Oklahoma Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in Oklahoma?

The Oklahoma law requires the dealer to attach a temporary license plate to every sold vehicle before the buyer drives it off the premises. The plate bridges the gap between the sale and full registration with Service Oklahoma.

Licensed new vehicle dealers, licensed used vehicle dealers, Service Oklahoma, licensed operators (tag agents), and the Oklahoma Corporation issue different classes of permits. The issuing authority depends on the type of transaction and the use of the vehicle.

Temporary license plates for new vehicles are made of waterproof plastic, sized to match standard Oklahoma plates. Temporary license plates for used vehicles are made of fibrous paper and are placed on the rear window.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Oklahoma?

Neither the temporary license plate for a new vehicle nor for a used one allows for extension or reissuance. The transit plate expires on December 31 each year and requires a new application for renewal.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Oklahoma?

• A new vehicle dealer must place a temporary license plate on the vehicle upon delivery according to 47 O.S. § 1137.3.
• A used vehicle dealer must attach a temporary license plate to every sold used vehicle to a retail or non-resident buyer according to 47 O.S. § 1137.1.
• Licensed carriers transporting vehicles or mobile homes on Oklahoma highways must have a transit plate (K-tag).
• Non-residents operating commercial vehicles in Oklahoma for hire must have a temporary commercial permit or a 72-hour trip permit.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate in Oklahoma?

1. Purchase a vehicle from a licensed dealer in Oklahoma; the dealer attaches the temporary plate upon delivery.
2. For a private sale, pre-register the vehicle within two business days via the Navigate portal or at a licensed operator location.
3. Receive pre-registration stickers and a metal plate by mail from the licensed operator chosen by the dealer or buyer.
4. Attach the metal plate and stickers to the vehicle within the established time frame.
5. Complete full title transfer, excise tax payment, and registration at a licensed operator or at the main office of Service Oklahoma within two months of purchase.

The Ready, Set, Tag page details each step according to the Mason Tritt Act.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Oklahoma?

Pre-registration according to the Mason Tritt Act has no fee. Full registration, excise tax, and title fees apply later according to the Service Oklahoma fee schedule.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Oklahoma?

Partially. Dealer-issued temporary plates are processed at the point of sale, not online by the buyer.

Buyers or sellers of private sales can pre-register the vehicle online through the Navigate portal using a credit or debit card. Stickers and a metal plate are mailed from the chosen licensed operator.

The Corporation sells a 72-hour commercial trip permit online through its permit application. All other temporary permits require an in-person visit to Service Oklahoma or a licensed operator.

For consumer purchases, the dealer processes the temporary plate; Navigate covers the private sale route.

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

Operating after the expiration of a temporary plate incurs a fine of $1 for each day overdue, capped at $100. Driving without a valid plate is an offense punishable by a fine of up to $500 according to 47 O.S. § 1151.