Indiana Temporary Permit Rules for New Car Transport

You just bought a car in Indiana and need to get it home. Indiana temporary permit rules for newly purchased vehicles and transport let you drive or move it legally while you wait for permanent plates. Without one, you risk fines or even having the vehicle towed.

Indiana’s 30-day temporary permit is the standard solution, and it’s required if you’re driving the car yourself. As of 2026, the state doesn’t offer a grace period, so you’ll need that permit in hand before hitting the road.

The permit costs $10 to $20. No grace period exists.

How Indiana Temporary Permits Work

Indiana issues 30-day permits to cover the gap between purchase and permanent registration. The permit must be displayed in the rear window. It’s not a substitute for insurance, which you must show when applying.

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) manages the process. Dealers can issue permits on the spot. For private sales, you’ll need to visit a BMV branch or use their online portal.

The Indiana BMV provides current forms and instructions.

Dealer vs. Private Sale: Different Rules

Dealers in Indiana can issue temporary permits directly. You can drive off the lot the same day with a valid permit. The dealer submits paperwork to the BMV, and you’ll receive permanent plates by mail.

Private sales require a BMV visit. Bring the title, bill of sale, and proof of insurance. The BMV will issue your 30-day permit.

Private sellers cannot provide permits themselves.

What You Need to Get a Temporary Permit

You’ll need the vehicle title, even if it’s still in the seller’s name. A bill of sale proves the transaction. Proof of insurance is mandatory.

For new vehicles, the dealer provides a manufacturer’s certificate of origin (MCO). Out-of-state purchases may require a VIN inspection. Always confirm current requirements with the BMV.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an Indiana Temporary Permit

Gather your documents: title or MCO, bill of sale, and proof of insurance. For in-person applications, find your nearest BMV branch.

Dealers typically handle the process for you. They submit your information to the BMV and provide the permit. For private sales, visit the BMV, complete the application, pay the fee, and receive your permit.

Fees range from $10 to $20. Display the permit in the rear window and keep a copy with you.

Can You Drive or Tow the Car Without a Permit?

No, you cannot legally drive the vehicle without a temporary permit. Indiana requires valid registration or a permit for any vehicle on public roads. Towing is different, as the towed vehicle doesn’t need its own permit if it’s not being driven.

If you’re transporting the car on a trailer, the trailer must be registered and the towing vehicle must have valid plates. The car being towed doesn’t need a permit. But if you’re driving it, even a short distance, you must display the permit.

Out-of-State Purchases: Special Rules for Transport

Buying a car out of state and bringing it to Indiana adds steps. You’ll need a temporary permit to drive it back. Some states issue permits for out-of-state buyers.

If the seller doesn’t provide one, apply for an Indiana permit before driving the vehicle into the state. Indiana doesn’t honor out-of-state permits long-term. Check the Indiana BMV for the latest rules.

Costs, Fees, and Processing Times

The fee for a 30-day permit is $10 to $20. The exact cost depends on the vehicle type and application method. Dealers often include this fee in the purchase price.

Processing is instant for in-person applications at a BMV branch. Online applications, if available, may take a day or two. There’s no grace period, so don’t drive without the permit.

Common Mistakes That Get You Fined

Forgetting to display the permit in the rear window is a common error. Indiana law requires it to be visible at all times. Letting the permit expire before registering the vehicle is another mistake.

Driving without insurance is also a violation, even with a permit. The BMV checks for proof of insurance when issuing the permit. Fines for these violations can reach $500.

What Happens If Your Permit Expires?

If your 30-day permit expires, you can no longer legally drive the vehicle. Indiana doesn’t offer extensions. You must register the car before the permit runs out.

Driving with an expired permit can result in fines and towing. Start the registration process early to avoid delays. There’s no leeway for expired permits.

Transporting the Vehicle: Driving vs. Towing vs. Shipping

Driving the vehicle yourself requires a valid temporary permit. This is the simplest option if the car is roadworthy.

Towing the vehicle doesn’t require a permit for the towed car, but the tow vehicle must be registered. This works well for non-running cars or long-distance moves.

Shipping via a transport service also doesn’t require a permit for the car. The transport company handles all legal requirements.

Indiana BMV vs. Dealer-Issued Permits: Which Is Right for You?

Dealer-issued permits are the most convenient. They’re handled on the spot, so you can drive away immediately. This is ideal for most dealer purchases.

BMV-issued permits are necessary for private sales or if the dealer doesn’t provide one. You’ll need to visit a BMV branch with your documents. This option gives you control but requires extra effort.

FAQs About Indiana Temporary Permits