How to Get a Temporary Tag in Pennsylvania (Online & In-Person)

Buying a vehicle in Pennsylvania means you need a valid license plate before you can legally drive it off the lot or out of state. Whether you are waiting for a standard state issue or for a specially ordered personalized metal plate to be manufactured, a temporary tag bridges the gap. While you cannot print a temporary tag directly from PennDOT’s public website yourself, authorized online agents and dealerships can process and issue them for you immediately.

This guide breaks down exactly how to get your temporary tag, what it costs, and the strict timelines you need to follow to keep your vehicle street-legal.

Requirements for Getting a Temporary Tag in Pennsylvania

Before applying for a temporary tag, you must ensure your driving privileges and insurance are in good standing. PennDOT will block registration attempts if your license is invalid or suspended.

• Valid Identification: You need a current PA driver’s license or ID
• Active Insurance: You must provide proof of auto insurance that meets Pennsylvania’s minimum liability requirements.
• Vehicle Documentation: You need the signed-over title (for private sales) or the manufacturer’s certificate of origin (for new cars), along with a bill of sale or odometer disclosure if applicable.

While temporary tags are handled quickly by local agents, complex title transfers or specific permanent registration issues might still require booking an in-person visit at a PennDOT Driver License Center.

Steps to Get a Temporary Plate in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania uses a decentralized system, meaning you must go through an approved third party rather than a direct state portal.

1. Locate an Authorized Agent: Find a licensed PennDOT full agent, notary service, or dealership that offers online tag processing.
2. Submit Your Documents: Provide your valid ID, proof of insurance, and the correctly assigned vehicle title.
3. Pay the Required Fees: Pay the standard state registration fees plus the agent’s service fee.
4. Receive Your Tag: The agent will process the transaction through PennDOT’s system and instantly issue a temporary registration card and plate.

How Much Does a PA Temporary Tag Cost?

Temporary tags are not free, and their duration depends entirely on the nature of your vehicle purchase.

Tag Type	Typical Validity	Common Use Case	Estimated Cost
Standard Temporary Plate	90 Days	In-state vehicle purchases waiting for permanent PennDOT plates.	Standard PA Title & Reg Fees + Agent Fee
In-Transit Tag	60 Days	Out-of-state residents buying a vehicle in PA to drive to their home state.	State In-Transit Fee + Agent Fee

Note: While PennDOT sets the baseline title and registration fees, the administrative service fees are unregulated by the state and vary by business. Always ask for the total out-of-pocket cost before handing over your paperwork.

Pennsylvania Temporary Tag Rules and Expiration Laws

Pennsylvania strictly enforces temporary tag regulations. To avoid traffic stops or fines, you must adhere to the following rules:

• No Extensions: A temporary tag cannot be renewed or extended once it expires. If your permanent plate hasn’t arrived by day 89, you must contact the agent who issued the tag or PennDOT directly to investigate the delay.
• Proper Display: The temporary plate must be securely fastened to the rear of the vehicle, completely visible, and illuminated at night. Do not place it in the rear window if it is heavily tinted.
• Carry the Card: You must keep the temporary registration card in the vehicle at all times. Law enforcement relies on this specific document to verify the expiration date, insurance, and ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Securing a temporary tag in Pennsylvania is a straightforward process when handled through an authorized PennDOT agent. By preparing your documents, verifying your license status beforehand, and understanding the strict 60- or 90-day deadlines, you can get your new vehicle legally on the road without unnecessary bureaucratic delays.