A lot of confusion has been created about replacement in Baja California, with some people thinking it’s mandatory and others believing it won’t be a reason to eliminate it. So, what do the authorities say, and what does the law stipulate about this procedure?
Will replacement 2025 be canceled in Baja California?
Since the end of 2024, state authorities have said that changing plates prior to 2021 was optional; however, current legislation stipulates that this procedure is mandatory as of July 1, 2025. Therefore, many citizens are confused about the process, as not doing it can result in sanctions, but if the change is not mandatory, it represents an expense for drivers. On the other hand, if they don’t do it, they can face fines.
According to the Baja California Income Law 2025, all cars with plates prior to 2021 must replace them to circulate in the state. In the face of criticism, in January 2025, a decree was issued with discounts to promote the processing, and they will reimburse money to those who paid without a discount. However, the discount only applies if the procedure is done before July 1, and it’s not mentioned that the procedure ceases to be mandatory.
This is how the citizens of Baja California think about replacement 2025
So, will it not be eliminated? No, for the moment, the elimination of this measure is not stipulated, but its confusion continues and has been criticized. According to Lizbeth Mata Lozano, of the National Action Party (PAN), it’s a collection act that aims to generate around 900 million pesos. Hence, they request the 2017 decree, which eliminated the obligation of replacement, be restored. The party alleges that the income law establishes not only the obligation of the procedure but also that it must be carried out every three years, so it qualifies the statements of the official authorities as deceptive.
On the other hand, the leader of the PAN in Tijuana, Christopher Domínguez, commented that if the current plates have wear or deterioration, it is the responsibility of the Government to replace them without cost. He also doubts that the change of plates is to improve visibility and safety.
What awaits replacement 2025 in Baja California?
Around 24,338 Bajacalifornians have complied with the process; however, many have been affected by system failures and delays. But it’s not the first controversy around this year’s tax obligations. Recently, a wave of criticism of the 3 × 1 packet, denouncing these irregularities, has made citizens lose credibility in the process.
However, despite the contradiction between the official statements and the Income Law, the replacement procedure continues in the region. With doubts and uncertainty, many users prefer to do so, taking advantage of discounts before they are multiplier by non-compliance. Although for many, the measure represents an economic pressure that directly affects families, others fear sanctions for not doing so due to misinformation. In addition, political parties ensure that their main objective is not security but fiscal collection.
It remains to expect more information and clarity from the government, but at the moment, fulfilling this obligation ensures you are up to date and avoid an unnecessary fine. The situation highlights the importance of clear, coherent, and responsible communication between authorities and citizens to avoid greater tensions.