Arkansas likes to keep it simple, especially when it comes to license plate laws. If you’re new to the state, you may be relieved to find out that Arkansas doesn’t require a front license plate like other states—but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other rules to follow.

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Does Arkansas require front license plates?

Nope—Arkansas does not have a front license plate requirement. Rear plates, however, have been required since 1944.

According to

Section 27-14-716

of the Arkansas Code, if you’re only issued one license plate, it must be attached to the rear. Trucks of one-ton capacity or larger can choose to display the license plate on the front or rear of the vehicle.

This law also dictates that your license plate must be securely fastened horizontally to the vehicle in a way that prevents it from swinging. It must be at least 12 inches from the ground, clearly visible, and free from foreign materials.

Any type of cover—like a

large license plate frame

or bike rack—that obscures the license plate, makes it difficult to read, or reduces the reflectivity of the plate is illegal. These rules go for

personalized license plates

and special plates, too, like college plates or military plates.

MORE:

How to transfer a private number plate to your vehicle

Exceptions

Arkansas drivers only need a rear license plate in almost every case. While Arkansas law does not specify when a vehicle may be issued with two license plates, it does state that if you are issued two license plates, you must attach one to the front and one to the rear. If the DMV provides you with two plates, you should assume you need to display both of them.

What is the penalty for a license plate violation in Arkansas?

The license plate laws in Arkansas are pretty straightforward, but improper display of a license plate is a primary offense in the state. That means you can be pulled over for a license plate violation without any other reason.

While Arkansas doesn’t list specific fine amounts for violations, you can probably expect a fine of up to $120. However, license plate infractions are considered non-moving violations, so they aren’t likely to affect your

car insurance

rates.

MORE:

The traffic tickets that have the greatest effect on your car insurance rates

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Which US states do not require a front license plate?

Thirty-one US states require a front license plate in addition to the rear plate, so Arkansas is in the minority. Here are the 19 states that do not require a front license plate:

Alabama

Arizona

Arkansas

Delaware

Florida

Georgia

Indiana

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Michigan

Mississippi

New Mexico

North Carolina

Oklahoma

Pennsylvania

South Carolina

Tennessee

West Virginia

MORE:

Buying a car in Arkansas

Which states have the highest rate of car theft?

Having two license plates helps law enforcement track and identify car thefts.

Arkansas as a whole doesn’t have very high rates of car theft, which could contribute to the state not requiring a front license plate.

Even with low theft rates across the state, some Arkansas cities can’t say the same. In fact, for cities with the highest theft rates across the entire US, Pine Bluff ranked number 29. Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Conway also have higher theft rates.

Arkansans may not have a front license plate to keep their vehicles safe, but there are plenty of other ways to keep your car safe. As a bonus, adding extra

anti-theft devices

will help keep you safe, while also possibly lowering your

car insurance

rates!

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