Navigating vehicle registration can be a complex process, and understanding the regulations surrounding temporary tags is essential for anyone purchasing a vehicle in Mississippi. This guide provides a clear and comprehensive overview of Mississippi’s temporary tag laws, ensuring both residents and non-residents can maintain compliance and avoid potential penalties. Whether you’ve acquired a vehicle from a licensed dealership or through a private sale, knowing the correct procedures for temporary vehicle operation is crucial for a seamless transition to permanent registration.
Understanding Mississippi’s Temporary Tag System
Mississippi’s Department of Revenue (DOR) issues specific guidelines for the issuance and use of temporary tags, often referred to as “drive-out tags” . It is important to differentiate between the various types, their validity periods, and the conditions under which they are issued, as these factors can vary significantly based on the vehicle’s source and the purchaser’s residency.
Types of Temporary Tags and Their Validity
| Tag Type | Issuing Entity | Validity Period | Typical Fee |
| Standard Dealer Tag | Licensed Dealer | 7 full working days | $5.00 |
| Rental Company Tag | Licensed Dealer | 30 full working days | $5.00 |
| In-Transit Tag | Licensed Dealer | Movement for sale | $2.00 |
How to Get a Temporary Tag in Mississippi
The method for obtaining authorization to operate a newly acquired vehicle in Mississippi differs based on whether the purchase is made from a licensed dealer or a private seller.
Buying a Vehicle from a Licensed Dealer
If you purchase a vehicle from a licensed Mississippi motor vehicle dealer or automobile auction, the process for obtaining a temporary tag is typically integrated into the sales transaction:
1.Vehicle Purchase: Inform the dealer during the purchase process that you require a temporary tag.
2.Eligibility Confirmation: The dealer will confirm your eligibility, generally for non-residents or residents temporarily leaving the state .
3.Fee Payment: A nominal fee, typically Five Dollars ($5.00), will be paid to the dealer for the temporary tag .
4.Tag Issuance and Placement: The dealer will issue the physical temporary tag and ensure it is correctly displayed on the vehicle. The date written on the tag must match the day it is placed on your vehicle .
5.Receive Documentation: You will receive necessary documentation, such as a copy of the title application or bill of sale, which, along with the temporary tag, serves as legal authorization to operate the vehicle.
Private Vehicle Sales in Mississippi: 7-Day Grace Period Explained
For vehicles purchased from a private seller, Mississippi law does not provide a specific temporary tag . Instead, new owners are granted a seven (7) working day grace period to operate the vehicle while completing the permanent registration process . To legally utilize this grace period, you must:
- Complete the Sale and Obtain Title: Secure a properly signed-over vehicle title and a comprehensive Bill of Sale from the private seller. The Bill of Sale must include the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, year, purchase price, and the signatures of both buyer and seller.
- Secure Mississippi Insurance: Before operating the vehicle, you must obtain valid Mississippi automobile insurance and add the newly purchased vehicle to your policy.
- Carry Essential Documents: While operating the vehicle during this grace period, you must carry both the Bill of Sale and proof of Mississippi insurance with you at all times. These documents serve as your temporary authorization to drive the vehicle .
- Initiate Registration Promptly: It is imperative to visit your local County Tax Collector’s office within the seven working days (excluding the date of purchase) to begin the permanent registration process. Failure to do so will result in penalties .
How to Register Your Vehicle and Get Permanent Mississippi Tags
To obtain your permanent Mississippi license plates, you must visit the County Tax Collector’s office in your county of residence. The process typically involves:
- Presenting the vehicle title, properly signed over to you.
- Providing a Bill of Sale.
- Showing proof of Mississippi insurance.
- Presenting a valid government-issued ID.
During registration, you will be required to pay various fees, including the privilege tax, ad valorem tax, registration fees, and a title fee, which is typically $9.00 .
New Residents: Individuals moving to Mississippi have a grace period of thirty (30) days to register their vehicle if they possess a current registration and valid license plate from their previous state . Failure to register within this period will incur standard late penalties and an additional $250 penalty .
Penalties for Driving Without Proper Registration in Mississippi
Failure to comply with Mississippi’s temporary tag and vehicle registration laws can lead to significant penalties:
Late Registration Penalties: If you fail to register your vehicle within the stipulated grace period, a 5% penalty is assessed on the 16th day, with an additional 5% for each subsequent 30 days, up to a maximum of 25% .
Dealer Penalties: Any motor vehicle dealer or automobile auction found using a temporary tag for an unauthorized purpose can face a misdemeanor charge, a fine of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00), and a one-year suspension of their temporary tag privileges .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, Mississippi law does not provide a specific temporary tag for private sales. Instead, you have a seven (7) working day grace period to operate the vehicle with a Bill of Sale and proof of Mississippi insurance while you complete the permanent registration.
A dealer-issued temporary tag is valid for seven (7) full working days, exclusive of the date of purchase.
New residents have thirty (30) days to register their vehicle(s) after moving to Mississippi, provided they have a current registration and valid license plate from their previous state . Failure to do so will result in standard late penalties and an additional $250 penalty.
Conclusion
Understanding Mississippi’s temporary tag and vehicle registration regulations is crucial for a smooth and compliant vehicle ownership experience. By adhering to the guidelines for dealer-issued tags and the 7-day grace period for private sales, and by promptly completing permanent registration, vehicle owners can avoid unnecessary penalties and ensure legal operation on Mississippi roads. Always refer to the official Mississippi Department of Revenue resources for the most current and detailed information.
Add Comment