West Virginia License Plate Lookup /Temporary License Plate

West Virginia Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in West Virginia?

A temporary license plate in West Virginia is a provisional registration that allows newly purchased vehicles or vehicles from out of state to be driven legally while waiting for permanent registration. Temporary registration plates or markers are issued under specific conditions. They are governed by state regulations, including West Virginia Code § 17A-6B-10, which outlines the application process and the responsibilities of licensees who issue these plates.

How To Get a Temporary License Plate in West Virginia?

Obtaining a temporary license plate in West Virginia involves several steps:

Visit a West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles office or an authorized dealership.
Provide proof of ownership and valid insurance coverage.
Complete the necessary forms and pay the required fee to receive your temporary plate, valid for 30 days, with the possibility of a one-time extension.

Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in West Virginia?

Temporary license plates can be acquired from:

Local DMV offices across the state.
Licensed vehicle dealerships equipped to issue plates.
Online through the West Virginia DMV's Vehicle Registration System for eligible customers.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, the cost of a temporary license plate varies depending on the specific type and the purpose for which it is issued. Generally, the statutory fee for a temporary tag is $3.00. Additionally, license services may charge up to $5 for issuing a temporary registration plate or marker as stipulated by West Virginia Code § 17A-6B-10.

How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in West Virginia?

You can use the West Virginia Department of Transportation's Vehicle Registration System (VRS) to obtain a temporary license plate online in West Virginia. Here's how you can do it:

Visit the VRS Website: You're accessing the VRS portal.
Complete the Form: Please complete the necessary information regarding your vehicle purchase, including details like your vehicle's make, model, and VIN.
Print Your Temporary Tag: Once you complete the online form, you can immediately print your temporary tag. The system is designed to be fast and user-friendly, allowing you to complete a filing in less than five minutes without needing hand-written forms.
Payment: During this process, be prepared to pay any applicable fees online. A nominal fee is included in the standard cost for a temporary tag in West Virginia.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in West Virginia?

Several temporary license plates in West Virginia are issued to accommodate different needs, primarily managed through the state's Vehicle Registration System. Here are the primary types of temporary plates available:

Standard Temporary Tags: These are issued for newly purchased vehicles that have not been permanently registered. This type provides immediate legality for driving on public roads until the car can be fully registered with permanent plates.
Particular Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Temporary Registration: Aimed at vehicles that are not typically used on roads or are used for specific purposes that do not require full-time registration. These temporary tags are valid for up to 14 days and are suitable for vehicles used temporarily on the roads of West Virginia.
Temporary Registration Plates for Automobile Auctions: These plates are issued by automobile auction businesses to allow for the legal operation of vehicles immediately after the auction and before the completion of registration processes.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, a temporary license plate is required in several situations, primarily related to the transition period between vehicle purchase and registration. Here are some specific circumstances when a temporary license plate is necessary:

Vehicle Purchase: Temporary tags are issued to bridge the gap between the purchase of a vehicle and its registration. This allows new owners to legally drive the car while they complete the necessary registration processes.
Out-of-State Vehicle Purchase: For vehicles purchased out of state that need to be driven back to West Virginia, a temporary registration allows for legal operation on public roads until the car can be registered in West Virginia.
Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV): Temporary registrations are also provided for special purpose vehicles that will be used temporarily on West Virginia roads.

Can I Get Insurance on a Car With Temporary Plates in West Virginia?

Yes, you can get insurance on a car with temporary plates in West Virginia. West Virginia law requires all registered vehicles to be insured, including vehicles with temporary registration plates. When insuring a car with temporary plates, you'll need to provide the insurance company with the vehicle identification number (VIN) and other required details about the car.

What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in West Virginia?

To obtain a temporary tag in West Virginia, you'll need to complete specific paperwork to ensure legal compliance and registration of your vehicle for temporary use. Here are the primary documents and steps involved, based on information from the West Virginia Department of Transportation:

Vehicle Purchase Information: This includes details about the vehicle, such as make, model, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and proof of ownership.
Proof of Insurance: You must provide evidence of current insurance coverage for the vehicle.
Completed Application for Temporary Tags: This form can be completed online through the West Virginia Vehicle Registration System (VRS).
Payment for the Temporary Tag: A fee is associated with issuing a temporary tag. The exact cost can vary, so it's recommended that you check the latest fees on the WV Department of Transportation website.

After submitting the necessary information and fees, the temporary tag can be printed directly using the online system, eliminating the need for handwritten forms and manual submission.

How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in West Virginia?

In West Virginia Code §17A-6C-11, a temporary registration plate or marker in West Virginia is valid for a maximum of 90 days from the date of issuance or until one of the following events occurs:

The vehicle owner receives their annual registration plate from the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV).
The contract to purchase the vehicle in question is rescinded.

Can I Drive on an Expired Temporary License Plate in West Virginia?

No, driving on an expired temporary license plate in West Virginia is illegal. According to West Virginia Code §17A-3-1, all vehicles operating on public roads must display valid registration and license plates. Driving with an expired temporary license plate can result in fines and other penalties.