If you’re driving in New York and your vehicle doesn’t have a front license plate, you may wonder if that’s a problem. The short answer is yes; you can get a ticket for not displaying a front license plate if your vehicle requires one.
State law mandates specific guidelines regarding license plates, and failure to comply can result in fines, points on your license, and other penalties. Let’s break down the law and how to defend a ticket for no front license plate in New York.
What Does New York Law Say About Front License Plates?
New York requires vehicles with two license plates—one for the front and one for the rear—to display both. This requirement applies to most passenger vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Motorcycles, trailers, and certain other vehicles only receive one plate and are, therefore, exempt from this requirement.
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 402, license plates must be:
- Securely fastened to the front and rear of the vehicle.
- Displayed visibly without obstruction.
- Properly lit at night for visibility.
If your car doesn’t have a designated spot for a front plate (common with sports cars or vehicles designed for states with no front plate requirement), you may still be required to affix one using a mounting bracket or other method.
What Are the Penalties for No Front License Plate in New York?
Driving without a front license plate when one is required can result in fines of up to $200 and $93 in surcharges. While the penalty may seem minor, repeated offenses or additional violations during the same stop can quickly add up. Equipment violations may not result in points; however, if the lack of a front plate is part of a larger traffic stop (e.g., speeding), points could be assessed for other violations.
Are There Exceptions to the Rule?
In some cases, drivers may be exempt from displaying a front license plate:
- Classic Cars and Collectibles: Vehicles registered as antiques may have different requirements.
- Out-of-State Vehicles: If you’re driving a vehicle registered in a state that doesn’t issue front plates, you won’t be penalized in New York if you comply with your home state’s laws.
How Can Law Enforcement Spot a Missing Front Plate?
Law enforcement can identify missing front plates during routine patrols, at checkpoints, or through automated license plate readers (ALPRs). These readers scan license plates for information; missing plates can trigger an alert.
Even if you’re parked, a parking enforcement officer could issue you a ticket for failing to display a front plate. This is particularly common in urban areas like New York City.
What Should You Do If You’re Ticketed?
If you’ve been issued a ticket for no front license plate, don’t panic. While it may seem straightforward, there are options to challenge the ticket or minimize its impact:
- Review the Ticket: Ensure all the details are accurate, including your vehicle’s make, model, and plate number.
- Contact a Traffic Ticket Attorney: An experienced attorney can review your case and help you understand your options. In some cases, they may be able to negotiate for a reduced fine or dismissal.
- Address Other Violations: If the missing plate was part of a larger traffic stop, resolving those issues may also mitigate penalties.
Talk To a Traffic Ticket Lawyer in New York
If you’ve received a ticket for not having a front license plate, The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers can help. Contact us today for a free consultation!
