At Dirt Legal, we specialize in simplifying what most people find confusing. We register vehicles that others can’t, often using Montana LLCs to bypass restrictive in-state regulations. Whether it’s your old motorcycle or your new custom build, we’ve got the know-how to get you on the road fast and compliant.
Temp Tag 101: Temporary License Plates Explained
There are various circumstances under which an individual may need to obtain a temporary tag, providing a necessary solution for vehicle use prior to the issuance of a permanent registration.
Dirt Legal makes it easy to get your car registered and road-ready, avoiding DMV delays and paperwork hassles.
Read: Temp Tag 101: Temporary License Plates Explained
How to Get a Title for an Old Motorcycle
Titling an old motorcycle can be tricky—especially if you’ve lost the original title or never had one. The good news? We can get it done.
You may be able to get a bonded title using just a bill of sale and VIN inspection—particularly if you’re titling through Montana—provided the vehicle value is supported by a pricing guide like NADA and a surety bond is submitted, according to the Montana Title Manual, Section Break/Bond Titles.
Is the Temporary License Plate Number the Same as the Permanent One?
No. A temporary license plate number is a short-term identifier used while you wait for your permanent plates, and it will not match your final plate number.
Temporary tags have their own unique numbers and expiration dates and are meant for interim use during title or registration processing, according to the South Dakota Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division.
Temporary Registration Plate
A temporary registration plate allows street-ready road use while your full title and registration are being processed. It’s often issued at the time of sale or during an out-of-state transfer.
Many states—including South Dakota and Montana—offer 30-day temporary permits that allow vehicles to be driven while paperwork is completed, according to the South Dakota DMV Temporary Permit Guidelines.
Can I Drive with a Temporary License Plate?
Yes—you can drive with a temporary license plate, as long as it’s valid and issued by a DMV or approved agency.
Do I Need a Temporary License Plate?
In most cases, yes. You’ll need a temporary license plate if you’re driving a newly purchased vehicle, transferring ownership, or waiting on out-of-state registration.
Temporary tags are a required step in most DMV workflows when a vehicle lacks current registration, according to the Montana Title Manual, Title Transfers Section.
FAQ: Temporary Tags & Titles
Q: How long do temporary plates last?
A: It depends on the issuing state. Montana offers 40-day temp tags, while South Dakota generally offers 30-day tags. Dirt Legal ensures you get the max allowed duration based on your situation.
Q: Can I renew a temporary license plate?
A: In most cases, no. Temporary plates are single-use while you wait on permanent registration. If your tag expires and you’re still waiting, contact us immediately so we can assist.
Q: Can I get a temp tag without a title?
A: It depends. Some states require proof of ownership like a bill of sale or VIN inspection. We guide you through what’s needed for your unique case, and may even be able to issue a bonded title.
Q: Does Dirt Legal offer temp tags with every service?
A: No, but if your registration requires time to process, we’ll let you know and offer a temp tag when appropriate. Our team handles the legwork—you just drive.
Why Dirt Legal?
Most DMVs want you to follow a rigid set of rules. We follow the law—but we also find the workaround that works for you. Whether you’re restoring a motorcycle, importing a classic, or registering a UTV with no title, Dirt Legal is your fastest path to a plate.
Need a title? Need a tag? Need to drive? We’ve got it handled.
