Temporary License Plates in Vermont
Overview
Temporary license plates allow you to legally operate an unregistered vehicle in Vermont while your permanent registration is processed. Below are the requirements, steps, validity period, fees, and key rules to stay compliant.
Eligibility
- Recent vehicle purchase or acquisition
- New Vermont residents transferring an out-of-state vehicle
- Permanent registration documents pending or in process
- Insurance documentation being finalized
Required Documentation
- Proof of ownership: Title, bill of sale, or MCO
- Insurance: Active Vermont auto policy meeting minimums
- ID: Valid driver’s license or state ID
- Residency: Proof of Vermont address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
How to Apply (5 Steps)
- Prepare documents — Gather all proofs before you go.
- Visit a DMV office — Temporary plates are not issued online/by mail.
- Complete Form VD-119 — Application for temporary registration.
- Pay fees — Cash, check, or card accepted.
- Receive plate — You’ll get the temp plate and temp registration.
Validity & Use
- Standard validity: 30 days from issue date
- Possible extension: One additional 30-day extension may be granted if processing delays occur
- Mounting: Securely and visibly install in the designated plate location
- Carry paperwork: Keep temporary registration documents in the vehicle
- Non-transferable: Temp plates are for one specific vehicle only
Fees (Typical)
| Category | Service | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Registration | Initial application | $10–$15 |
| Temporary Registration | Extension application | $10–$15 |
| Temporary Registration | Replacement temp plate | $10 |
| Permanent Registration | Passenger registration (typical) | $30–$75 (by vehicle) |
| Permanent Registration | Title processing | $35 |
| Permanent Registration | Plate issuance | $20 |
| Taxes | Purchase & Use Tax | 6% of purchase price |
Convert to Permanent Registration
- Submit all required ownership, identity, and insurance documents.
- Complete VIN verification and any required inspections.
- Pay all applicable registration, title, plate, and tax amounts.
- Finish before your temporary plate expires to avoid penalties.
Compliance & Penalties
- Maintain continuous insurance coverage during the temp period.
- Obey all Vermont traffic laws and display the temp plate properly.
- Expired temp plate = operating an unregistered vehicle (fines, possible impound).
Special Situations
- Dealers: Licensed dealers may issue temp plates at purchase.
- Out-of-state purchases: Standard temp process; extra title documents may be required.
- Military: Contact DMV for potential extensions or modified requirements.
Timeline (Typical)
| Phase | Duration | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Application processing | 15–30 minutes | Submit documents & payment at DMV |
| Temp plate validity | 30 days | Operate vehicle with temp documents onboard |
| Permanent registration | Before expiry | Complete full registration process |
Common Issues (and Fixes)
- Missing/incorrect docs: Double-check title, insurance, ID, and residency proofs.
- Processing delays: Submit complete, legible forms to avoid gaps if the temp expires.
- Plate not mounted: Install securely and keep temp registration in the vehicle.
DMV Contact
Vermont DMV — dmv.vermont.gov · (802) 828-2000 · 120 State Street, Montpelier, VT
Note: Requirements and fees can change. Verify on the official site before you apply.
Temporary plates are a short bridge to full registration—start your permanent process as soon as you receive the temp plate to avoid lapses or penalties.