clearly and accurately.

Step 3: Give the temp tag to the buyer

Provide the buyer with the temp tag and make sure they know:

• The temp tag number
• The temp tag expiration date
• That the temp tag must be displayed on the vehicle
• That they must switch to permanent plates before the temp tag's expiration date

After the temp tag is issued

Before the temp tag expires, the MVA must issue the permanent license plates and the buyer must receive the permanent title or registration card. Once permanent plates arrive, the buyer should switch to those immediately.

Records to keep

Dealers should keep copies of:

• Temp tag forms issued
• Associated sales documents
• Proof of delivery to the buyer

Keeping good records helps solve questions later.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Incomplete or inaccurate temp tag forms
• Missing or incorrect insurance information
• Unsigned title or registration paperwork
• Not informing the buyer of the temp tag expiration date

These issues can delay the process and make the temp tag invalid.