Just bought a vehicle in Colorado? Your paper plate gives you 60 days, one of the longer windows in the country. Here is how the system works, including Colorado’s unique transferable plate rule.
How Long Is a Colorado Temporary Plate Valid?
Colorado dealer-issued temporary plates are valid for 60 days from the date of issue. You must complete registration at your county clerk’s motor vehicle office before the plate expires.
| Situation | Plate Validity | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Dealer purchase | 60 days | Complete registration before day 60 |
| Private-party (no plate transfer) | None issued | Register at the county clerk before driving |
| New CO resident | Out-of-state reg. valid | Register within 90 days of establishing residency |
Who Issues Colorado Temporary Plates?
Licensed Colorado Dealers
Colorado dealers issue 60-day temporary plates at the point of sale. The plate is free; dealers may not charge a separate fee. Dealers are responsible for submitting your title application within 30 days of sale.
County Clerk Offices
For private-party purchases where no plate transfer occurs, the county clerk issues a temporary plate while registration is processed.
Private-Party Purchases, Colorado’s Unique Plate Transfer Rule
Colorado has a different rule from most states: plates are transferable between the owner and vehicle. A seller can transfer their existing plates to the buyer as part of the sale, with the appropriate paperwork. If the seller transfers their plates, you drive away with legal plates already on the vehicle.
If the seller keeps their plates, you must visit your county clerk’s motor vehicle office to register the vehicle and obtain a temporary plate before driving. Bring the following:
- Original title, properly signed and assigned, all liens released
- Bill of sale with purchase price, date, and odometer reading
- Valid Colorado driver’s license or state ID
- Proof of Colorado liability insurance
- Payment for title transfer, registration fees, and Specific Ownership Tax
Display Requirements
Colorado temporary plates are printed on synthetic, weather-resistant paper, but they must be displayed correctly to remain legally compliant:
Correct Placement
Mount the temporary tag securely inside the rear license plate bracket on the exterior of the vehicle. It must be fastened tightly so it does not flutter or tear away on the highway.
Do Not Place in the Window
Taping a temporary tag inside the rear window is completely illegal in Colorado, as window tints and glass glare obscure police visibility.
Do Not Use a Plate Frame
Avoid placing a decorative plastic frame over a paper temporary tag. Frames block critical vehicle information, barcodes, and registration expiration dates printed on the perimeter of the paper.
What If My Colorado Temp Plate Expires?
Do not drive the vehicle. Contact the dealer if the title has not been submitted on time, Colorado dealers are required to submit title applications within 30 days of sale under CRS § 42-3-103. If they are unresponsive, contact your county clerk’s motor vehicle office for guidance.
New Colorado Residents
If you move to Colorado, your out-of-state registration remains valid while you establish residency. Colorado requires you to register your vehicle within 90 days of establishing Colorado residency. No temporary plate is issued, your out-of-state plates remain legal until you complete Colorado registration.