Understanding the Plate Change Process in Jalisco
The government of Jalisco has implemented a plate change program for 2025, aiming to update the vehicle registry and improve road safety. The program targets vehicles with outdated plates, with the exception of those with the “Collage” design introduced in 2019. Vehicle owners with older plate designs, such as “maguey,” “gota,” or “Minerva,” must replace them.
Eligible Vehicles and Deadline
The program focuses on replacing obsolete plates, which account for 70% of the current vehicle fleet in Jalisco. The change is mandatory, and owners must pay a tax to complete the process. However, the “3 × 1 package program” offers a discounted rate and the convenience of completing all procedures at once.
Organized Replacement Schedule
To manage the replacement process efficiently, the government has established a calendar based on the plate’s ending number. The schedule is as follows:
- February: Plates ending in 1
- February-March: Plates ending in 2
- March-April: Plates ending in 3
- April-May: Plates ending in 4
- May-June: Plates ending in 5
- July-August: Plates ending in 6
- August-September: Plates ending in 7
- September-October: Plates ending in 8
- October-November: Plates ending in 9
- November: Plates ending in 0
Procedure and Requirements
The plate change process involves three steps: Refrendo payment, verification, and plate replacement. To complete the process, owners must present the following documents:
- Current official identification (INE or passport)
- Vehicle invoice
- Proof of recent address (maximum three months old)
- Previous plates
Upon delivering the required documentation, owners will receive their new plates at an authorized fiscal collection office.
Benefits and Discounts
The Jalisco government offers discounts and benefits to encourage citizens to update their vehicle registrations. These include:
- Up to 50% discount on owner change processes
- Condonation of unpaid Refrendo fees from previous years
By participating in the program, owners can avoid fines and ensure their vehicles meet current standards.