Temporary plates (prøvekjennemerke)
Temporary plates allow legal driving when a vehicle lacks permanent registration. You must document the need, follow the permit period and return the plates on time.
When are temporary plates required?
| Situation | Required? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Dealer test-driving an unregistered car | Yes | Public-road use without ordinary plates |
| Transport to or from inspection | Yes | Driving between workshop and inspection authority |
| Private purchase without plates | Yes | Needed until registration is complete |
| Demonstration on closed premises | No | Not public traffic |
| Driving after registration is complete | No | Use the permanent plates |
See Licence, registration and insurance for documentation rules.
Application steps
- Gather documents: sales contract, ID and valid insurance.
- Sign in at Statens vegvesen services and submit the application.
- Choose dates and purpose, then pay the fee online.
- Collect the plates at a Driver and Vehicle Licensing Office or authorised dealer.
| Document | Must show |
|---|---|
| Sales contract/order | VIN or registration number, date, both parties |
| Insurance proof | Liability insurance covering the permit period |
| Authorisation | Needed if you act on behalf of the owner |
Rules while driving
- Mount plates front and rear and keep the original receipt in the vehicle.
- Limit driving to the approved route and period.
- Carry a valid category B licence and identification at all times.
- Dealers should log mileage, driver and purpose for each trip.
- Return the plates before expiry. Collection and return points are listed under Statens vegvesen services .
Costs and validity
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fee | Fixed rate per set, payable on ordering |
| Validity | Normally one day; up to 30 days with proper justification |
| Insurance | Must cover the entire period, even for short trips |
| Misuse | Leads to fines, loss of access and possible prosecution |
Practical tips
- Plan the trip so you can return the plates within the deadline.
- Photograph the mounted plates when collected and returned.
- Inform customers and colleagues about who is authorised to drive.
- Build checklists together with Used-car purchase checklist .