Using a consistent Temporary License Plates (TLPs) checklist on every retail delivery helps California dealers avoid preventable compliance issues, customer callbacks, and paperwork rework. Dealer Educator training emphasizes that retail sales are reported through DMV-approved electronic systems (commonly Quick Tags or an authorized first-line service provider) to print both the Report of Sale (REG 51) and the TLPs you must attach before the vehicle is operated on public roads.

Why a TLPs + e-Report of Sale checklist matters

Your delivery process is where registration, titling, and compliance collide. A checklist keeps your team aligned on the steps that must happen every time:

• Sale is entered and transmitted through an approved e-reporting system.
• REG 51 is printed and the correct buyer copy is provided for display.
• TLPs are printed correctly and securely attached before the vehicle leaves.
• Copies are retained and stored for audit-ready recordkeeping.

Step-by-step Temporary License Plates (TLPs) checklist for retail delivery

1) Confirm you’re using an approved electronic reporting method

Dealer Educator courses explain that California dealers typically use Quick Tags (Fairfax Imaging) or an authorized first-line service provider to electronically report retail sales and print the required documents (REG 51 and TLPs) at the dealership.

• Verify staff logins and permissions before end-of-day delivery rush.
• Confirm your printer and paper/stock meet system requirements for TLP printing.
• Know your internal backup workflow if the system is temporarily unavailable.

For DMV reference on dealer registration procedures and the Report of Sale (REG 51), see the Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/vehicle-industry-registration-procedures-manual-2/.

2) Enter the sale data carefully before you print

Small data errors can create big downstream problems (corrections, delays, and customer frustration). Before printing:

• Match the VIN exactly as shown on the vehicle and supporting documents.
• Confirm buyer name/spelling and address accuracy.
• Confirm vehicle year/make/model are correct and consistent across forms.
• Confirm lienholder information (if applicable) matches the contract.

3) Print the Report of Sale (REG 51) and handle the copies correctly

Dealer Educator guidance: Print the REG 51 from your e-reporting system, provide the “window copy” (temporary identification portion) to the buyer for display, and retain the remaining portions for your records.

• Provide the buyer’s window copy for display in the windshield.
• Retain dealership copies in the deal jacket (or approved electronic records system).
• Train staff not to improvise with handwritten substitutes when e-reporting is required.

DMV reference on dealer use of numbered Report of Sale forms appears in the Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual section “Report of Sale Books Issued to Licensees”: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/vehicle-industry-registration-procedures-manual-2/general-information-licensees/report-of-sale-books-issued-to-licensees/.

4) Print Temporary License Plates (TLPs) on DMV-authorized durable stock

Dealer Educator training emphasizes that TLPs must be produced on DMV-authorized, durable, weather-resistant stock using compatible printing methods as required by your provider.

• Use only the approved stock and printer setup required by your system provider.
• Print cleanly so plate numbers, QR/validation features, and details are readable.
• Do not laminate or alter TLPs unless your provider/DMV instructions specifically allow it.

5) Verify the TLP includes the required information

Before you attach the plate, confirm the TLP displays the required identifiers that help law enforcement and DMV validate the transaction. Dealer Educator materials list the following items commonly included on a California TLP:

• Temporary License Plate number
• Report of Sale number
• VIN
• Vehicle make
• Vehicle model
• Expiration date set 90 days from the date of sale
• Embedded quick response (QR) code/validation information (as generated by the system)

6) Issue and attach TLPs before the vehicle is operated on public roads

Dealer Educator compliance instruction: If the vehicle does not have permanent license plates at the time of sale, attach the TLPs before the vehicle is driven off the lot. This step must be completed before the vehicle is operated on public roads.

• Attach TLPs to the vehicle prior to delivery drive-off.
• Use the correct mounting location(s) and keep plates clearly visible.
• Ensure the buyer leaves with the REG 51 window copy displayed as instructed.

7) Securely fasten the TLPs so they remain readable and in place

Dealer Educator recommends securely fastening TLPs at all four corners. This reduces the chance of loss, damage, or “flapping” that can make the plate unreadable.

• Fasten all four corners (avoid partial taping).
• Confirm the plate is not obstructed by a frame, dealer ad, or bracket.
• Do a quick walk-around check before handing over the keys.

8) If a TLP is lost or damaged, reprint immediately

Dealer Educator guidance: If a TLP is lost or damaged, reprint a replacement immediately using your electronic reporting system (Quick Tags or your authorized first-line service provider). Create a simple internal “tag reprint” log so your team can respond quickly and consistently.

Retail delivery quick-audit table (manager sign-off)

Common mistakes this checklist prevents

• Printing the TLP but not attaching it before drive-off.
• Handing the buyer the wrong REG 51 copy or failing to explain windshield display.
• Illegible printing due to incorrect paper or printer settings.
• Loose or partially taped plates that tear, fall off, or become unreadable.
• Slow response to lost/damaged tags instead of immediate reprint.

Tools and providers dealers may encounter

Dealer Educator training commonly references Quick Tags and authorized first-line service providers for electronic reporting and printing of REG 51 and TLPs. Examples of vendors dealers may see in the industry include:

• Dealertrack Registration and Titling Solutions
• Automated Vehicle Registration Service (AVRS)
• SambaSafety

Always confirm your current provider’s printing requirements, approved paper/stock, and workflow settings so your output matches California DMV expectations.

Takeaway

A repeatable Temporary License Plates (TLPs) checklist protects your dealership and your customer. When your team prints REG 51 and TLPs through an approved e-reporting system, verifies the required plate information (including the 90-day expiration), provides the buyer window copy, and securely attaches TLPs before road operation, you build a clean, audit-ready delivery process.

Sources

• California DMV – Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual
• California DMV – Report of Sale Books Issued to Licensees