Colorado Temporary License Plates: When You Need One and How To Get One


in Ownership
Colorado highway

Source: Pixabay

If you invest in a new car, you need a license plate before you can drive. Unfortunately, it can take a long time for a new registration to arrive in the mail. In Colorado, you can’t hit the road without plates. If you need to drive but don’t have proof of ownership, you might turn to a Colorado temporary license plate. What do temporary licenses require in Colorado?

Read on to learn more about a Colorado temporary license plate and everything that comes with them. We’ll discuss when you might need one, the requirements for the limited plate, and how long the plates are valid on a vehicle. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to drive in this mountainous state. Let’s get started.

When Do You Need Temporary License Plates in Colorado?

First, let’s talk about a Colorado temporary license plate and what you might need for one of these items in the state. If you could invest in a permanent plate, why get a temporary one? There are plenty of reasons for this need in the state. Let’s explore a few of the most common.

According to dirtlegal.com, here are a few reasons why you might find yourself in need of temporary plates:

  • You have the title to the vehicle, but the plates haven’t come in yet.
  • You need to drive the car to an inspection.
  • You’re in the process of importing a vehicle.
  • You’re moving from out of state.

These call for Colorado temporary license plates.

This slip of paper is temporary proof that you own the vehicle you’re driving. It’s a requirement - you can’t hit the road without one. Limited tags should be in the back of your mind, whether you bought a new car or are shifting to a new state.


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How Can You Get a Colorado Temporary Plate?

If you want a Colorado temporary license plate, it’s critical to follow the process. You will go through a process in which you will display various proof of ownership to demonstrate you are worthy of the temporary plates.

According to jeffco.us, here are the process and requirements for a temporary plate in Colorado:

  • The owner must demonstrate proof of purchase, whether that’s the title, dealer invoice, or bill of sale.
  • The owner must show proof of insurance, which cannot be in a previous owner’s name or on another vehicle.
  • The owner must provide a verifiable identification to show who they are for legal matters.
  • The owner must show proof of payment or an applicable sales tax.

These items show that the temporary plates are justified, and the owner did not steal the car.

Although some locations can vary with requirements, these are the staples with getting your hands on a temporary license. You may also fill out some paperwork for the company to help them produce an accurate temporary plate for your vehicle.

How Long Are Temporary Plates Good For in Colorado?

As with any temporary item, there is a limit to how long the proof of ownership will last. If you’re interested in a Colorado limited license plate, it’s critical to consider this item before it’s too late. How long are temporary plates valid in Colorado?

Most temporary plates in Colorado are valid for thirty days in the state. They can be issued up to sixty days after purchasing a vehicle, though extensions allow for ninety-day options. These are not common.

Once the temporary plate expires, there is no grace period. You can’t extend the protection offered by the temporary plates. It’s critical to stay on top of the deadline to ensure you get your permanent plates in time to meet the end.


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What is the Cost of Temporary Plates in Colorado?

If you want a temporary plate in Colorado, you will need to pay a small fee. This value goes towards the limited plate and other critical items for the DMV.

For a Colorado temporary license plate, you can expect to pay $7.08 per temporary plate. This number covers all the fees and taxes included in the limited registration. It’s a straightforward fee that is accessible to almost anyone.

The price for a temporary plate in Colorado is less than ten dollars, so anyone should be able to afford it. Ensure you understand the cost before seeking a temporary plate for your vehicle

Can You Drive a Car Without a License Plate in Colorado?

It might seem tempting to skip the entire process of a Colorado temporary license plate. There are many items to consider, many steps to follow, and several price points. It might seem easier to drive the vehicle until the permanent plates arrive. But - can you? Is it legal to drive a car without a license plate in Colorado? 

Although it might seem tempting to hit the road without a license plate in Colorado, it’s not worth the time. It’s illegal to drive without a license plate in Colorado. You can get in serious trouble for avoiding this legal definition in the state.

If you are pulled over without a plate, there are many potential consequences. You could be fined and, in more drastic cases, get arrested.


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Conclusion

If you want to hit the road but don’t have a permanent license plate, you need a Colorado temporary license plate. This item will provide access to a temporary plate for thirty days, which cannot be renewed or extended after this time. It’s affordable to invest in a Colorado temporary license plate for your vehicle while you wait.

We hope this information was helpful! There’s a lot to consider with a temporary license plate, from the steps needed to get one to the fees that come with it. Consider these to ensure you make the best choices before your permanent license plate can fasten to your vehicle. The more you know, the better. Soon, you’ll be on the road.



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