How to Get a Temporary Tag in Alabama

If you’ve just bought a car in Alabama, you’re probably asking one simple question: “How do I legally drive it home?” You can’t use the seller’s plates, and you don’t have your own yet. The answer is an Alabama temporary tag.

This guide will immediately clear up the biggest myth: for a private sale, you cannot get a temporary tag online. The online system is for dealers only. Getting your tag is a simple in-person, walk-in process.

This guide will show you which office to go to (and which one to avoid), the documents you must bring, and the real cost you’ll have to pay.

Alabama’s “Two-Office” Secret: Where to Go for a Temp Tag

This is the most important piece of information for any Alabama resident. The “DMV” is split into two completely different offices:

1. The ALEA (Driver’s License) Office: This is the state-run office where you book an appointment for your driver’s license, permit, or REAL ID. They do not handle temporary tags or vehicle registration.
2. The County License Plate Office (Revenue Commissioner): This is your local, county-level office. This is the ONLY place to get a temporary tag, register a car, or transfer a title. This office is walk-in only.

CRITICAL: Do not book an appointment at the ALEA office to get a temporary tag. You will be in the wrong building and will be turned away.

Did You Buy from a Dealer? You’re Already Done.

If you bought your vehicle (new or used) from any licensed Alabama dealership, you can stop reading. The dealer is required by law to handle all your paperwork. They will issue you a 20-day temporary tag on the spot, and your permanent metal plates will be mailed to you.

This guide is for private sales (buying from another person).

The Private Sale Process (Your In-Person Guide)

If you bought a car from a private individual, you are responsible for getting the tag. Here are the exact steps.

Step 1: Get the Car Insured

This is the real first step. You cannot get a tag without proof of insurance. Call your insurance agent and add the “new” car (using its VIN) to your policy. You must have your valid, current Alabama insurance card.

Step 2: Gather Your “Must-Have” Documents

Before you go, you must have this packet. You will be rejected if you are missing any of these.

• Proof of Ownership (one of these):
  • The original Vehicle Title, with the seller’s signature on the back.
  • A Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) for a brand-new car.
• A Bill of Sale: This is required. It must show the purchase date, price, and VIN, and be signed by both you and the seller.
• Proof of Insurance: Your valid Alabama insurance card.
• Your Valid ID: Your current, valid Alabama driver’s license.

What if the seller lost the title?

You cannot get a tag. The seller must first apply for and receive an Alabama title replacement. Do not buy a car from a private seller who does not have the title in their hand.

Step 3: Visit Your County License Plate Office (Walk-In)

• Go to your local County License Plate Issuing Office (Revenue Commissioner or Probate Judge’s office).
• Tell the clerk you have just purchased a vehicle and need to get a temporary tag and complete the title transfer.

Step 4: Pay the Fees (The Real Cost)

This is the part everyone gets wrong. You don’t just pay a small fee for the tag. To get the 20-day tag, you must pay the full sales tax on the vehicle at the same time.

Be prepared to pay:

• Title Fee: $18.00
• Temporary Tag Fee: ~$2.25 (varies slightly by county)
• Ad Valorem Tax (Sales Tax): This is the big one. It’s a percentage (typically 2-4%) of the vehicle’s purchase price or “market value.”

The clerk will process your paperwork, you will pay the fees, and you will walk out with your 20-day temporary tag and a receipt.

Alabama Temporary Tag Application Form

Understanding the requirements and procedures for acquiring a temporary tag in Alabama is essential. From legal guidelines to specific documentation, this section provides complete details you need to successfully navigate the application process.

Alabama-Temporary-Tag-Form

Sample Temporary Tag In Alabama

To provide you with a clearer understanding, a sample temporary tag is available for your reference at the licensing office. This example showcases how the tag should appear and the information it must include, such as your vehicle’s make and model. Reviewing a sample can help you prevent potential errors and ensure a smooth application process.

FAQs

Conclusion

Getting an Alabama temporary tag is a simple but crucial step after buying a car. Remember to use the 20-day validity period wisely to secure your permanent license plate and complete the full registration process. By following the steps in this guide, you can ensure your vehicle is legal to drive from day one, giving you peace of mind as you finalize your vehicle’s documentation.