Written by DOL Blog

Getting a new car soon? You’ll get temporary license plates instead of paper permits


Graphic shows the backs of two vehicles. The car on the left has a paper temporary permit inside the back window. It is red to indicate the paper permit is no longer used. Text above the car says, "No more taping a paper permit in your car window." The truck on the right has a new temporary license plate in the frame. The truck is bright green and has a check next to the temporary plate, indicating drivers with a newly purchased car will display this from now on. Text next to the green check says, "Now you'll display temporary license plates."

Looking to buy a new vehicle? Starting June 29, you’ll receive new temporary license plates instead of a paper permit.

This change is the result of a new state law passed by the Legislature in 2022. Temporary license plates are more visible and durable than paper permits. Many other states have already moved to temporary license plates, including California and Texas.

The new look

Most people are familiar with the paper permits taped inside the back window of a recently purchased vehicle. The new temporary license plates are printed on durable, weather-resistant paper and should be displayed in the exterior plate frames on the front and back of the vehicle — the same spots where standard plates go.

Temporary plates replace paper permits for all vehicle types, including motorcycles.

Is there anything I need to do?

When buying a new vehicle, the dealer may install the temporary license plates for you.

If you need to install them yourself, you’ll receive instructions on how to do it. Do not tape your temporary license plates to your windows.

If you still have a paper permit on your vehicle instead of temporary license plates, don’t worry. The permit will be good until the expiration date or Sept. 1, whichever comes first.