In general, there are no exceptions to the front license plate rule in New York State. Some drivers opt to place their front license plate on their dashboard—visible through their windshield—instead of on their front bumper. Unfortunately, this could result in a ticket as it is not allowed.

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What is the penalty for driving without a front license plate in New York?

A law enforcement officer will likely pull you over if they see you driving without a front plate. You’ll most likely be issued a ticket, which could result in a fine. You may be able to request that a judge excuse the fine if you acquire a front license plate prior to your court date—but this isn’t a guarantee.

You can also be issued a ticket (and pay a subsequent fine) if the legibility of either of your license plates is obstructed in any way. This includes license plate covers, as well as snow or ice covering up the plate. Additionally, if your plate is damaged to the point that it is difficult to read, you must replace it with a fresh plate.

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Which US states do not require a front license plate?

Most—but not all—states are “two-plate states.” Here’s the list of U.S. states that don’t currently 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

Why New York requires a front license plate

There are actually good reasons for front license plates—namely, they help prevent crime.

That’s right—legible license plates play an important role in helping police identify stolen vehicles. If your car is stolen, for example, having two license plates doubles the chance that law enforcement officers can identify your vehicle out on the road.

It can also help you identify other vehicles. For example, if you’re in an accident with someone who refuses to provide you with their name and/or insurance information, glancing at their license plate number will be an incredible help. This is much easier to do if you don’t have to walk all the way around the vehicle!

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Which states have the highest rate of car theft?

According to data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Service,

Colorado

New Mexico

, and

California

suffer from some of the highest rates of car theft in the nation.

That doesn’t mean that New Yorkers are entirely spared, however. There were an estimated 721,885 thefts of motor vehicles nationwide in 2019, and the NYPD reported in 2022 that car theft rates are up 51% this year in New York City.

Of course, more rural New York areas don’t suffer from vehicle theft rates that are quite as severe, but if you live in a major metropolitan area like New York City or Buffalo, a front plate will help you combat this serious risk.

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How to find cheap car insurance in New York

New York’s license plate laws aren’t the only rules in place to keep you and your vehicle safe. The Empire State also boasts some of the most comprehensive minimum liability insurance requirements in the nation.

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