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France Introduces Pink License Plates for Temporary Vehicles

Madeira GuideMadeira Guide
April 28, 2026
3 min read

France has implemented pink license plates for temporary vehicles to simplify identification. This change, effective from January 1, aims to improve regulation and is crucial for Madeira visitors driving through France.

Starting January 1, France has introduced a new measure to facilitate the identification of temporary vehicles by adopting pink license plates. This change is designed to simplify the regulatory process and is particularly important for Madeira residents and tourists who may drive through France.

The pink license plates apply to temporary registrations marked with 'WW' or 'W'. These plates are commonly used for vehicles in transition, such as those undergoing legalization, transfer, or professional use. For example, vehicles used by driving instructors during practical exams will also display the new pink plates.

The introduction of pink as a color is not merely an aesthetic choice. It aims to assist law enforcement by allowing immediate recognition of temporary vehicles without needing to scrutinize the plate details. This visual distinction is expected to minimize the risks of unauthorized use and enhance control over the registration periods.

Another significant update is the inclusion of the expiration date of the temporary certificate on the plates, showing both the month and year. This feature allows for quick verification of whether the usual two-month registration period is still valid or has expired.

Despite these changes, the plates remain compliant with European standards regarding size and character format, ensuring their compatibility with the systems used across other EU countries.

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Madeira Guide

Madeira Guide

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