Pink number plates: why they’ll be appearing on French roads from January 2025

From January onwards, a new color catches the eye on the asphalt. Pink license plates are arriving on the roads, to make temporary registrations more visible and understandable. Motorists and professionals alike will have to get used to this new code.

What’s new on the roads in January

The Ministry of the Interior has enacted a simple but powerful change: temporary plates will become bright pink with black lettering. What’s more, the expiry date is now legible on the right-hand side, making it easier to check when the vehicle is stationary or in traffic.

In concrete terms, two categories are concerned: WW plates for use while awaiting final registration, and W garage plates for professional use. In this way, the plates can be read immediately, without confusion with conventional plates.

This visibility is a key factor in safety and the fight against fraud. As a result, agents and drivers save time, and high-risk situations are spotted more quickly. On the other hand, the administrative process remains unchanged.

“A clear color code, a visible date: control is faster and fairer.

Who is concerned, and in what cases?

Are you waiting for a vehicle registration document after a recent purchase or import? The users concerned see the pink license plates appear when a provisional registration is issued. In this way, the transitional period remains clearly defined and identifiable.

Automotive professionals use the W garage for test drives, transfers and breakdown services. The unique color makes it easy to identify vehicles on business trips.

• Color: bright pink, easy to read from a distance
• Typeface: contrasting black characters
• End of validity date on right
• Types: WW and W garage concerned
• Timetable: increased visibility from January

How to recognize the new temporary plate

At first glance, the bright pink hue stands out from the crowd. The pink license plate becomes a common landmark for drivers, police and gendarmerie. Reading them no longer requires any special effort.

Temporary license plate – WW. Provisional plate, bright pink with black lettering, and expiry date on right.

The format remains true to the usual dimensions, both front and rear. What’s more, the validity indication can be read without approaching the vehicle. In short, visual conformity is combined with ease of use.

Controls, fines and insurance

This color code helps to identify out-of-date or out-of-frame permits. Consequently, driving with an invalid temporary plate can expose you to penalties and insurance worries.

With these pink license plates, the police can check a vehicle’s status more quickly. So keep your supporting documents handy to prove that you’ve done the right thing.

Practical advice to avoid unpleasant surprises

Before setting off, check the end date on the right-hand side. In this way, you can adjust your routes and anticipate the application for the definitive vehicle registration document.

Temporary license plate – W garage. Provisional plate, bright pink with black lettering, and expiry date on the right.

If you still have an old temporary plate, follow the validity indicated on your documents. On the other hand, when renewing or reissuing, expect to receive the pink version.

These visual cues simplify every control, without adding unnecessary steps. The pink license plates serve as a clear beacon throughout the provisional phase. As a result, everyone gains in legibility and peace of mind on the road.

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