What Homeowners and Car Buyers Should Know About This Big Change
Beginning July 1, 2025, the state of Texas will officially replace paper temporary license plates with new color-coded metal plates. This new regulation—enacted under House Bill 718—aims to improve public safety, prevent fraud, and modernize vehicle registration practices.
Whether you’re a homeowner relocating to Texas, purchasing a vehicle for your family, or investing in property that involves vehicle registration, this is a change you’ll want to understand.
Why Is Texas Replacing Paper Temporary Plates?
The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) reported that approximately 1.8 million fake paper tags were in circulation as of 2021. These tags were easily forged and frequently used in criminal activities. In one tragic incident, an officer lost his life during a police pursuit involving a vehicle with fraudulent tags.
By issuing metal temporary plates, Texas aims to:
- Improve law enforcement’s ability to track vehicles.
- Enhance public road safety.
- Reduce vehicle-related crimes and fraud.
- Simplify and secure the vehicle registration process for buyers and dealers.
What’s Changing? A Quick Summary
Starting July 1, 2025:
- All new car buyers in Texas will receive metal plates immediately at the point of sale.
- Registration stickers will still be mailed later.
- Until the sticker arrives, buyers must keep the purchase receipt in the vehicle.
The New Color-Coded Metal Plates
Texas will now issue four types of metal temporary plates, each with a distinct color and use-case:
| Plate Color | Name | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 🟣 Purple | Buyer Provisional Plate | Issued when the dealer doesn’t have standard metal plates in stock. Indicates pending registration. |
| 🔵 Blue | Dealer Temporary Plate | Used by car dealers for test drives, transportation, and maintenance—not valid for personal driving. |
| 🟢 Green | Out-of-State Buyer Plate | For buyers living outside Texas. Valid for 60 days only for travel out of state, not for Texas road use. |
| 🔴 Red | Temporary Registration Plate | For use during ownership transfers. Replaces older 30-day permits. Issued at the county tax office or TxDMV center. |
Buying or Selling a Car Privately? Here’s What Stays the Same
If you’re buying or selling a car between private parties, the process remains unchanged:
- Seller must remove license plates and the registration sticker.
- Seller must file a Vehicle Transfer Notification within 30 days.
- Buyer must apply for a new title and registration through the county tax office.
What This Means for Homeowners and Investors
If you’re:
- Relocating to Texas
- Buying multiple vehicles for family or rental property use
- Managing a real estate portfolio with vehicles involved (e.g., construction crews, maintenance teams)
…you’ll need to adjust your registration processes accordingly. The new rules add security, but they also demand timely compliance and documentation.
FAQ: Texas Metal License Plate Update
Q: Do I need to go to the DMV to get my metal plate?
A: No. If you’re buying from a dealer, the plate will be issued at the point of sale. For private sales, apply through your local tax office.
Q: What happens if I lose my metal temporary plate?
A: You’ll need to request a replacement through your dealer or the TxDMV.
Q: Will this affect vehicle inspections or taxes?
A: No, this change is strictly about registration and identification. Other requirements remain the same.
Q: Can I still use a paper temporary plate after July 1, 2025?
A: No. All new registrations must use the metal system starting from that date.
Final Thoughts
This update is part of a broader push by the state to digitize and modernize its vehicle registration system, similar to how real estate records and taxes are being integrated with digital platforms.
✅ If you’re in the process of moving, you might also be interested in:
First-Time Home Buyer Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Essential Real Estate Closing Documents You Must Understand Before Buying a Home in the U.S.
How to Increase Your Home’s Value Before Selling
By staying informed, you’ll avoid unnecessary fines, confusion, or registration delays—and keep your transition to Texas smooth and compliant.
