Why Drivers Trust Tags Clinic for DMV Trip Permits
DMV-Authorized Temporary Operating Permits
We issue official 30-day permits backed by DMV records.
Same-Day Processing
Get your permit in minutes—drive legally today.
No Registration Yet? No Problem
We handle permits for unregistered, salvaged, auction, or smog-pending vehicles.
Smog or VIN Check? Covered
Use this permit to legally move your car to a testing facility.
Multilingual Staff
Spanish, Arabic, Somali, and more.
Book a Trip Permit Appointment
Appointments are recommended for faster service, but walk-ins are always welcome.
How to Book:
- Select your time
- Bring required documents
- Receive your permit same-day
What is a Trip Permit (Moving Permit)?
A trip permit, also known as a moving permit or day permit, provides temporary legal operation of your vehicle for specific purposes. It’s commonly used while resolving registration issues or transporting a vehicle for inspection, repair, or smog testing.
When Do You Need a Trip Permit?
- Your registration is expired and you need to legally move your vehicle
- Transporting a vehicle to a smog check or DMV appointment
- Driving an unregistered vehicle to repair or inspection
- Waiting for new registration or plates to arrive
What Is a Temporary Moving Permit?
- Also called a 30-Day Operating Permit, it’s a short-term DMV permit that allows you to legally operate a vehicle that’s not yet fully registered under limited circumstances, such as:
- Driving to a smog test
- Completing a VIN inspection
- Transferring a vehicle from seller to buyer
- Awaiting out-of-state title or paperwork
- Moving a newly purchased or salvaged car
What You’ll Need to Get a 30-Day Permit
Required Documents
- Valid government-issued ID
- Proof of vehicle ownership (Bill of Sale, title, or registration)
- Proof of insurance (in California)
- Out-of-state registration (if applicable)
- Reason for movement (e.g., smog test, VIN verification, repair)
- Completed REG 343 – Application for Title or Registration
- Completed REG 4017 – Temporary Operating Permit (we help you fill this out)
On-Site Support
We’ll handle everything on-site — forms, submission, and permit issuance.
Common Permit Scenarios
- Driving a car with expired registration
- Picking up a salvage vehicle from auction
- Waiting for DMV paperwork or smog clearance
- Transporting a non-op vehicle for repairs
- Moving an out-of-state vehicle to complete a CA transfer
- Assisting in lien sales or estate clearances
• DMV Permit Fee: ~$50 (subject to DMV pricing)
• Service Fee: Based on case complexity — quoted before submission
• Total: Typically ranges from $55 to $95 depending on documentation
We’ll provide a full estimate before we issue your permit.
The 30-Day Temporary Operating Permit is valid for 30 calendar days from the date of issuance.
If additional time is needed (e.g., smog delays, pending title), we may be able to assist with a second issuance — DMV rules apply.
Watch: How to Use a 30-Day Permit in California
Coming soon — A short video showing when and how to use your trip permit legally in California.
Customer Testimonials
Bought a car at Copart with no plates. Tags Clinic issued a permit so I could pick it up and smog it the same day.
They helped me get a moving permit to transport my car from LA after purchase. Process took 15 minutes.
Cities We Serve Within 50 Miles of San Diego
Tags Clinic proudly provides dealership and fleet DMV services across Southern California, including:
We’re located at 3845 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105—convenient for clients across the region.
Request a Temporary Permit or Quote
Need to know exactly what to bring? Submit your info and we’ll send you a checklist + price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Move Your Vehicle Legally — Without DMV Hassles
Get your trip permit in minutes and hit the road legally today.
- Book a Permit Appointment
- Request a Quote or Checklist
- Call (619) 777-9046
- Visit Our Office in San Diego
Contact Us
- Monday–Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM