Starting July 1, a major change is coming for Texas drivers. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is ending the use of paper temporary tags. Instead, car buyers will be issued permanent metal license plates directly at the point of sale.

According to DPS statements, this move is part of a statewide crackdown on paper tag fraud, a growing issue that has allowed counterfeit tags and untraceable vehicles to flood Texas roads. Officials say metal plates will enhance public safety and streamline the registration process.

Police officers around the state have shared their grievances with paper tags, as many of them have been used in the commission of crimes.

What Car Buyers Can Expect

If you’re buying from a dealership, you’ll leave the lot with permanent plates already attached to your vehicle. You’ll still receive your registration sticker in the mail, but there’s a built-in grace period allowing you to drive legally in the meantime.

For those trading in a car, dealers will retain the old plates unless they’re specialty or personalized. Those plates can then be reassigned to the vehicle’s next owner. Dealers are also required to submit a Vehicle Transfer Notification (VTN) to ensure records stay current.

Private Sales: More Responsibility

Buying or selling a vehicle privately will now require a trip to the DMV. Both parties must be present to finalize the transfer and register the vehicle. This added step is designed to protect both buyer and seller from fraud and ensure accurate paperwork.

Texas joins a growing list of states taking action against fake tags and vehicle-related fraud, putting an end to a loophole that law enforcement says has endangered public safety for too long.