Do You Need A Front License Plate In Florida?

Paul Brannon | November 5, 2024 | Florida Law

Do You Need A Front License Plate In Florida?

Most vehicles in Florida don’t require a front plate. Unlike many other states that issue two plates, Florida generally provides a single plate for personal-use vehicles, which must be displayed on the rear.

However, some vehicles do require both front and rear plates under specific conditions. Let’s break down what the law says about front license plates, why they matter, and when you might need one.

Florida’s License Plate Law

Under Florida Statute 320.06, most personal-use vehicles are required to display only one license plate.

Florida drivers enjoy this simplicity, as most vehicles do not need to install or purchase a front license plate holder. That said, different rules apply to different vehicles, and failing to comply can result in penalties.

When Are Front Car Plates Required?

Certain motor vehicles must display both front and rear plates. It’s important to make sure you understand Florida’s requirements if you drive one of the following types of vehicles:

Commercial Trucks

Vehicles with a gross weight of 26,001 pounds or more need plates on both the front and back. This applies to semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles, per Statute 320.0706.

Truck Tractors

These vehicles only require a front license plate. Since tractors pull trailers, the rear plate isn’t necessary for the cab unit.

Dump Trucks (Over 26,001 Pounds)

Dump trucks must have both front and rear plates. The rear plate can be mounted on the tailgate as long as it’s no more than 60 inches off the ground for visibility’s sake.

Mounting Requirements For Front License Plates

If your vehicle falls under one of these exceptions, mounting the front plate correctly is essential. The state has specific guidelines for license plate display to ensure visibility and proper identification:

  • Height: Plates must be mounted between 12 and 60 inches off the ground
  • Position: Plates must be placed within 24 inches of the vehicle’s centerline
  • Fastening: Plates must be securely attached to prevent swinging or displacement during movement
  • Visibility: All numbers and letters must be readable from 100 feet away and free from obstructions, including tinted covers
  • Alignment: Plates should be aligned to read from left to right and parallel to the ground

Following these mounting rules is critical to avoid penalties, especially in pedestrian and car accidents where license plate visibility might play a role in reporting or identifying the vehicles involved.

What Happens If You Violate The Plate Rules?

Failing to display a front plate when required could result in a non-criminal traffic infraction, as outlined in Chapter 318 of the Florida Statutes. Missing plates may be treated as a moving violation, which could lead to fines or affect your driving record.

Avoiding Trouble With Your Plates

In Florida, you generally don’t need a front license plate unless you drive certain heavy commercial vehicles or truck tractors.

The rear plate is sufficient for most personal-use vehicles, including those with specialty or antique plates. However, all drivers must take care to display their rear license plates properly to avoid fines and complications in case of a highway crash or other traffic incident.

If your vehicle is included under one of these exceptions, make sure to mount the front plate correctly to meet the state’s visibility and placement requirements. Staying compliant with Florida’s plate laws will keep you out of legal trouble and help you avoid unnecessary fines.

Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Northwest Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Fort Walton Beach car accident lawyers at Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We have two convenient locations in Northwest Florida:

Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Fort Walton Beach Office
975 Mar Walt Dr
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
(850) 863-5297

Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Destin Office
4507 Furling Ln Suite 214
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 790-0243