Alabama Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in Alabama?

A temporary license plate in Alabama, often referred to as a “temporary tag,” is a temporary registration issued in the situations described in the state’s tag rules. Those rules say a designated agent may issue a temporary tag and a temporary registration receipt valid for 20 days from the date of issuance, and a licensing official may issue a temporary tag when a permanent plate cannot be issued immediately or when just cause exists.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate in Alabama?

To obtain a temporary tag or complete vehicle registration in Alabama, vehicle owners are directed to their local office. Under the state’s rules, a vehicle that requires a certificate of title must first be titled through a designated agent of the Alabama Department of Revenue. When a certificate of title is not required, and only registration is issued, the licensing official or deputy must inspect the vehicle and ownership documents each time ownership changes.

To complete the process described in the state’s rules, you may need to:

Apply for a title through a designated agent if the vehicle requires a title
Provide ownership documentation, such as a bill of sale, court order, properly assigned certificate of origin, or other documentation specified by ALDOR
Show evidence of Alabama liability insurance if coverage cannot be verified through the Online Insurance Verification System
Provide proof of federal heavy vehicle use tax if the vehicle is a truck or truck tractor with a gross vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or more

Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in Alabama?

Temporary tag and registration matters are handled through the county offices listed in the state’s office directory. The directory lists, among others, the following offices:

Jefferson County — 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., County Courthouse, Suite A-100, Birmingham, AL 35203; 205-325-5171
Mobile County — 3925 Michael Blvd., Suite F, Mobile, AL 36609; 251-574-8551
Madison County — 1918 N. Memorial Parkway, Huntsville, AL 35801; 256-532-3315

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Alabama?

The Alabama Department of Revenue’s fee form lists the temporary tag fee as $2.25 per tag. For county-specific costs connected with registration transactions, contact your local licensing office.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Alabama?

The Alabama Department of Revenue’s state page directs vehicle owners to find their local licensing officials’ offices and to see which counties allow online registration. For current local options, start with the state’s office directory.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Alabama?

The state’s official form and instructions describe temporary tags and temporary registrations for motor vehicles and, in some cases, for certain trailers, mobile homes, and boat-trailer situations. Only licensing officials may issue a temporary tag and temporary registration valid for more than 20 days.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Alabama?

According to the state’s registration FAQ, if someone trades a vehicle, they must keep a copy of the title application, bill of sale, or temporary tag in the vehicle before transferring the registration. Alabama’s tag rules also allow a licensing official to issue a temporary tag when a permanent plate cannot immediately be issued or when just cause exists.

Can I Get Insurance on a Car with Temporary Plates in Alabama?

The state’s insurance rules say that a motor vehicle must be covered by an Alabama liability insurance policy before registration. If liability insurance cannot be verified through the Online Insurance Verification System, the vehicle owner must provide evidence of insurance to the license plate issuing official. The insurance card is identified by the state as the most common evidence of current insurance.

What Paperwork Do I Need to Get a Temporary Tag in Alabama?

According to the state’s rules, the paperwork and supporting materials may include:

A title application, if the vehicle requires an Alabama certificate of title
Ownership documentation, such as a bill of sale, court order, properly assigned certificate of origin, or other documentation specified by ALDOR
Evidence of Alabama liability insurance if coverage cannot be verified electronically
Proof of federal heavy vehicle use tax, if applicable
The vehicle itself is for inspection when only registration is issued, and ownership has changed

How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Alabama?

Under the state’s tag rules, a designated agent may issue a temporary tag and temporary registration receipt valid for 20 days from the date of issuance. The same rules state that a licensing official may issue a temporary tag for periods not to exceed 60 days.

Can I Drive on an Expired Temp Temporary License Plate in Alabama?

No. Alabama’s 20-day rule gives the vehicle owner 20 calendar days from the date of purchase or acquisition to register the vehicle without penalty or interest charges. The state’s temporary-tag materials state that temporary tags are valid only for the period for which they are issued.