Deadline for Odd-Numbered License Plates: A Reminder of a Well-Known Fiscal Obligation
Today marks the payment deadline for the vignette (vehicle registration fee) for cars with odd-numbered license plates. This annual deadline serves as a reminder of a fiscal obligation that vehicle owners are all too familiar with.
Revenue Projections for 2026
According to the 2026 Finance Law, the total revenue from vignettes is expected to reach 262 million. This amount is supplemented by an additional 165 million from the compensation tax on transportation, paid by taxis, rental vehicles, vehicles with more than 9 seats, and vehicles towed by another vehicle for goods transportation.
Modest Revenue in the Grand Scheme
Although these amounts are significant in absolute terms, they remain modest compared to the state's overall fiscal revenue. In fact, they account for only 0.9% of total fiscal revenue. Even if this sum were to be invested entirely in road maintenance or construction, it would not be enough to significantly improve their quality.
Current Calculation Method: A System in Need of Reform
The current calculation method is based solely on the vehicle's fiscal power and fuel type (gasoline, diesel, LPG). This system is neither fair (as it does not take into account actual usage or environmental impact) nor environmentally friendly.
A New Approach: Integrating CO₂ Emissions
To make this taxation more effective and environmentally friendly, it is necessary to integrate a new parameter: the vehicle's CO₂ emissions. This approach is already widely adopted internationally and involves the application of an ecological bonus-malus system.
Benefits of the New Approach
This change would have two major advantages:
- Encouraging the renewal of the vehicle fleet: by replacing old, polluting vehicles with newer, less emissive models.
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: contributing to the fight against climate change.
However, before implementing this change, it is essential to reassess the pricing structure, as the current prices make replacing a vehicle a significant project.
