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Do You Need A Front License Plate In Texas?

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Written by: Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Last Updated : January 14, 2025

Whether you’re buying your first vehicle in Texas or you’re a transplant from another state who already owns a car, it’s important to follow the rules of the road and avoid moving violations, car accidents, and so on. This includes making sure you display the right number of license plates.

Does Texas require plates on both the back and front of the vehicle? Why is it so important to know and follow the rules for license plates? Learn these answers and more in this overview of license plate laws in Texas.

License Plate Laws In Texas

According to Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §217.27, vehicles registered in the state are required to display two license plates on the vehicle’s exterior, one on the front and one on the back. License plates must be securely fastened in an upright, horizontal position no fewer than 12 inches from the ground. They must also be clearly visible, readable, and legible.

Specified vehicles, including road tractors, trailers, semi-trailers, and motorcycles, are exempt. They are only required to display a rear license plate that’s securely fastened to the exterior no fewer than 12 inches from the ground.

Over the last several years, there has been some confusion surrounding plate laws. The questions started with a 2012 revision to the Texas Transportation Code that erroneously removed a provision mandating penalties for failing to display two license plates.

The oversight was subsequently corrected in a 2013 amendment, but the mix-up continued to cause issues for some time. More recently, Texas lawmakers have attempted to change license plate laws without success.

For instance, State Representative Will Metcalf proposed House Bill 1199 in 2021 with the goal of requiring only a rear license plate for passenger cars and light trucks. The idea was to eliminate penalties associated with failing to attach a plate to the vehicle’s front. The bill didn’t pass.

Why Would Vehicle Owners Fail To Attach A Front Plate?

The main issue vehicle owners have with attaching a license plate to the front of the car is that some makes and models don’t offer an easy (or any) way to do so. However, owners are still responsible for attaching the required license plates, even when manufacturers fail to include a mounting bracket.

Reasons To Follow The Rules Of The Road

As a driver, you should know that failing to comply with license plate laws could result in penalties. Unless your vehicle is exempt, you risk receiving a fine of $200 for failing to attach a front license plate.

This is a misdemeanor offense. However, the charge may be dropped if you remedy the situation by attaching a front plate before your first court appearance. You will also have to pay a reimbursement fee of $10.

The more important reason for all Texas drivers to follow the two-plate rule is for situations like moving violations and hit-and-run accidents. Law enforcement officers and citizens alike may need to identify a vehicle with only a front view, and a front license plate makes this possible.

For example, suppose that you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist who flees the scene. With both a front and rear license plate in place, you have a better chance of identifying the vehicle and finding the driver to pursue charges and compensation.

What To Do If You’re Injured In An Accident

Texas license plate laws are designed to protect law-abiding drivers and help police officers do their jobs. If you’re involved in an accident causing damage and injuries, you should first note the license plate of the at-fault vehicle.

This is essential information, whether the driver remains at the scene or flees. You should pass it along to your insurance provider and car accident attorney.

Contact The Dallas Car Accident Law Firm of Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Dallas, TX, contact us for more information, please contact the experienced Dallas car accident lawyers at Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers today. We offer free consultations.

We proudly serve in Dallas County and its surrounding areas:

Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers
1825 Market Center Blvd # 350, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 777-7777
Hours Open: 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Dallas.
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.7950252,-96.8241861

 

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