Yucatán Plate Replacement Deadline: Avoid Fines and Penalties

This does not apply to Quintana Roo.

Yucatán, Mexico — With the arrival of December, the final month of the year, many drivers in Yucatán are wondering what will happen if they do not complete the 2025 plate replacement, a procedure that is now in its final phase and whose deadline is approaching.

The plate exchange process is advancing, but failing to comply before the year ends can bring economic, administrative, and legal repercussions that would directly impact the daily circulation of vehicles.

According to information from the Secretariat of Administration and Finance (SAF), by mid-November more than 300,000 procedures had been completed, with revenue exceeding 350 million pesos, representing approximately 60% of the annual goal. Despite this, thousands of owners have still not completed the procedure.

When Does the Plate Replacement in Yucatán Conclude?

The staggered scheme of the plate replacement will officially end on December 31, 2025. After that date, driving without updated plates will imply sanctions that could affect both one’s pocket and the ability to complete vehicle procedures.

Is the 2025 Plate Replacement Mandatory?

Yes. The State Government determined that the plate change is mandatory for all vehicles registered in Yucatán’s vehicle registry, including private cars, public service units, and motorcycles. The established deadline expires at the close of December 2025.

Consequences of Not Completing the Procedure on Time

Economic Fines

Once the deadline has passed, state authorities may sanction those who drive with expired plates. The anticipated fines range between 9 and 12 UMA, which in 2025 equates to 1,018.26 and 1,357.68 pesos, in accordance with the State Traffic and Roadway Law.

It should be noted that the value of the UMA is updated in January, so in 2026 the fine could exceed 1,500 pesos, and in cases of recurrence the amount may double.

Plate Removal or Impoundment

The Secretariat of Public Security (SSP) has the authority to remove expired plates and even tow the vehicle to the impound lot if the driver does not have valid documentation.

The costs include:

• 136 pesos for the first 10 days of storage.
• 28 pesos for each additional day.
• Towing service starting at 950 pesos within Mérida’s Periférico Ring Road for vehicles up to four tons, with increases if the tow is outside that zone.

Restrictions for Vehicle Procedures

Not having valid plates prevents the completion of various procedures, such as renewing the vehicle registration card or any fiscal procedure related to the vehicle.

Problems with Insurance Companies

Some insurance companies warn that driving with expired plates can lead to denial of coverage in case of an accident or a reduction in compensation, considering that the vehicle does not comply with current regulations.

Risks at Checkpoints

During the December holidays and the start of the year, the SSP increases surveillance operations. If stopped, the driver must present valid plates and vehicle registration; otherwise, they could be sanctioned.

Last Opportunity to Take Advantage of Discounts

The fiscal benefits contemplated in the state decrees “Ponte al Día Vehicular” (45/2025) and “Reemplaca y Regularízate 2025” (79/2025) will only be valid until December 31, 2025. Among them stand out:

• 75% discount on traffic fines.
• 100% forgiveness of vehicle tax for 2015 and prior years, including surcharges and notifications.
• Total reduction of debts for registration fees corresponding to the years 2012, 2016, 2021, 2023, and 2024.