Question

Can a license plate frame cover the state name?

No, it is illegal to cover the state name with a license plate frame. Law enforcement clearly states that the entire plate should be visible without any covering. If not, there will be potential fines, and severe misdemeanor charges may also be imposed.

What are the details of a license plate that cannot be covered? 

Traffic laws require certain details to stay fully visible. They are: 

• State name 
• Registration stickers/tags 
• Plate number 
• Expiration date 

Why is it important not to cover details on the license plate? 

Enforcement cameras and officers rely on license plates to get details about the vehicle.

Laws are strict on plates, and they must be “clearly legible” and “unobstructed.” 

What are the legal guidelines for using license plate frames? 

Even slightly covering the state name or the letters or numbers at the bottom with a frame can still be illegal in many places. 

Any covers or frames, whether clear, tinted, metal, or plastic, can be illegal and should not be used if they obstruct the plate. 

Stickers provided by dealerships that hide any part of the state name or registration are completely illegal. 

License plates should be clearly visible and kept in a condition that law enforcement can easily read.