Temporary Vehicle Registration in Connecticut

Temporary vehicle registration in Connecticut allows residents and out-of-state vehicle owners to legally operate a vehicle for a limited period while completing permanent registration requirements. Whether you're awaiting documentation, conducting a vehicle inspection, or transporting a newly purchased vehicle, the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers temporary registration options to keep you compliant.

Who Needs Temporary Registration?

Temporary registrations are typically issued under the following circumstances:

• Purchasing a vehicle from a private seller or dealership and needing time to complete full registration.
• Out-of-state residents transporting a vehicle through Connecticut.
• Connecticut residents awaiting emissions testing or titling documentation.
• Moving vehicles that are not yet permanently registered.

Types of Temporary Registrations

The Connecticut DMV issues 10-day temporary registrations, primarily for in-state vehicle movement, and 60-day temporary registrations, often used for out-of-state purchases. These are not renewable and serve specific short-term legal purposes.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a temporary registration in Connecticut, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old or have a valid Connecticut driver’s license or ID.
• Own or lease the vehicle in question.
• Not have any unpaid property taxes, delinquent parking tickets, or other DMV blocks.

Required Documents

When applying for temporary registration, you will need:

• Proof of identity (e.g., Connecticut driver’s license)
• Proof of vehicle ownership (e.g., bill of sale, certificate of title)
• Insurance that meets Connecticut minimum liability requirements
• Payment for applicable fees
• A completed Form H-13B (Application for Registration and Certificate of Title)

If you're unsure about what's acceptable proof of ownership or identity, refer to How to Get a Driver's License in Connecticut for valid ID requirements.

How to Apply

Applications for temporary registration can be submitted:

• Online via the DMV’s online services portal: Connecticut DMV e-Services
• In-person at a DMV branch (by appointment only)
• Through licensed dealers (for dealership purchases)

Duration and Validity

Temporary registrations are valid for 10 or 60 days, depending on the situation:

• 10-day permits are ideal for short-term use within Connecticut.
• 60-day permits often apply when titling or registering out-of-state vehicles.

These registrations cannot be renewed or extended. Once expired, you must either register the vehicle permanently or discontinue use.

Costs and Fees

As of 2025, the standard temporary registration fee is $21 for a 10-day permit. Additional fees may apply depending on vehicle type or if a transit plate is needed.

To understand more about related DMV fees, check out Connecticut Speeding Laws and Penalties, which outlines potential fines and financial liabilities.

Insurance Requirements

Temporary registrations still require proof of valid insurance that meets state minimums:

• $25,000 for injury to one person
• $50,000 for injury to two or more people
• $25,000 for property damage

Proof must be presented at the time of application. Visit DUI Laws in Connecticut for more on how insurance ties into legal driving requirements.

Emissions and Safety Compliance

Some temporary registrations are issued pending emissions compliance. In such cases:

• You must schedule your emissions test before the temporary registration expires.
• The vehicle must pass emissions testing before permanent registration is granted.

For guidance on vehicle requirements and road legality, you might also consult Connecticut Right-of-Way Rules Explained.

Restrictions on Use

Temporary registrations come with usage restrictions:

• The vehicle must be used solely for purposes related to obtaining permanent registration.
• You cannot use the vehicle for commercial purposes unless otherwise noted.
• Driving beyond the scope of use could result in fines or vehicle impoundment.

A temporary registration is a practical solution while you finalize your vehicle’s paperwork or transportation. Ensure you follow all DMV guidelines and timelines to avoid penalties or interruptions in vehicle use. For further information or to start your application, visit the Connecticut DMV Official Site.