KENNER, La. — If you purchase a new or used vehicle, you have 60 days to get a metal license plate. In the meantime, the temporary registration plate, more commonly known as a temp tag, must be displayed, according to state law.
But in the last four to five months, agencies across Louisiana have been noticing a disturbing trend – fake temp tags.
Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley has directed his officers to keep an eye out for the illegal tags.
“This is our number one problem in Kenner," Conley said.
In a matter of months, Kenner Police collected more than 100 fake temporary registration plates. Conley said that most of the time, it led to an arrest.
“This is probably the number one threat to the traveling public because behind these fraudulent tags is a driver with no driver’s license, probably no insurance, that are up to no good," Conley said.
For a driver with a license and insurance, it's scary. If you're in an accident with someone, you'll most likely have to pay out of pocket, Conley said.
“This is probably why your auto insurance rates are so high," Conley said.
Conley said the notable differences on the fake tags are the lack of a watermark, using a typed font in areas that should be handwritten, and tag numbers that are duplicated.
The Chief has also noticed several tags that say, "Crosby Auto." The company hasn't issued a temp tag since 2018, Conley said.
This isn't just happening in Kenner, the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles Commissioner, Dan Casey, said these tags are being spotted on roadways across the state and country.
“Unfortunately, I think it’s very prevalent in Louisiana," Casey said.
Casey said people are making copies of real tags and making or buying fake tags online.
State law allows drivers to display the temporary tag in the window, but that makes it harder for officers to see, Casey said.
Right now, Casey said the punishment for displaying an illegal tag isn't harsh enough.
“It’s only a $100 fine and up to 30 days in jail. So that needs to be strengthened," Casey said.
Jefferson Parish Council passed a resolution urging the OMV, Commissioner of Insurance, and JP's Legislative Delegation to work together to enact new laws.
Casey said it was too late to get any legislation passed this session, so drivers will have to wait until next year.
“We definitely need some teeth in the statues," Conley said.
Conley said his officers have developed a keen eye for the tags.
“We’re not backing down," Conley said.
Louisiana State Police also said that State Troopers regularly see the fraudulent tags and maintain "constant vigilance to identify and take necessary action" when they encounter them on our highways.
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