Form DSD 27. Permission to Use Dealer's License Plates - Virginia

The DSD 27 form, titled Permission for Use of Dealer's License Plates, is a crucial document used in Virginia to authorize certain individuals to operate a vehicle using a dealer’s license plates. This form bridges legal compliance with practical dealership operations, allowing prospective purchasers, individuals with vehicles in for repair, or Dealer Authorized Individuals to legally drive vehicles under dealer plates for a limited period.

Purpose of the Form

This form serves as official permission from a licensed motor vehicle dealer, certifying that the assigned operator is authorized to use dealer license plates. It ensures compliance with Virginia law while providing flexibility for short-term vehicle use. The document is typically issued in three scenarios:

• To a prospective purchaser for test drives or temporary use before purchase.
• To a customer whose vehicle is undergoing repairs at a dealer’s shop.
• To a Dealer Authorized Individual for dealer-related operational purposes, such as transportation between auctions or repair facilities.

Assigned Operator Information

This section captures the legal identity of the person permitted to use the dealer plate. Key points include:

• Full Legal Name: Must match government-issued ID.
• Operator Type: Only one box can be checked (prospective purchaser, customer, or Dealer Authorized Individual). Selecting more than one invalidates the form.

Typical mistakes: double-checking multiple boxes or misspelling names can lead to denial by law enforcement.

Vehicle Information

Here, the dealer records the specific vehicle details:

• VIN: Vehicle Identification Number must match the title and registration.
• Year, Make, Model: Ensure accurate entry to avoid confusion during DMV checks.

Plate Information

This part defines the authorized use period for the dealer plate:

• Date and Time Issued: Record when the operator starts using the plate.
• Expiration: Can be up to 24 hours for Dealer Authorized Individuals, or up to 5 days for prospective purchasers and vehicles in for repair.
• Dealer Plate Number: Must be specified to link authorization to the correct plate.

Dealer Certification

The dealer certifies compliance with Virginia law, confirming that all provided information and supporting documents are truthful. Key elements include:

• Dealer and dealership identification (name, certificate number).
• Authorized representative signature and date.
• Contact information including phone and email.

Legal note: False statements can lead to criminal penalties. Dealers must retain a copy for 5 years for inspection.

Practical Advice for Filling the Form

• Verify all names, VINs, and plate numbers match official records.
• Ensure only one operator type is selected.
• Attach any supporting documentation like proof of purchase or repair orders.
• Keep a copy of the form in the vehicle at all times during operation.
• Limit successive permissions to two periods unless issued to a Dealer Authorized Individual.

Real-World Examples

• A prospective buyer wants to test drive a vehicle for two days before finalizing the purchase. The dealer issues DSD 27 for 5 days.
• A customer’s car is in for major repairs; they need a temporary vehicle for commuting. Dealer issues the form for the duration of repair, not exceeding 5 days.
• A Dealer Authorized Individual needs to transport vehicles between auction locations. Form issued for 24 hours.
• A vehicle needs parts installation at another facility; form allows the operator to drive legally between locations.

Required Supporting Documents

• Proof of identity of the assigned operator (driver’s license).
• Vehicle title or registration.
• Repair orders or purchase agreements, if applicable.
• Dealer certification and copy retention by dealership.

FAQ

• Who can fill out this form? Only a licensed Virginia motor vehicle dealer.
• How long is the form valid? Up to 24 hours for Dealer Authorized Individuals, or up to 5 days for other operators.
• Can the same person receive multiple permissions? Only two successive periods unless they are a Dealer Authorized Individual.
• Is the form required for all vehicle tests? Only when a dealer plate is used instead of a personal plate.
• Where should the form be kept? In the vehicle during operation.
• What happens if false information is provided? Criminal penalties may apply.
• Can a dealer issue without supporting documents? No, proof of identity and related vehicle documents are mandatory.

Micro-FAQ

• Purpose? Authorizes dealer plate use.
• Who files? Licensed dealer.
• Deadline? Before vehicle operation.
• Attachments? ID, title, repair/purchase documents.
• Submitted to? Kept in vehicle; copy retained by dealer.
• Validity? 24 hours or 5 days depending on operator type.
• Limit? Max 2 successive periods unless dealer authorized.
• Penalties? Criminal for false info.

Navigation

• Related forms in Texas
• Other state forms
• Legal guides and instructions

Form Details

Form Name: Permission for Use of Dealer's License Plates

Form Number: DSD 27 (09/25/2015)

Region: Virginia, USA

Date of Revision: September 25, 2015