There are multiple ways to purchase a temporary license plate. The amount of paperwork will vary depending on which one you need. The most common types of temporary license plates are listed below. We can help you with any one of our authorized offices or you can go to the MVD.
- 3 Day Restricted Use Permit: This permit lasts for only 72 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. Typically, people apply for this permit just to get minimal tests done on their car like emissions.
- 30 Day General Use Permit: You can apply for this at any MVD or an authorized third-party office with proof of ownership or proof of a physical inspection.
- 90 Day Resident Permit: you can apply for this at any MVD or an authorized third-party office with proof of ownership or proof of a physical inspection.
- 90 Day Non-Resident Permit: you can apply for this at any MVD or an authorized third third-party office with your out-of-state identification and the dealer invoice or assigned title.
What’s the Difference Between a 3 Day, 30 Day, and a 90 Day Permit?
Well, it really comes down to where you’re from.
If you reside in Arizona you’ll need a 3 Day or 90 Day permit. If you are not an Arizona resident then a 30 Day General Use Permit or a 90 Day Non-Resident Permit is what you need.
3 Day Restricted Permit (Resident)
The 3 Day Restricted Use Permit is the shortest permit that is obtainable in Arizona. It is only valid inside Arizona State lines. It allows you to drive for any of the following reasons inside Arizona.
- to vehicle inspection centers
- to your emissions testing
- to apply for your title or registration
- for vehicle repair to comply with emissions or inspection
It’s important to remember that you can only purchase three 3 Day Permits for any vehicle in a 12 month period. This permit can be requested by anyone.
90 Day Resident Permit (Resident)
This permit is only an option for residents of Arizona. You can only purchase two in a 12 month period. It is valid out of state and it has no movement restrictions.
You can’t get a 90 day permit if you can’t show proof of ownership, if you’re using a commercial vehicle, or if your vehicle’s gross weight is more than 26,000 pounds.
30 Day General Use Permit (Non-Resident)
A 30 Day General Use Permit allows you to travel in an unregistered vehicle. It has no movement restrictions or residency requirements and it is valid out-of-state. An interesting thing about this permit is that it can only be requested once for an individual vehicle every 12 months. Meaning that, if you purchase a 30 day permit you will not be able to purchase another one for 12 months.
90 Day Non-Resident Permit
A 90 Day Non-Resident Permit allows you to purchase a vehicle in Arizona and then drive it out of state to have it registered.
You can only purchase it once in a 12 month period
When You Don’t Need A Temporary License Plate
If your current license plate is damaged, deteriorated, and/or unreadable it will be replaced with the same numbers and letters for a small fee. If it has been lost or stolen then it will be replaced with new numbers and letters. You can get replacements at the MVD or an authorized third-party office. You would not need a temporary license plate in that instance.
If you’re buying a car then he will be sent a temporary registration plate that will allow the vehicle to be operated for any purpose which is valid for 45 days.
And just so you know, it is illegal to drive without a rear plate in any of the 50 states. We definitely don’t recommend that!
As trusted leaders in Arizona it’s our business to assist you with any vehicle paperwork you might need. We look forward to hearing from you.
