How duplicate titles and temporary tags work in Michigan.
Dealer-focused reference for Michigan duplicate title requirements, temporary tag rules, and title submission deadlines. Administered by the Michigan Secretary of State.
Always confirm current fees and forms at the official state site linked below.
Duplicate title: $15 by mail; $20 same-day branchTemp tag: 30 daysDealer title deadline: 15 days
Secretary of State branch office (same-day) or by mail
Turnaround
Same-day at branch; 2–3 weeks by mail
Notarization required
No
Temp tag duration
30 days
Dealer title deadline
15 days after sale
Temporary tags / permits
Michigan temporary tag rules
Temporary tags in Michigan are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Dealer plate permits valid 30 days; dealer plates (D-plates) used for inventory transport
Dealers in Michigan must submit title paperwork within 15 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 (Michigan's window is 15 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.
Michigan state quirk
Michigan requires dealer title submission within 15 days of sale. SOS branch offices offer same-day duplicate titles for a $5 premium over mail-in service.