The duplicate copy of an application for a certificate of title will serve the owner of a motor vehicle as a permit for its operation until the Department either issues a certificate of title for such motor vehicle or refuses to issue a certificate. A designated agent receiving an application for a certificate of title, when the provisions of this Act have been otherwise complied with, shall deliver t the applicant a duplicate copy of his application which will be his authorization to register and license the vehicle in Alabama.  (Authority: §32-8-3(a)(2))