You just bought a truck — maybe a killer deal from another state — and now you’re wondering: Can I legally drive it home without plates? The answer is… it depends, but in most cases, you’ll need to plan ahead to avoid tickets, fines, or worse.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Happens If You Drive Without Plates?
Driving without plates is a major red flag for law enforcement. Even if you just bought the vehicle, getting pulled over without registration can lead to:
-
A traffic ticket (sometimes hundreds of dollars)
-
Possible impoundment of the truck
-
Delays getting home
-
A whole lot of stress you don’t need
Some buyers try to tape the bill of sale to the back window or explain the situation to officers. That might work—but it’s a gamble, and every state has different rules.
How to Drive a Vehicle You Just Bought Across State Lines (Legally)
The safest bet? Get a temporary tag or transit permit. Most states offer short-term registration for exactly this situation.
-
Where to get it: The DMV (or equivalent agency) in the state where you bought the truck
-
What you’ll need: Proof of ownership (like the bill of sale), ID, insurance, and possibly the signed title
-
How long it lasts: Usually 3–30 days, depending on the state
This tag gives you legal permission to drive the vehicle while you wait to register it in your home state.
Don’t Forget Insurance
Whether or not you have plates, you’ll need active insurance before hitting the road. Call your insurer and either:
-
Add the truck to your current policy
-
Get a binder or temporary policy just for the drive home
Driving without insurance? That’s a hard no — especially across state lines.
Bottom Line
Driving a vehicle you just bought without plates is a legal gray area at best and a risky move at worst.
If you’re crossing state lines, avoid the headache: get a temporary tag, show proof of insurance, and drive home stress-free.
Need help finding temporary tag info for your state? We’ve got your back — just ask.
Save 20-50% on your car insurance today!
|
|