You may have noticed that some vehicles in California do not display a front license plate. This has led to confusion about whether a front license plate is actually required under California law. The short answer is yes: for most vehicles registered in California, a front license plate is legally required. The fact that some drivers may ignore this rule does not change the law.
Understanding California’s license plate rules, their purpose, and the exceptions that may apply to your vehicle can help you avoid unnecessary stress. If questions arise after a collision or traffic stop, our car accident lawyers can help you understand how these rules may affect your situation.
What California Law Says About License Plates
California Vehicle Code Section 5200 requires most passenger vehicles to display two license plates at all times when the California Department of Motor Vehicles has issued two for the vehicle.
This includes:
- One license plate mounted on the front of the vehicle, and
- One license plate mounted on the rear of the vehicle.
Both plates must be securely fastened, clearly visible, and kept in a condition that allows them to be read easily. Plates should not be obstructed, altered, or placed in a way that makes them difficult to see. A plate placed on your dashboard or inside your windshield does not meet this requirement and may result in fines or penalties.
Why California Requires Front License Plates
The front license plate requirement is not just a formality. It serves important functions in how the state manages safety, accountability, and traffic.
Some of these functions include:
- Identifying vehicles after car accidents
- Supporting red-light, speed, and toll enforcement systems
- Assisting with parking enforcement in cities and private lots
- Helping locate vehicles involved in crimes or accidents
These practical considerations explain why California has consistently maintained its two-plate requirement, even as some other states have adopted single-plate laws over time.
Are There Exceptions to California’s Front License Plate Law?
Even though California law generally requires a front license plate, it is common to see vehicles without one. This can create the impression that the rule is rarely enforced or that certain vehicles are exempt. There are some exceptions to California’s general requirement that vehicles display front license plates.
Exceptions may apply to:
- Motorcycles and trailers
- Antique, vintage, and special-interest vehicles
- Vehicles that were issued only one plate
- Vehicles operating under temporary permits or special registrations
An exception is unlikely to apply to the average California-registered car. Be sure to affix both a front and rear license plate to your vehicle if the California Department of Motor Vehicles issued two plates. A vehicle registered in California is expected to comply with the law, regardless of what other drivers do.
What if I Get Pulled Over for Driving Without a Front License Plate in California?
Driving without a front license plate is generally considered a correctable violation. These are sometimes called “fix-it tickets.”
If cited, you may be required to:
- Install a front license plate properly,
- Have the correction verified by law enforcement or an authorized official, and
- Pay a reduced fine and administrative fee.
There are many ways to mount a front license plate to your vehicle, and fortunately, the citation is usually resolved once you do so without further penalty. However, ignoring the violation or repeatedly driving without a front plate can result in higher fines or additional citations.
Contact Our California Car Accident Lawyers at Mercado Kramer, LLP for a Free Consultation
For most vehicles registered in California, a front license plate is not optional. It is required by law. Enforcement may vary from place to place, but the legal obligation remains the same. Properly installing a front license plate is a small step that can help prevent citations, avoid traffic stops, and eliminate inconvenience.
If you think your vehicle may qualify for an exception or are unsure about compliance, the safest course is to confirm with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Taking the time to verify the requirements can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
For more information, please contact our experienced California personal injury attorneys at Mercado Kramer, LLP, for a free consultation. We have offices in Salinas and San Jose, CA, and we serve throughout Monterey County.
Mercado Kramer, LLP.
450 Lincoln Ave Ste. 102, Salinas, CA 93901
(888) 311 4050
