Is Texas A Two-Plate State? Front And Rear License Plates
Texas has dozens of traffic laws on the books, each of which is designed to address specific public safety concerns. One such law requires drivers to have two license plates. Most registered vehicles in Texas must have both a front and rear plate. Here’s everything you need to know.
Does Texas Require Front And Rear License Plates?
Yes. According to Texas Administrative Code 217.27, your motor vehicle must have identical front and rear license plates issued by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
Like many states that require two plates, Texas has transitioned away from license plate registration stickers. Instead, most vehicles have windshield stickers that serve as your proof of registration.
To comply with Texas state law, you’ll need an up-to-date registration sticker and both license plates. These provisions are important for safety and law enforcement purposes.
What Is The Purpose Of Front And Rear Plates?
By requiring front and rear license plates, Texas officials are able to:
Promote Traffic Enforcement
Speeding and speed-related accidents are a major concern in Texas, especially in and around busy cities like Fort Worth. Front and rear plates make it easier for law enforcement officers to identify speeders and take enforcement action. They can use these plates to identify vehicles and drivers, issue citations, and help make our roads safer.
Front and rear license plates, such as red light cameras, also assist in unmanned traffic enforcement efforts. These cameras can capture front and rear views of a vehicle, which helps verify the registered owner’s identity and reduce the risk of citations being issued to the wrong person.
Assist With Vehicle And Driver Identification
Front and rear plates can also aid driver identification in a wide range of scenarios. For instance, having both plates increases the odds that a witness or security camera will capture suspect vehicle information during hit-and-run accidents. Law enforcement officials can also rely on the second plate to confirm a driver’s identity in severe crashes where the other is damaged.
Aid In Crime Prevention
Law enforcement officers commonly use vehicle identifiers such as registration stickers and license plate numbers for criminal investigations. Requiring both plates makes it easier for police officers to identify suspect vehicles and take enforcement action.
What Are The Penalties For Not Having Both Plates?
If you operate your vehicle without both front and rear license plates, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine of up to $200. Receiving a ticket could also increase your car insurance costs.
How To Get A Replacement Plate
If one of your license plates is damaged, lost, or unreadable due to wear and tear, you need to get a replacement right away. Fortunately, replacement plates are just $6 each. The state also charges a $0.50 automation fee. You can apply for a replacement plate online and pick it up at your local county tax assessor’s office.
Stay Up To Date On Texas Traffic Laws
The two-plate requirement in Texas is a law that’s designed to reduce traffic accidents and promote public safety. While it’s an important rule to know, it’s just one of many. Traffic laws are updated almost every year. Make sure you are aware of the latest requirements in Texas so that you can help keep the roads of Fort Worth safer while also avoiding fines and other penalties.
Contact the Personal Injury Law Firm of Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers in Bedford for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Fort Worth and Bedford, Texas.
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth
209 N Hampton St,
Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 510-9400
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Bedford
2317 Plaza Pkwy #100,
Bedford, TX 76021
(817) 503-9200
