Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

Are purple license plate lights illegal?

I installed a black light under my car to add a bit of style when I’m driving around. I was thinking about doing the same around my license plate, but I want to make sure it’s OK. Are purple license plates legal in the U.S.?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Unfortunately, purple license plate lights are illegal in all 50 states. If you switch out your license plate bulb or put purple lights around the license plate, you can get a
ticket
and a fine for doing so.
The reason that purple license plate lights are illegal is because they obscure the view of your plates by law enforcement. As a result, your license plate lights must always use clear or frosted bulbs that provide white light.
If you’re looking for a little extra bling or style, buy a purple license plate frame instead. This won’t break any laws and will give you the look that you’ve been wanting.
The most important factor surrounding your license plate is to keep your tags up to date. If you don’t you risk fines and tickets from law enforcement, which may increase your car insurance rates.
But if you’re taking the time to look up the law, why not take a few extra minutes to compare car insurance rates with the
Jerry
app?
Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that will collect quotes from over 50 top-rated insurers in minutes. After you find a great rate, Jerry can help you buy new insurance and cancel your old policy. Users save an average of $887 per year.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings