What Utah temporary registration is and when you need it

A temporary registration in Utah is a short-term permit that lets you drive a vehicle legally while you wait for your permanent registration plates and documents to arrive. The Utah Division of Motor Vehicles issues temporary registrations for 30 days, and you display it in your vehicle's rear window instead of a license plate.

You need a temporary registration when you buy a new or used vehicle and haven't yet received your permanent plates from the DMV. You also get one if you're transferring registration from another state and need to drive before the Utah plates are ready. Some people use temporary registrations when they're waiting for a replacement registration after losing or damaging their plates.

Without a temporary registration, you cannot legally drive the vehicle on Utah roads, even if you've paid for registration and submitted all required documents. Law enforcement can stop you for driving without valid registration, and you may face a citation.

Key Takeaways

  • Utah temporary registrations last 30 days and are issued at the time of registration purchase, either in person or online through the DMV website.
  • You can get a temporary registration when buying a vehicle, transferring registration from another state, or replacing lost or damaged plates.
  • The temporary registration is a printed document you tape to your rear window; it is not a license plate.
  • If your temporary registration expires before your permanent plates arrive, you must contact the DMV to request an extension.
  • The cost of a temporary registration is included in your registration fee and does not cost extra.

How to get a temporary registration when you buy a vehicle

When you purchase a vehicle in Utah, the dealer or private seller typically handles the registration paperwork for you. If you buy from a licensed dealer, they often submit your registration process to the DMV on your behalf and provide you with a temporary registration document on the spot. You should receive a printed temporary registration that you tape to the inside of your rear window before driving off the lot.

If you buy from a private seller, you are responsible for registering the vehicle yourself. You can do this online through the Utah DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. When you complete the registration online or in person, the DMV will issue your temporary registration when ready. If you register by mail, the temporary registration will arrive with your process confirmation.

Keep the temporary registration visible at all times while driving. Place it on the inside of your rear window so it faces outward and is clearly readable from behind the vehicle. Do not remove it until your permanent plates arrive and you install them on your vehicle.

Getting a temporary registration for out-of-state vehicles

If you're moving to Utah or buying a vehicle registered in another state, you must register it in Utah within 60 days of establishing residency or purchasing the vehicle. During this process, you can obtain a temporary registration to drive legally while waiting for your Utah plates.

Start by gathering your out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease). Submit your registration process to the Utah DMV online, by mail, or in person. The DMV will issue a temporary registration valid for 30 days. Your permanent Utah plates will be mailed to you separately, usually within two to four weeks.

If you're transferring from a state that allows registration transfers without a new title, the process is faster. However, some states require a title transfer, which can add time. Check with the Utah DMV about your specific state's requirements before you start the process.

What to do if your temporary registration expires

A temporary registration in Utah is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. If your permanent plates have not arrived by the time your temporary registration expires, you must contact the Utah DMV before the expiration date to request an extension.

Call the DMV at the phone number on your registration documents, or visit a local DMV office in person. Explain that your permanent plates have not yet arrived and request a 30-day extension. The DMV can usually grant one extension without additional cost. Provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and registration confirmation number so the DMV can locate your file quickly.

Do not drive with an expired temporary registration. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you will be cited for driving without valid registration. If your plates are significantly delayed, the DMV can investigate the status of your order and may be able to expedite delivery or issue a second extension in rare cases.

Displaying your temporary registration correctly

Utah law requires that your temporary registration be displayed in a specific way. Print or write the temporary registration document clearly and tape it to the inside of your rear window so that it is visible from outside the vehicle. The document must be readable and not obscured by tint, dirt, or other obstructions.

Position the temporary registration in the lower right or lower left corner of the rear window, where it will not obstruct your view while driving. Make sure the date of expiration is clearly visible. If your temporary registration becomes damaged, faded, or illegible, contact the DMV for a replacement before driving the vehicle again.

Once your permanent plates arrive, remove the temporary registration from your window and install the plates on the front and rear of your vehicle (or rear only if your vehicle is a motorcycle or trailer). You can then discard the temporary registration.

Costs and what's included in your registration fee

The temporary registration in Utah does not cost extra. The fee is included in your vehicle registration fee, which varies based on the vehicle's age, weight, and type. When you pay for registration, you are paying for both the temporary registration and the permanent plates and documents that will arrive later.

Registration fees in Utah depend on several factors. A new vehicle typically costs more to register than a used vehicle. Trucks and commercial vehicles may have different fees than passenger cars. Hybrid and electric vehicles may may have access to for reduced fees. The DMV website has a fee calculator where you can enter your vehicle information to see the exact cost before you register.

If you register online, you may pay by credit card or debit card. If you register in person or by mail, you can pay by check, money order, or cash (in person only). Keep your receipt as proof of payment and registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive out of state with a Utah temporary registration?

Yes, a Utah temporary registration is valid in all 50 states. However, some states have specific rules about how temporary registrations must be displayed. Before crossing state lines, check that your temporary registration is clearly visible and meets the display requirements of the states you'll be traveling through.

What if I lose my temporary registration before my plates arrive?

Contact the Utah DMV when ready and request a replacement. Bring your vehicle identification number and registration confirmation number. The DMV can issue a new temporary registration on the spot if you visit in person, or by mail if you call or submit a request online. Do not drive without a valid temporary registration or permanent plates.

How long does it take to receive permanent plates after registering?

Permanent plates typically arrive within two to four weeks of registration. Processing times can vary depending on mail delivery and DMV workload. If your plates have not arrived after four weeks, contact the DMV to check the status of your order. You can request an extension of your temporary registration while you wait.

Do I need a temporary registration if I'm just test-driving a vehicle?

No. Test drives at a dealership do not require a temporary registration because the vehicle remains under the dealer's registration. If you buy the vehicle, the dealer will provide a temporary registration before you leave the lot. Private test drives should be arranged with the seller's insurance and registration in place.

Can I renew my registration online if I have a temporary registration?

You cannot renew a temporary registration. A temporary registration is only valid for 30 days and is meant to be replaced by permanent plates. Once your permanent plates arrive, you will renew your registration through the normal renewal process, which typically happens every two years in Utah.