In Arkansas, driving a newly purchased vehicle without a license plate—even with a “Bill of Sale” in the window—is a high-risk gamble that often leads to a citation. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) has significantly updated its temporary tag laws, extending the standard validity period and strictly digitizing the “preprinted” tag database to curb misuse.
Whether you bought your car from a Little Rock dealership or a private seller in Fayetteville, this guide outlines the 60-day rule, the latest 2026 fees, and how to stay legal while awaiting your permanent metal plates.
Understanding the “60-Day Rule” for Arkansas Vehicle Registration
For years, Arkansas required vehicles to be registered within 30 days. However, recent legislation (Act 41) has officially extended the registration and temporary tag window.
- Validity Period: In 2026, all original temporary “buyer’s tags” are valid for 60 calendar days.
- The Grace Period: You must apply for your permanent title and registration before this 60-day window expires. Operating a vehicle with an expired paper tag now carries a mandatory $100.00 fine for the first offense and $250.00 for subsequent violations.
- Out-of-State Transfers: If you are a new resident, you also have 60 days to complete an Arkansas drivers license transfer and register your vehicle locally.
Where and How to Obtain Your Arkansas Temporary Tag
In 2026, Arkansas uses a centralized “Temporary Tag Database.” This means every paper tag issued is electronically linked to your VIN and is visible to law enforcement in real-time.
Option A: Licensed Dealerships (Most Common)
If you buy from a dealer, they are legally required to issue you a preprinted paper buyer’s tag at the point of sale.
- The Process: The dealer prints the tag, which includes the VIN, expiration date, and a specific “security sticker.”
- Fee: Dealers typically charge a small administrative fee for this service, but the state-mandated tag fee is capped at $5.50.
Option B: Private Party Sales (Revenue Office)
If you buy a car from an individual, you do not automatically get a temporary tag. You must visit a State Revenue Office to obtain one.
- The 10-Day Rule: You must obtain your temporary tag within 10 calendar days of a private purchase.
- Requirements: You must present a signed Bill of Sale and proof of Arkansas-compliant liability insurance. To ensure your new vehicle is associated with your correct home, you should verify your Arkansas DMV address change status if you have recently moved.
Mandatory Documentation Checklist for Temporary Tags
To secure a tag in 2026, the DFA requires original or high-resolution digital copies of the following:
- Bill of Sale: Must include the purchase price, VIN, and signatures from both the buyer and seller.
- Proof of Insurance: Arkansas requires minimum liability coverage. The policy must specifically list the VIN of the new vehicle.
- Assessment Proof: In Arkansas, you cannot register a vehicle (or sometimes renew a tag) without proof that the vehicle has been “assessed” for personal property taxes in your county.
- Identity: A valid state ID or driver’s license. If you are currently suspended, you must reinstate your Arkansas license before you can legally operate the vehicle, though you can still title it in your name.
Arkansas Temporary Tag Fee Summary and Extensions
| Item | 2026 Fee | Notes |
| Original 60-Day Tag | $5.50 | Issued at dealership or Revenue Office |
| Additional 30-Day Extension | $5.50 | Only if lien release is delayed (SB 561) |
| Late Registration Fee | $25.00 | Per month (capped at $100.00) |
| Replacement Tag | $1.00 | If original is damaged or stolen |
Extensions and Hardship Scenarios
A common 2026 pain point is a delay in receiving a title from a lienholder. Under Senate Bill 561, Arkansas now allows for a one-time 30-day extension of a temporary tag if you can prove the permanent plates haven’t been issued due to circumstances outside your control.
- Eligibility: You must apply for this extension before the original 60-day tag expires.
- Hardship Permits: If your license is suspended but you need to drive the newly tagged vehicle for work, you must apply for a hardship license in Arkansas through the Driver Control office.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Arkansas does not allow residents to print their own tags at home. All valid Arkansas temp tags must be preprinted on specific DFA-approved moisture-resistant paper and covered by a translucent material.
Yes. An Arkansas 60-day buyer’s tag is legally recognized in all 50 states as long as it is unexpired and clearly visible. However, you should carry your Bill of Sale and Insurance card as backup proof of ownership.
You can obtain the tag to register the vehicle, but you cannot legally drive it. You must check your Arkansas driving record to see what steps are needed to return to “Active” status.
Conclusion
Securing an Arkansas temporary tag in 2026 provides a 60-day legal window to finalize your taxes and permanent registration. By ensuring you have a VIN-specific insurance policy and a signed Bill of Sale within 10 days of a private purchase, you avoid the $100–$250 expired tag fines. Your next step should be to schedule an Arkansas DMV appointment at your local revenue office to finalize your permanent metal plates.
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