Form VTR-66. Application for Timed Temporary Permits

The Timed Temporary Permit is a short-term authorization that allows a vehicle to operate legally on public roads when it is not currently registered in Texas or when its out-of-state registration does not qualify for reciprocity. This permit is often used when a vehicle is being transported, repaired, prepared for sale, or awaiting full registration. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) issues these permits with strict documentation requirements and clear limitations on use.

Purpose of the Form

Form VTR-66 serves as an application for a timed permit that grants legal movement of a vehicle subject to Texas registration laws. The form verifies key details: who owns or controls the vehicle, whether the vehicle is roadworthy, and whether the applicant carries valid insurance and identification. The permit is typically issued for 30 days, and the permit period begins on the start date and time specified by the applicant.

Who Is Allowed to File This Form

• The registered owner of the vehicle
• A person with legal authority over the vehicle (e.g., buyer with bill of sale)
• A third party with a valid Power of Attorney
• A dealer or leasing company representative

Anyone submitting the application must provide a government-issued photo ID. If a third party is filing on behalf of the owner, a Power of Attorney (POA) must be included and will be verified by the county office.

Common Scenarios Where This Form Is Needed

• Newly purchased vehicle: A buyer needs to transport the car home or to an inspection station while awaiting proper registration.
• Out-of-state vehicle: A car brought into Texas lacks reciprocity or current registration from another jurisdiction.
• Repair or restoration: A non-operational vehicle has been repaired and now requires temporary road use before full registration.
• Fleet or commercial transition: A business moves a truck or trailer between locations before assigning long-term plates.

Major Legal Requirements Behind the Form

Texas requires all vehicles operating on public roads to be either registered or specifically authorized under a temporary permit. The law also requires:

• Valid liability insurance for the entire permit duration
• A passing vehicle inspection that remains current throughout the permit period
• Accurate disclosure of vehicle details such as VIN, body style, and weight

Falsifying information on this form is explicitly listed as a third-degree felony, underscoring the legal seriousness of temporary permits.

Section-by-Section Explanation

1. Applicant Information

This section captures your personal and contact details. Ensure your name, address, and phone number match your government-issued ID. Any discrepancies may delay approval.

2. Vehicle Information

You must provide complete details: VIN, make, model, year, body style, plate number (if any), vehicle colors, and gross weight for commercial vehicles. These details confirm that the permit applies to a specific identifiable vehicle.

3. Vehicle Class

• Passenger Vehicle
• Motorcycle
• Private Bus
• Trailer / Semitrailer
• Truck / Commercial Vehicle

Selecting the correct classification affects eligibility and compliance. For trucks and commercial vehicles, an additional question asks whether the vehicle will operate unladen—this helps determine permit applicability.

4. Salvage, Junk, or Nonrepairable Status

If the vehicle has ever been branded as junked or nonrepairable, it may not qualify for road use, even temporarily. Marking this incorrectly is a common mistake and may lead to permit denial.

5. Permit Information

The applicant must specify whether they are requesting a 30-Day Permit and choose the starting date and time. The permit is valid for 30 calendar days and may be purchased up to 60 days in advance.

6. Identification Verification

Accepted IDs include U.S. state-issued driver licenses, Texas handgun licenses, U.S. and foreign passports, military IDs, and several federal identification documents. TxDMV allows IDs up to 12 months past expiration.

7. Certification and Signature

By signing, you certify that the vehicle is subject to Texas registration requirements and currently lacks authorization to operate. This is a legally binding declaration.

Practical Tips for Filling Out the Form

• Double-check the VIN — transcription mistakes are extremely common.
• Ensure your inspection will remain valid for the full 30-day permit period.
• If using a POA, attach a clean, readable copy and ensure names match all documents.
• Submit payment only in accepted methods: cash, money order, or cashier’s check.
• If your vehicle lacks a rear window, carry the permit physically inside the vehicle.

Documents You May Need to Attach

• Proof of liability insurance
• Proof of current passing vehicle inspection
• Government-issued photo ID
• Power of Attorney (if filing on behalf of someone else)
• Bill of sale or ownership evidence (optional but often helpful)

Related Forms

• Texas 72-Hour Commercial Vehicle Permit
• Texas One-Trip Permit (VTR-66-RTV)
• Out-of-State Vehicle Title & Registration Application

FAQ

• How long is the timed temporary permit valid? The standard permit is valid for 30 days beginning on the start date selected on the application.
• Do I need insurance for the entire permit period? Yes, liability insurance must remain active and valid for the full duration of the permit.
• Can I renew or purchase multiple permits? Yes, but each permit is issued individually and requires full documentation.
• Can I drive a salvage or nonrepairable vehicle with this permit? Generally no; such vehicles are often prohibited from road use.
• Where do I submit this application? At your local county tax assessor-collector’s office or a TxDMV Regional Service Center.
• Can I mail the application? Yes, except you may not mail cash, and personal checks are not accepted.

Micro-FAQ (Short Answers)

• Purpose? Temporary legal operation of an unregistered vehicle.
• Who files? Vehicle owner or authorized representative.
• Duration? 30 days.
• Requires insurance? Yes.
• Requires inspection? Yes, valid through the permit period.
• Attachments? ID, insurance, inspection proof.
• Submit to? County tax office or TxDMV RSC.
• POA allowed? Yes, must be verified.
• ID expired? TxDMV accepts up to 12 months past expiration.

Form Details

• Form Name: Application for Timed Temporary Permit
• Form Number: VTR-66
• Jurisdiction: State of Texas
• Agency: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV)
• Revision Date: 04/2022