- Texas car owners must have front and rear license plates on automobiles unless the law states otherwise. Failing to follow the Texas front license plate law can lead to a fine of up to $200 under the Texas Transportation Code (§504.943). The statute also classifies the offense as a misdemeanor.
- The courts may drop the charges if you meet Texas front license plate law criteria and attach a front license plate to your vehicle. You must also pay a $10 reimbursement fee. Drivers who fail to install a front license plate may face fines for each traffic stop and citation and experience more severe legal consequences.
- Vehicles must display a visible front and rear license plate on the exterior of an automobile without obstructions. Using a license plate frame is permissible as long as there are no obstructions to any part of the plate’s identifying information.
- You cannot use a tinted or reflective material on the license plate, making reading it more challenging.
- A license plate should be in the horizontal position and securely attached. Measuring from the bottom, a license plate cannot be less than 12 inches from the ground unless laws permit, because of the type of vehicle. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, a working license plate light is necessary so that it is visible as an automobile travels on the highway.
Are There Exemptions to the Front License Plate Law in Texas?
Texas provides some exemptions to the front license plate law. However, most standard automobiles require a front and back license plate. Motor vehicles exempt from displaying two license plates include the following:
- Motorcycles
- Trailers
- Semi-trailers
- Road tractors
Planned communities may have laws in place allowing the use of unique vehicles in specific areas and roadways. Texas requires unique vehicles to have an off-highway vehicle license plate, which is mounted only on the back of the unit. Accidents can occur despite the type of vehicle you use and require their drivers and other roadway users to observe applicable laws to prevent accidents. Reviewing Texas license plate laws that apply to your motor vehicle will provide the necessary information to adhere to Texas transportation guidelines.
What if My Car Has No Brackets for a Front License Plate?
Some newer cars and sports model vehicles do not have a place to mount a front license plate. Texas still requires adhering to the law. A manufacturer may offer an optional front license plate bracket for purchase to keep drivers compliant and ensure a front plate does not obstruct a vehicle’s autopilot systems.
As cars offer more autonomous options to drivers, accurately identifying negligent parties in a car crash in Houston is crucial to recovering damages. Self-driving and partial-driving automation car accidents can leave you unsure who is responsible for your injuries and costs. Houston car accident and injury attorney Steve Lee can navigate these and other complex cases for you.
Displaying a front license plate on a vehicle’s dashboard and viewable through the windshield is illegal in Texas. Address missing license plates with law enforcement if you are in an accident with a car that does not display both. Accident scenes can be chaotic, and missing critical details is possible.
What is the Purpose of the Texas Front License Plate Law?
Vehicle identification is simpler, with license plates on the front and back of an automobile. Dual placement is beneficial for officers enforcing Texas highway laws. A plate’s number is visible whether law enforcement approaches from the rear or the front of a car.
Identification and Law Enforcement Safety
A front license plate, in addition to the back plate, can provide necessary information faster to officers. Traffic stops can lead to interactions with potentially dangerous occupants, creating unknown threats. Two license plates also improve efficiency in traffic stops.
Public Safety
Houston car accidents require quick action to gather information safely. A front license plate may allow you to snap a picture quickly to aid with an insurance claim while remaining safe from oncoming traffic. Front and back license plates also simplify identifying vehicles when an unlawful action occurs, such as a Houston hit-and-run accident.
Monitoring Traffic and Toll Roads
As Houston’s road systems become more complex, major highways and interstates, like the Gulf Freeway and Sam Houston Tollway, utilize cameras to charge drivers using the highway system. Front license plates make monitoring traffic and enforcing tolls more uniform. Front license plates also make identifying drivers with unpaid tolls more efficient.
Does Not Having a Front License Plate Impact Negligence in a Houston Car Crash?
Being in an accident with a motor vehicle missing a front license plate does not make the other driver negligent. Failing to mount a license plate on the front bumper properly may lead to other fines and fees. Holding a driver legally responsible for your damages is a civil action that a Houston car accident attorney can file on your behalf.
Contact a Houston Car Accident and Injury Attorney Near You
Adhering to state guidelines, like the front license plate law, is part of keeping yourself and other drivers safe in Texas. Our Houston car accident and injury attorneys can help you legally pursue compensation for your damages in complex auto accidents. Steve M. Lee, P.C. has a proven track record in Houston personal injury cases and car accidents.