How duplicate titles and temporary tags work in Alabama.
Dealer-focused reference for Alabama duplicate title requirements, temporary tag rules, and title submission deadlines. Administered by the Alabama Dept. of Revenue – Motor Vehicle Division.
Always confirm current fees and forms at the official state site linked below.
Duplicate title: $15Temp tag: 20 daysDealer title deadline: 20 days
Online via ALDOR Public Title Portal, any county License Plate Issuing Official, licensed AL dealer, or by mail to ALDOR MV Division, P.O. Box 327640, Montgomery, AL 36132
Turnaround
7–10 business days by mail; same-day at county office
Notarization required
No
Temp tag duration
20 days
Dealer title deadline
20 days after sale
Temporary tags / permits
Alabama temporary tag rules
Temporary tags in Alabama are valid for 20 days from the date of issue.
7-day dealer transit plates available ($5)
Dealers in Alabama must submit title paperwork within 20 days of the date of sale.
Stacking temporary tags — issuing a second consecutive temp tag to extend a vehicle's operation beyond the initial permit period without resolving the underlying title — is prohibited.
Dealer playbook
Keep a title-pending log sorted by temp tag expiration date. Review it every Monday.
Flag any vehicle where the title has not been applied for within half of the allowed deadline (Alabama's window is 20 days).
Never issue a second temp tag as a workaround for an unresolved title problem — this is prohibited and auditable.
If you receive trade-ins with no title in hand, start the duplicate process immediately rather than waiting for retail sale.
Alabama state quirk
Dealers act as Designated Agents and can process title applications in-house.