Yes, you can drive a newly purchased car home without plates in Colorado, provided you meet specific conditions and timeframes.
Conditions for Driving a Newly Purchased Vehicle Without Plates in Colorado
In Colorado, buyers are granted a limited window to legally drive a vehicle they've just purchased without permanent plates. This provision is designed to allow you to transport the vehicle from the point of sale to your home or another immediate destination before you can obtain proper registration and license plates.
To legally drive your car without plates under this rule, you must adhere to the following:
-
Time Limit: You are permitted to drive the vehicle for a maximum of 36 hours from the exact time of purchase. This is a strict time limit.
-
Travel Purpose: The travel must be a direct journey, specifically from the location where you bought the vehicle (Point A) to your residence or another designated immediate destination (Point B). This covers driving it home.
-
Required Documents: You must have specific documentation physically present in the vehicle with you to prove ownership and the recent transaction. These are crucial for demonstrating compliance if stopped by law enforcement.
- Endorsed Title: This refers to the vehicle's certificate of title that has been properly signed over from the previous owner (seller) to you (buyer). It officially transfers ownership. Ensure all sections related to the seller's signature, buyer's information, and date of sale are accurately completed.
- Bill of Sale: A legally binding document detailing the sale transaction. It should include:
- The full names and addresses of both the buyer and the seller.
- The vehicle's make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- The exact purchase price.
- The precise date and time of the sale.
- Signatures of both the buyer and the seller.
Having these documents readily available is essential, as they serve as your temporary authorization to drive the vehicle without visible plates.
Next Steps After Driving Your Car Home
Once you have safely driven your newly purchased vehicle home, it is imperative to promptly take steps to secure proper registration and license plates. Colorado typically requires residents to register their vehicles within a specific timeframe after purchase.
- Temporary Tags: If you anticipate needing more than 36 hours before you can get permanent plates, or if you purchase from a dealer (who typically issues them), you will need to obtain temporary license plates. These usually provide a 60-90 day window for you to complete your permanent registration.
- Permanent Registration: Visit your local County Motor Vehicle office to apply for your permanent Colorado license plates and registration. You will typically need your endorsed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and valid identification.
Failing to register your vehicle and obtain proper plates within the required timeframes can result in fines, penalties, or even impoundment of the vehicle.
