19 states require both front and rear license plates; 31 states require only a rear plate

The states that mandate front plates are Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The remaining states allow you to display a plate only on the back of your vehicle.

This matters because driving without a front plate in a state that requires one can result in a traffic citation, a fine, or both — even if your vehicle is otherwise legal. The fine varies by state but typically ranges from $50 to $200 for a first offense. Some states treat it as a moving violation, which can affect your insurance rates.

If you move to a state with different plate requirements, you will need to obtain a new plate set and install the front plate before you register your vehicle there. If you already have a front plate from your previous state, you cannot straightforward transfer it; you must order new plates from your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

Key Takeaways

  • Nineteen states require a front license plate in addition to a rear plate; thirty-one states require only a rear plate.
  • Driving without a required front plate can result in a fine ranging from $50 to $200, depending on the state.
  • If you move to a state with different plate requirements, you must order new plates from that state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • Some states treat a missing front plate as a moving violation, which may increase your insurance rates.

Why states have different front plate rules

Front plate requirements exist primarily to aid law enforcement in vehicle identification and tracking. A front plate allows officers and traffic cameras to record a vehicle's registration number from the front, which is useful during traffic stops, at toll booths, and in parking enforcement. States that require front plates argue this improves public safety and helps solve crimes.

States that do not require front plates often cite cost and aesthetics as reasons. Requiring only a rear plate reduces the expense of manufacturing and issuing plates, and some drivers prefer the appearance of a vehicle without a front plate. These states typically rely on rear-plate identification and have determined that the public safety benefit does not justify the added cost and inconvenience.

What happens if you move to a state with different requirements

When you register a vehicle in a new state, that state's Department of Motor Vehicles will issue plates according to that state's law. If you move from a state that requires only a rear plate to one that requires both, you will receive two plates and must install the front plate before you legally operate the vehicle on public roads.

If you move from a state that requires front plates to one that does not, you do not need to remove your front plate, but you are not required to keep it. Some drivers choose to keep it for consistency; others remove it. Check your new state's specific rules, as a few states have minor variations in how they handle this situation.

Do not attempt to use plates from your previous state in your new state, even temporarily. Once you register your vehicle in the new state, you must use that state's plates. Driving with out-of-state plates after you have established residency is illegal and can result in a citation.

How to install a front license plate correctly

If you receive a front plate, install it on the front of your vehicle in a location that is clearly visible and not obscured by the bumper, grille, or any other part of the vehicle. Most vehicles have pre-drilled holes or a mounting bracket on the front bumper or frame designed for this purpose.

Use the mounting hardware provided with your plate — typically bolts and a bracket. Drill new holes only if your vehicle does not have existing mounting points. Position the plate so that it is level and centered, and may support that all characters are legible and not covered by dirt, snow, or other debris.

Some states specify the exact height at which a front plate must be mounted, usually between 12 and 48 inches from the ground. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for specific installation requirements. If your plate is not installed correctly or is obscured, you can be cited even in a state that requires front plates.

Temporary plates and front plate requirements

When you purchase a new vehicle and receive temporary registration, the temporary plate is usually a paper document that you display in your rear window. If you are in a state that requires front plates, you are still required to display a front plate during the temporary registration period — you cannot wait until your permanent plates arrive.

Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to request a temporary front plate if your new vehicle does not have one. Some states issue temporary front plates automatically; others require you to request one. Do not drive without a front plate in a state that requires one, even if you are waiting for your permanent plates to arrive.

Vanity plates and front plate requirements

If you order a vanity plate in a state that requires front plates, you will receive two vanity plates — one for the front and one for the rear. You must display both. The cost of vanity plates varies by state but typically ranges from $25 to $100 per year in addition to your regular registration fee.

Some states allow you to order a vanity plate for the rear only and display your standard-issue plate on the front. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to see whether this option is available in your state. If you want matching vanity plates on both the front and rear, you will need to order a full set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a ticket for not having a front plate if I just moved to a state that requires one?

Yes. Once you register your vehicle in the new state, you are required to display a front plate if that state requires one. You should obtain and install the front plate before you drive on public roads. If you are waiting for your plates to arrive, contact your Department of Motor Vehicles about obtaining a temporary front plate.

What if my vehicle does not have mounting holes for a front plate?

You can purchase an aftermarket mounting bracket designed for your vehicle model, or you can drill holes in the front bumper or frame. Many auto parts stores sell universal mounting brackets. If you are uncomfortable drilling holes, a mechanic or auto body shop can install the bracket for you, usually for $20 to $50.

Do I need a front plate if I only drive on private property?

Front plate requirements explore only to vehicles driven on public roads. If you drive only on private property, you are not required to display a front plate even in a state that requires one. However, once you drive on any public road, you must comply with that state's plate requirements.

Can I cover my front plate with a clear protective cover?

Most states allow clear protective covers over license plates, but some restrict them. A few states prohibit any cover that makes the plate harder to read or photograph. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for specific rules about plate covers before you install one.

What if I lose my front plate?

Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to report the lost plate and request a replacement. You will typically need to provide your vehicle registration number and pay a replacement fee, usually $5 to $15. Do not drive without a front plate in a state that requires one while you wait for the replacement to arrive.