As of July 1, 2025, Texas has officially retired its paper license plates, ushering in a new era of metal plate issuance at the point of sale—a sweeping change brought about by . Signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023, the bill aims to crack down on widespread fraud and criminal misuse of temporary paper tags.
Why HB 718 Was Needed
For years, Texas law enforcement agencies and transportation officials raised alarms about the rampant abuse of paper license plates, which were easily forged and sold illegally online. These counterfeit tags were often used to:
- Evade tolls and registration fees
- Conceal stolen or unsafe vehicles
- Obstruct law enforcement investigations
- Facilitate crimes such as carjackings and robberies
What the Law Changes
Under HB 718, all licensed Texas car dealers must now issue metal license plates at the time of sale. Temporary paper tags are no longer permitted. Instead, buyers will receive one of several color-coded metal plates, depending on their situation:
These plates are tracked through the webDEALER system, ensuring each tag is tied to a verified buyer and vehicle.
Cost and Compliance
- Metal plates cost $10 and replace the former 30-day and one-trip permits
- Dealers must maintain an inventory of plates and issue them immediately upon sale
- Buyers must keep their purchase receipt in the vehicle until their registration sticker arrives
A Win for Public Safety
Law enforcement officials have praised the law as a major step toward reducing vehicle-related crime. By eliminating the anonymity of paper tags, HB 718 enhances traceability and accountability on Texas roads.
What Drivers Should Know
- If you buy a car from a Texas dealer after July 1, you’ll leave with metal plates already installed
- Paper tags are no longer valid after their expiration date
- Private vehicle sales are not affected—sellers must still remove their plates and file a transfer notice
This legislative shift marks a significant modernization of Texas vehicle registration practices. For more details, visit the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles’ HB 718 resource page.