Is My License Plate Frame Legal in New Mexico?

New Mexico allows license plate frames as long as they do not cover any of the letters or numbers on the plate.
Written by Sarah Gray
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
background
Our cars say as much about our style as our clothes—and in
New Mexico
, you can add to your style with a license plate frame. As long as the frame doesn’t obstruct the view of any part of the license plate or the registration sticker, it’s perfectly legal.
Finding the perfect license plate frame to fit your style can be tricky, but you also need to make sure it complies with New Mexico’s guidelines. Here's what you need to know about them.
Yes—license plate frames are legal in New Mexico as long as they don’t cover or conceal any part of the plate or the registration sticker.
MORE: New Mexico license plates

What are the rules for license plate frames in New Mexico?

New Mexico law states that license plate covers and frames “may not obstruct from view any portion of the plate including registration stickers.”
So, as long as the entire plate is completely visible—even the “Land of Enchantment” or “Chile Capital of the World” mottos—your license plate frame is legal.

What about license plate covers?

Yes. Both license plate frames and covers are legal in New Mexico. Covers may be plastic or glass, but they cannot be tinted in a way that obscures their content from law enforcement.

What are the fines for license plate frames in New Mexico?

Driving with an unreadable license plate carries a fine of $25, plus $65 in court fees.
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