Stephens Law Firm | April 8, 2025 | Car Accidents
You’ve likely noticed that some vehicles on the road have both a front and a rear license plate — and some just have a rear plate. Texas requires cars to have both a front plate and a rear plate, but not all states do. Here’s a look at which states require two license plates — and why some states don’t require a front plate.
Which States Require A Front And A Rear License Plate?
Texas is in good company — it’s one of 29 states requiring both a front and a rear license plate.
These are all states that require a front plate:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Generally, states that require drivers to have two license plates impose fines and other penalties for failing to comply with these regulations. For example, in Texas, driving without a front plate is a misdemeanor crime. If you’re caught driving with just one license plate (or no license plates at all), you could face a fine of up to $200.
Most states that require a front license plate have at least a few exceptions.
In Texas, you may not need a front plate in these situations:
- If the vehicle in question is a trailer or motorcycle
- If your car is an antique
- If your car was built without a spot for a front license plate
If you live in a state that does not require a front plate, your car is registered there, and you drive through Texas, this fine does not apply. For instance, if you live in Tennessee (a state that only requires one license plate) and you visit Texas, you won’t be ticketed or fined for not having a front plate.
Why Do States Have Different Laws Regarding Front Plates?
In the U.S., there are 29 states that require a front license plate and 21 states that do not. Each individual state makes laws regarding license plate requirements, and there are valid arguments for requiring or not requiring front plates.
Why Require Front License Plates?
Many states require front license plates because having two license plates makes cars easier to identify — especially in hit-and-run accidents. Cars with two plates are also easier for traffic cameras and electronic ticketing systems to identify.
Why Not Require Front License Plates?
There are a couple of different reasons some states do not require front license plates. Namely, only requiring one license plate cuts down on costs. When each registered vehicle needs one license plate instead of two, it cuts demands on raw materials and labor in half.
To a lesser extent, it may also reduce enforcement costs. If a vehicle only needs a rear plate, that’s one less thing for police to monitor when out on patrol.
One common argument against front license plates is that on some vehicle models, manufacturers have not created a place for a license plate. To mount a license plate on these vehicles, the owner may need to drill through the bumper.
The Importance of Following License Plate Laws
Part of being a responsible driver is ensuring your vehicle is properly registered and insured and that your license plates are properly displayed. In Texas, not having two proper license plates can result in a criminal record — something you want to avoid.
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth and Weatherford personal injury lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 406
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents – Weatherford Office
109 York Ave Suite #201
Weatherford, TX 76086
(817) 409-7000
