The sooner the better. The vinyl is rated to last years once installed, but the application tape that is used transfer your decal has a shorter lifespan. We suggest you install the decal within 3 months. If you plan on installing the decal later than 3 months after you received it, we cannot guarantee it will transfer properly. To help elongate the decals life, store the un-applied decal in a cool dark dry place that does not have drastic temperature changes. If the decal is exposed to high heat, direct sunlight or freezing temperatures the chance for failure is increased.