Tennessee Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in Tennessee?

Tennessee uses the term temporary operation permit for its short-term vehicle credential for consumers. Licensed dealers issue a separate credential, printed on demand, called a “dealer drive-out tag” through the state’s EZ Tag program.

Both permits allow highway operation while the buyer awaits permanent registration. County clerks issue temporary operation permits; licensed dealers issue drive-out tags at the point of sale. The Department of Revenue oversees both programs.

Temporary operation permits are paper documents printed on demand through the TNClerk system. Dealer drive-out tags are also printed at the dealership. Both must be placed on the rear of the vehicle.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Tennessee?

A county clerk may issue one extension of a temporary operation permit for an additional period with written permission from the commissioner according to T.C.A. § 55-4-115(a)(2). Dealer drive-out tags cannot be extended.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Tennessee?

• A licensed dealer must issue a dealer drive-out tag at the point of sale for the buyer to operate the vehicle until permanent plates arrive.
• A buyer in a private (casual and isolated) sale needs a temporary operation permit from the county clerk to transport the vehicle for registration according to T.C.A. § 55-4-115(a)(1).
• A non-resident purchasing a vehicle in Tennessee may obtain a temporary operation permit for transporting it out of state.
• Licensed transporters must have a transporter/manufacturer plate (class “DL”) when moving vehicles between dealers, rail yards, or body shops according to T.C.A. § 55-4-226(c).
• Non-resident freight carriers entering Tennessee with vehicles over 26,000 pounds must have a trip permit according to T.C.A. § 55-4-115(b).

How to Get a Temporary License Plate in Tennessee?

1. Gather ownership documents: title, notarized bill of sale, or dealer invoice, proof of insurance, and a valid driver’s license.
2. For dealer purchases, the dealer prints the drive-out tag at the point of sale through the EZ Tag program.
3. For private sales or title issues, visit your local county clerk with a completed application and supporting documents.
4. Pay the applicable fee at the county clerk’s counter.
5. Receive the printed permit at the counter and attach it to the rear of the vehicle before driving.

The official form is the Application for Temporary Operation Permit from the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Tennessee?

County clerks retain $4.50 of the $10 fee for a temporary operation permit; the remainder goes to the state. The state fee for a dealer drive-out tag is fixed, but the EZ Tag processing fee varies by provider.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Tennessee?

No. Tennessee does not sell temporary operation permits or dealer drive-out tags to consumers online.

Dealers print drive-out tags electronically through the EZ Tag program at the point of sale. The buyer receives the tag before leaving the lot.

For private sales or title delays, the applicant must appear at the county clerk’s office in person with the required documents and payment.

For dealer purchases, the dealership handles everything at closing; for all other cases, the only route is the county clerk’s office.

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

Operating with an expired temporary operation permit is a Class C misdemeanor according to T.C.A. § 55-4-115(a)(3). The arresting officer may impound the vehicle until the owner completes proper registration.