Temporary Operating Permit

(Commonly referred to as a Temp Tag or Drive Out Tag)

If you are unable to apply for your vehicle’s registration, then under certain circumstances you may be able to obtain a temporary operating permit.

To apply for your Temporary Operating Permit please provide the following in person at our main office or one of our five satellite locations:

Vehicle make, model, year, color, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and date of purchase (if applicable)
Reason for applying

Proof of ownership (title, title signed over, and/or notarized bill of sale and seller proof of ownership )
One (1) photo identification containing a distinguishing number (TN Driver License), or two (2) other forms of identification.
Failed emission test – 1^st and/or 2^nd (if applicable)
Repair bill or receipts for items purchased to repair emissions problem (if applicable)
Completed and signed application (the applicant must attest that due to certain issues they are unable to obtain their registration) Click Here

In addition, please be aware of the following:

There is a fee of $12.00
For any extenuating or unusual circumstances please visit our main office only.
If you have purchased your vehicle from a Tennessee dealer or a Tennessee Auction, you must return to your dealer for a Temporary Operating Permit. Our office cannot issue a permit for a new or used vehicle sold through an auction or dealership.
You must be a Davidson County Resident. If not, then you must go to the county in which you reside or to the TN Department of Revenue. Click Here
The vehicle must be registered to the person making application (Or the person applying must have power of attorney for the registered owner)
Temporary Operating Permits CANNOT be issued on salvage vehicles.
For additional information please contact the Tennessee Department of Revenue at (615) 741-3101. Click here to access Revenue office locations.