Connor Nash | January 5, 2026 | Car Accidents
Not every state requires vehicles to display a front license plate. Some states mandate plates on both the front and rear of vehicles, while others only require a rear plate. For Dallas drivers who frequently travel or have recently relocated to Texas, being aware of these requirements helps avoid tickets and fines.
Here’s a breakdown of front license plate laws across the country, starting with Texas.
Does Texas Require a Front License Plate?
Yes, Texas requires a front license plate.
According to Texas Transportation Code §504.943, it is a violation to operate a motor vehicle without two license plates that:
- Were issued for the vehicle by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV); and,
- Comply with the TxDMV rules for placement of license plates.
One plate must be on the front of the vehicle, and the other plate must be on the back. The requirement applies to most motor vehicles, including passenger cars and light trucks.
Rules for Placement of Rear and Front License Plates in Texas
Texas license plate laws require that both the front and rear license plates be securely attached, clearly visible, and unobstructed by the vehicle. Plates cannot be covered by or surrounded by materials that can obstruct the information.
License plates should be mounted in the location intended by the vehicle’s manufacturer, such as the rear and front bumper. The plates should be horizontal and at least 12 inches above the ground.
Are There Any Exceptions to Texas’s License Plate Rule?
The two-plate requirement has some exceptions.
Road tractors, semi-trailers, commercial vehicles, and motorcycles are only required to display a rear license plate. Owners may apply for a waiver for certain types of vehicles, such as classic, antique, or custom vehicles. The owner would need to prove that the vehicle cannot be altered to accommodate a front license plate without damaging it.
Penalties for Missing Front Plates in Texas
If your vehicle requires both a rear and a front license plate, you can be charged with a misdemeanor for missing either plate. The charge is punishable by a fine of up to $200.
However, according to the Texas Transportation Code, a court can dismiss the charge if you remedy the matter before the court hearing. In these instances, you could potentially pay a reinstatement fee not to exceed $10.
Other U.S. States That Require Front License Plates
As of 2025, 28 states require front license plates. The laws for license plates can change at any time, so you should always check with your state government agency to determine the current rules for your state.
States that require a front license plate, at least on some vehicles, are:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska (until 2029)
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
The remaining states may only require rear license plates.
Why Do Some States Require Two Plates?
Being required to display two license plates may seem inconvenient and unnecessary. However, the two-plate system helps keep Texas roads safe for everyone.
For example, rear and front license plates make it easier for law enforcement to identify vehicles for traffic violations. Having both a front and a rear license plate also helps traffic cameras correctly identify vehicles.
Dual license plates could help in hit-and-run accident investigations and criminal investigations. Motorists can also identify vehicles by their front or rear plates when reporting reckless driving or suspected drunk drivers who could cause a DWI accident.
Identifying a vehicle involved in an accident is crucial. A driver who causes an accident can be liable for economic and non-economic damages. If a car cannot be identified because the driver fled the scene, accident victims may still be able to recover damages under their uninsured motorist coverage.
Contact Our Dallas Personal Injury Lawyers at Nash Law Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Whether you’re driving in Dallas or traveling out of state, knowing license plate requirements helps you avoid unnecessary fines. Nash Law Personal Injury Lawyers helps Texas drivers understand their legal obligations on the road. If you have questions about a car accident or injury case, call for a free consultation with a Dallas personal injury lawyer.
Contact us today at (214) 831-4414 or visit our Austin law office for a free consultation with a Dallas personal injury lawyer.
Nash Law Personal Injury Lawyers Dallas
2807 Allen St., Suite 2033, Dallas, TX 75204
(214) 831-4414
