Vehicle Registration Law Changes

Effective September 1, 1998, a new law went into effect that requires Wisconsin residents to display a metal license plate or temporary license plate on a car or small truck under 8,000 pounds within two (2) business days of purchasing the vehicle. If a person doesn't have a metal plate to transfer on the vehicle, they will need to use a temporary plate.

Wisconsin licensed dealers are required to provide temporary plates to their customers, and lending institutions will issue temporary plates to all loan customers. The temporary plate will be valid for 90 days. 

Customers not purchasing a vehicle from a dealer and who don't have a leinholder on the vehicle may obtain temporary plates by submitting a completed application and all necessary fees to the Sheriff's Department.