Front License Plates in the US: Rules and Exceptions

In certain states, legislation requires drivers to display both a front and rear license plate on their cars.

21:01 15 March 2025

If you drive a vehicle in the United States, you might have noticed that some automobiles have license plates on both the front and back, while others have just the rear plates. This might make you wonder: Why is this? Do all American states require front license plates? The answer depends on where you live.

In certain states, legislation requires drivers to display both a front and rear license plate on their cars. Other states require just one plate on the rear. These regulations are set by states and can vary considerably across the nation.

States That Require Front License Plates

As of today, many states within the U.S. still require individuals to carry a front license plate. These states believe front plates help police identify vehicles more quickly. They also make it easier for police cameras to capture incidents such as speeding or running a red light.

States that require front license plates include:

• California
• New York
• Washington
• Ohio
• Texas
• Illinois

In these states, failing to have a front plate might lead to fines or other penalties. If you recently relocated to a state with this rule, ensure your vehicle complies with local DMV guidelines.

States That Do Not Require Front License Plates

However, several states have dropped the front plate requirement. Some people think front plates are unnecessary, even for personal vehicles. Many vehicle owners also believe that front plates make cars look less appealing.

States without front license plates include:

• Florida
• Arizona
• Pennsylvania
• Michigan
• South Carolina
• Utah

In some of these states, you require only a rear license plate. This could be beneficial if you drive a unique design car or a premium sports car, which often lacks a front plate opening.

Why Do Some States Require Front Plates & Others Do Not?

The reasons below explain why states have different rules concerning front license plates.

• Law Enforcement and Safety: States that require front plates believe they can help police officers and cameras identify vehicles involved in crimes or traffic violations more easily.
• Cost & Convenience: Some states eliminated front plate requirements to cut costs. The government, along with drivers, pay more to create and issue two plates rather than one.
• Vehicle Design and Aesthetics: Many modern automobiles, particularly luxury and sports cars, lack a front plate mount. Car owners in states without front plate requirements prefer the cleaner look of their vehicles.

The Front License Plate Rule has Exceptions

Several exceptions apply even in states that require front license plates. These exceptions might include:

• Classic and Antique Cars - Some states allow older cars (usually more than twenty-five years old) to have just a rear plate.
• Some Sports Cars - Some high-performance cars are exempt if their design lacks a front plate.
• Dealer and Temporary Plates - If you just purchased a car, you may be able to drive with only a rear plate until you receive the official plates.

Final Thoughts: So What If You Drive Across State Lines?

If you reside in a state without a front plate and drive to a state that requires one, do not worry. States recognize each other's vehicle registration laws. If your vehicle is legally registered in a state that requires only a rear plate, you will not be penalized for not having a front plate while visiting another state.

States' front license plate regulations vary considerably. Some require both rear and front plates, others just one. They involve laws about safety, cost, and vehicle design. For details about state rules, contact your local DMV to avoid fines. Understanding these rules helps you remain compliant and avoid unnecessary problems on the road.