NEW YORK — The city is cracking down on fake license plates that are used to skirt tolls on local roads.

It comes after several drivers were recently caught using fake plates as they crossed MTA bridges and tunnels.

Two were labeled as being from New Jersey, another from Texas.

Image of a recently confiscated fake paper license plate. Courtesy: MTA Bridges and Tunnels

Anyone caught dodging tolls faces up to a year in jail and/or a fine of up to a thousand dollars.

Police and Transportation Department workers are now being trained to spot the fakes, which are often made out of paper and sold online.

Law enforcement officials say phony plates can cause major problems if the cars are involved in violent crimes, drunk-driving incidents, or take up valuable parking space.