If you’re a vehicle owner in California, you might be wondering about the proper way to display your license plates. Whether you’ve just purchased a new car or you’re concerned about compliance with state laws, understanding California’s license plate regulations is crucial.
If you don’t comply with the laws, you could get charged with a crime and face penalties. Let’s break down the key points of California Vehicle Code Section 5200: Display of License Plates. If you’ve been charged with this crime, contact our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers now.
Why Proper License Plate Display Matters
Complying with license plate laws is important for several reasons:
- It ensures law enforcement can easily identify vehicles
- It facilitates automated systems like toll collection and emissions testing
- Proper display can help avoid unnecessary traffic stops and tickets
Understanding Basic License Plate Display Rules
California law is quite specific about how you should display your license plates. Here’s what you need to know:
Two-Plate Requirement
Most vehicles in California are required to display two license plates:
- One plate must be attached to the front of the vehicle
- The other plate must be attached to the rear of the vehicle
Single-Plate Exceptions
There are some exceptions to the two-plate rule:
- If you’re issued only one plate, it should be attached to the rear of your vehicle
- Truck tractors have a single plate that should be displayed according to specific regulations
Proper Mounting of License Plates
When attaching your license plates, keep these requirements in mind:
- Plates must be securely fastened to prevent swinging
- They should be clearly visible
- Characters must be upright and display from left to right
- Plates must be maintained in a clearly legible condition
Specific Placement Requirements for License Plates
California law provides detailed guidelines for the positioning of license plates. Rear license plates must be mounted between 12 and 60 inches from the ground. Front plates must be mounted no more than 60 inches from the ground.
Special Vehicle Exceptions
Some vehicles have different rear plate placement requirements:
- Tow trucks and repossessor’s tow vehicles: 12 to 90 inches from the ground, on the left side of the mast assembly
- Tank vehicles hauling hazardous waste or asphalt: 12 to 90 inches from the ground
- Truck tractors: 12 to 90 inches from the ground, at the rear of the cab
- Garbage trucks: 12 to 90 inches from the ground
- Two-axle livestock trailers: 12 to 90 inches from the ground
- Dump bed motor trucks with trailing, load-bearing swing axles: 12 to 107 inches from the ground
Special Accommodations for Disability Equipment
California law makes accommodations for vehicles transporting persons with disabilities. Wheelchair lifts or carriers may obstruct the rear license plate if the vehicle owner has a special identification license plate or the wheelchair user has a distinguishing placard. A decal with the license plate number must be displayed on the rear window.
Regulations on License Plate Covers and Frames
California law is strict about anything that might obscure your license plate. Generally, covers are not allowed on license plates. Exceptions include covers used to protect parked vehicles from weather and license plate security covers that don’t obstruct plate information.
You cannot install or affix any device that obstructs or impairs the reading of a license plate by electronic devices or remote emission sensing devices. It’s also illegal to sell products intended to obscure license plates from visual or electronic scanning. Violations can result in a fine of $250 per item sold or per violation.
Registration Tabs and Their Display
California vehicle registration tabs are a crucial part of California license plates. Tabs indicating the year and month of registration expiration must be attached to the rear license plate.
For truck tractors and commercial vehicles over 10,001 pounds GVW, tabs go on the front plate. Fleet vehicles and certain other vehicle types may have different requirements.
What to Do if You’re Accused of a Violation
If you’ve been cited for a display of license plate violation under California Vehicle Code Section 5200-5206, don’t panic. Here are some steps you can take:
- Check your compliance: Review the regulations to ensure you understand the requirements.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of your license plate setup if you believe you comply.
- Consider legal advice: An experienced traffic attorney can help you understand your options.
How Simmrin Law Firm Can Help
At Simmrin Law Firm, we understand that traffic laws can be complex and confusing. If you’re facing issues related to license plate display or other traffic violations in Southern California, we’re here to help.
Our experienced attorneys can:
- Explain your rights and the specifics of the law
- Develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation
- Represent you in court if necessary
Don’t let a license plate violation impact your driving record or lead to unnecessary fines. Contact Simmrin Law Firm today for a consultation, and let us help you navigate these challenging legal waters.