Temporary Operating Permits/Plates

Our department is authorized to issue Temporary Operating Permits (TOP) for two (2) specific reasons:

  • Purchase of a plate not in our inventory
  • Extension of a Georgia dealer TOP

Purchase of a plate not in our inventory:

If you purchase a plate that we do not have in our inventory, we are authorized to issue a 30 day TOP. The plate will subsequently be mailed by the Georgia Department of Revenue within the 30 day limit of your TOP.

Extension of a Georgia Dealer TOP

When you purchase your vehicle from a Georgia dealer, the dealer provides you with a 45 day TOP. The TOP is issued to allow the dealer time to apply for your title. If the dealer has not completed the title process within 5 days of the expiration of your TOP, you can request an extension of the TOP by calling our call center at 404-298-4000 or by visiting any of our three locations.

Requirements for Georgia Dealer TOP extension:

  • Georgia driver’s license or ID card
  • Valid insurance updated in our Georgia Motor Vehicle database
  • Emissions, if required

Only one extension beyond the dealer issued TOP will be permitted. Please check with your dealership about the status of your title before contacting our office.

There is no additional cost for a temporary operating permit.

Office Marker map