Do You Need a Front License Plate in Delray Beach, FL?

Florida drivers enjoy more flexibility than residents of many other states when it comes to license plates. If you’re new to Delray Beach or just purchased a vehicle, you may be wondering whether Florida law requires you to display a front license plate. 

The answer is straightforward: in Florida, unless an exception applies, you do not need a front license plate. The law generally only requires one plate, and it must be mounted on the rear of the vehicle.

Still, there are some important details you should know if you’re driving in Florida or planning to visit from out of state.

What Does Florida Law Say About License Plates?

Under Florida Statutes § 320.06, every vehicle registered in the state must display a license plate on the rear of the vehicle. Unlike many states that require both front and rear plates, Florida usually issues only one plate per vehicle. This applies to most passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks.

The law also requires that:

  • The plate must be clearly visible and securely fastened
  • The plate must be kept clean and free from obstructions
  • The registration decal must be displayed in the upper right corner of the plate

There are only a few exceptions to this law. These apply to commercial trucks (front and rear plates are needed), dump trucks (the rear plate’s placement can be adjusted for visibility), and truck tractors (only a front plate is needed). 

What if You’re Visiting Delray Beach From Out of State?

If you’re visiting Delray Beach from a state that requires front license plates, you must continue to follow your home state’s laws while driving in Florida. Police officers will expect your vehicle to display both plates if that’s what your state requires.

However, if you become a Florida resident and register your vehicle in the state, you will be issued only a rear plate, and that is all that will be legally required.

Could Having a Front Plate Be Illegal in Florida?

While it’s not illegal to have a front plate in Florida, you should avoid displaying a decorative or non-official plate that might confuse law enforcement or violate plate display laws. For example, if you mount a fake plate on the front of your car that resembles a real license plate, you could be stopped or fined under certain circumstances.

If you keep a front plate bracket or holder on your vehicle for aesthetic purposes or out of habit, that’s typically fine. Just make sure the plate you are legally required to display is mounted on the rear and is clearly visible.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer if You’ve Been in a Crash

License plate laws may seem like a small detail, but in the context of a car accident or legal claim, they can matter. For example, police officers may use a license plate’s visibility to confirm who was driving or determine fault in a collision. If you’ve been involved in an accident in Delray Beach, it’s a good idea to speak with a personal injury lawyer who understands Florida traffic law.

Most car accident attorneys offer free consultations, so you can get some initial legal advice about your case at no charge. They also work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay attorney’s fees if you secure compensation.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Delray Beach, and need legal help, contact our Delray Beach car accident lawyers at The Injury Law Firm, PA to schedule a free consultation.

The Injury Law Firm, PA.
301 W. Atlantic Ave, Suite O-1
Delray Beach, FL 33444

(561) 800-4357