Georgia Temporary License Plate

What Is a Temporary License Plate in Georgia?

In Georgia, a short-term vehicle permit is called a “Temporary Operating Permit” (TOP). The paper permit allows highway travel while the buyer awaits permanent registration and license plate issuance through the Georgia Department of Revenue.

Licensed Georgia dealers issue TOPs at the point of sale through the state’s electronic system. County tag offices issue TOPs in cases of license plate inventory delays, private purchases with existing liens, and dealer TOP extensions. The TOP is printed on paper and affixed to the rear of the vehicle.

What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Georgia?

Only one Class D extension may be issued beyond the initial dealer TOP. The buyer must submit Form T-226 and surrender the expired dealer TOP for destruction.

When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Georgia?

• A buyer purchasing from a licensed Georgia dealer receives a Class A Temporary Operating Permit at the point of sale before visiting the county tag office for permanent registration.
• A buyer purchasing a specialty or standard license plate not stocked at the county tag office receives a Class B TOP while the Georgia DOR manufactures and ships the license plate.
• A buyer from a private party purchasing a vehicle with an existing lien on the Georgia title requires a Class C TOP from the county tag office.
• A buyer whose dealer has not completed the title transfer within five days after the initial TOP expires may request a Class D extension at the county tag office.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate in Georgia?

1. Gather your Georgia driver’s license or ID, valid Georgia liability insurance, bill of sale or dealer invoice, and emissions compliance proof if required by your county.
2. For dealer purchases, the dealer prints the TOP through the DRIVES electronic system at the point of sale.
3. For county-issued TOPs, visit your county tag office with your documents.
4. No fee is charged for any class of Temporary Operating Permit.
5. Receive the paper TOP at the counter and place it on the rear of the vehicle.

DRIVES e-Services Portal processes dealer-side TOP transactions electronically.

How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Georgia?

Georgia does not charge a fee for any Temporary Operating Permit, as confirmed by the DOR fee schedule.

How to Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Georgia?

No. Georgia does not issue Temporary Operating Permits to consumers online.

Dealers generate TOPs electronically through the DRIVES system at the point of sale. Consumers cannot directly access this system. County tag offices issue all other classes of TOPs only in person.

Georgia has 159 county tag offices. The tax commissioner of each county handles vehicle registration for residents of that county.

For dealer purchases, the dealer handles the TOP; for all other situations, visit your county tag office in person.

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

Operating with an expired or unauthorized TOP is an offense under O.C.G.A. §40-2-8. Dealers cannot issue a replacement or second TOP for the same vehicle.