Oklahoma
is a “one-plate state” that does not require drivers to display a front license plate on their vehicle. Does Oklahoma require a front license plate?
No—Oklahoma does not require drivers to display a front license plate. And it’s been that way for a long time! State law has not dictated the need for a front license plate on passenger vehicles since the 1940s, although drivers should still have a rear license plate present and visible at all times on their cars.
What about personalized license plates and special plates? The same rules apply—you only need to display your plate on the back of your car. Even if you opt to place your specialized plate on the front of your vehicle, you’ll still need to have a second, identical plate affixed to the rear.
Exemptions
While most motor and passenger vehicles only need a single license plate to take to the roads legally, there are a few exceptions:
Trucks registered under the International Registration provisions
Trucks exceeding 26,000 pounds
Vehicles that fall under the above qualifications must have both a front and rear license plate.
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning nowPenalties for driving without a license plate in Oklahoma
Driving without a proper license plate is a misdemeanor under Oklahoma law, meaning a police officer can pull you over if you fail to display your rear license plate correctly.
An example of an incorrect license plate display would be propping your plate in the rear windshield—while it’s technically visible, it’s not clear, and certainly not legal. A misdemeanor charge in Oklahoma can be punishable by a fine of up to $500.
RECOMMENDEDNo spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
Which US states do not require a front license plate?
Many of Oklahoma’s Midwestern neighbors have also foregone a front license plate requirement. The following 18 states have no front license plate requirement:
Why Oklahoma does not require a front license plate
Front license plates can be vital tools for law enforcement looking to identify stolen vehicles, issue traffic violations, or stop criminals in their tracks. They can also help identify vehicles and make cars easier to spot on dark roads. So why aren’t they required?
For one, removing the front license plate requirement saves both drivers and the state money. Producing extra plates to tack onto passenger vehicles costs money and wastes resources that could otherwise be better invested into the state’s transportation budget (e.g. for fixing roads and filling potholes).
Additionally, many other bordering states are moving—or have already moved—to a single-plate requirement. To change Oklahoma law now could mean creating conflict with neighboring one-plate states—not to mention creating an added burden for drivers who frequently cross state borders.
Despite the benefits of a single-plate requirement, some Oklahomans still push for change. In 2020, a bill intended to introduce a two-plate requirement to passenger vehicles was presented to the state legislature. Ultimately, it failed to pass—but may return to the ballot in future elections.
“Just for state minimum liability, I was getting quotes from $70 to over $100/month until I found Jerry
. Now my car insurance is under $30/month, or $140 for 6 months. Thank you, Jerry!” —Frank S.
Saved $725 annually
4.7
