Starting in 2025, the Government of Jalisco launched a mandatory license plate replacement program. The goal is to modernize the state’s vehicle registry, comply with national regulations, and improve security.
If you own or plan to buy a car in Jalisco or Puerto Vallarta, this change affects you. From January 1st, 2026, vehicles without the new plates will face fines or even be impounded.
Which Plates Must Be Replaced?
You must change your plates if your car currently has any of the following older designs:
– “Maguey”
– “Gota”
– “Minerva”
These are no longer valid under the new regulations. The only plates that remain valid are the ones with the “Collage” design, which already meet the federal standard.
What Do the New Plates Look Like?
The new official designs for Jalisco are called “Collage” and “Cabañas”. They feature:
– A modern, secure design that includes a QR code for digital verification.
– Reflective white background and the “Jalisco” legend on top.
– Compliant with national regulation NOM-001-SCT-2-2016.
Step-by-Step: How to Replace Your Plates!
Requirements:
– Vehicle invoice (original or certified copy)
– Official ID (INE, passport, etc.)
– Proof of address (no older than 3 months)
– Current plates (to be surrendered)
– Proof of annual vehicle tax payment (refrendo)
– Vehicle verification certificate (pass or fail — both are accepted)
Process:
1. Pay your refrendo for 2025 on refrendo.jalisco.gob.mx.
2. Book your verification appointment.
3. Book your license plate appointment online through the Jalisco tax office website (SEFIN en Línea).
4. Attend the appointment with your documents and old plates.
5. Receive your new plates and registration card the same day.
Cost:
If you qualify for the “Paquetazo 3×1” program, you only pay for the refrendo (approx. MXN 900) and the plate replacement + verification are included.
Important Deadlines
– The program began on February 1st 2025, following a schedule based on the last digit of your current plate number.
– Sanctions begin January 1st 2026 for vehicles that still use the old designs.
– Vehicles with outdated plates cannot circulate legally in 2026.
Final Thoughts
The new Jalisco license plate program brings order and transparency to the vehicle registry.
At MexCar PV, we make sure every car we sell, inspect, or rent complies fully with local regulations — giving our clients peace of mind and hassle-free ownership.
If you’re not sure whether your plates need to be replaced, or you’re buying a car soon, contact MexCar PV — we’ll verify it for you and guide you step-by-step.