What is defined as a substitute plate in DMV terms?

A substitute plate, in DMV terms, refers specifically to a replacement plate that is issued when the original license plate is lost or damaged. This ensures that vehicle owners can legally operate their vehicles without interruption due to issues with the original plates. The process for obtaining a substitute plate typically involves providing proof of the loss or damage, ensuring that the vehicle remains registered and identifiable on the road.

The other options do not define a substitute plate accurately. While a plate issued based on the owner's request may sound similar, it does not specifically relate to situations involving lost or damaged originals. A temporary tag for new vehicles typically serves as a short-term measure until permanent plates are received, rather than serving as a substitute for lost or damaged plates. Lastly, a plate used only for display purposes refers to decorative or show plates that are not intended for use on regular, operational vehicles and therefore do not fit the definition of a substitute plate.