If you’re driving in New York, Florida, Washington or Georgia, you might want to double-check to make sure your car tag is up to date.

CARFAX’s latest research CARFAX’s data showed nearly 17 million vehicles on U.S. roads began 2025 with expired registration tags.

It also came with a warning about the potential consequences for driving with an outdated tag, noting some states have fines “that can run up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars,” some will tow or impound vehicles, and violators in the aforementioned states can face jail time for repeat offenses, according to their Department of Motor Vehicles websites.

The average lag for most drivers with expired tags is about four months, according to CARFAX data, more than enough time for fines or other penalties to accumulate.

In California, for example, the DMV said law enforcement may order a vehicle towed or impounded if its registration has been expired more than six months, CARFAX said. And while jail time isn’t typical, that decision “would be up to a judge.”

The vehicle history report provider recounted the story of an out-of-state driver in Massachusetts whose car was impounded by a state trooper, leaving him stranded on the side of the road.

In addition to the legal penalties, the company said expired tags can also complicate issues in accidents, potentially affecting insurance claims.

CARFAX’s data showed Texas with 2.1 million expired vehicle registrations as of Jan. 1, most in the nation, followed by New York with 1.1 million and California and Pennsylvania, with 1 million each.

“As summer kicks off and more families hit the road, a simple missed renewal can quickly spiral into a costly legal or financial headache,” CARFAX Car Care general manager Paul Nadjarian said. “The free CARFAX Car Care app helps drivers avoid surprises by sending timely reminders for key deadlines — from registration renewals to maintenance, such as recalls and tire rotations.”