HOUSTON, Texas– The State of Texas will begin phasing out temporary paper license plates on July 1, 2025, replacing them with metal tags, state officials announced.
The change follows the passage of House Bill 718, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in June 2023, and will be implemented by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV).
The new system requires auto dealerships to issue metal license plates at the point of sale instead of paper tags. State officials said the decision aims to enhance security and reduce fraud linked to counterfeit paper tags.
TxDMV reported that forged paper plates have been widely used in criminal activities, including vehicle theft and drug trafficking.
Officials stated that metal tags will include features that make them harder to duplicate, helping to prevent fraudulent use.
TxDMV has stated that it will coordinate with dealerships to maintain an adequate supply and avoid disruption to vehicle sales.
The department has launched an information campaign to educate the public and stakeholders about the change. Officials confirmed that buyers will receive a metal plate at the time of purchase rather than waiting for permanent plates by mail.
