If you’re driving in Florida with a covered, tinted, or obscured license plate, you could now face criminal charges — not just a ticket.
The Sarasota Police Department posted a “friendly warning” on social media reminding drivers that, starting October 1, 2025, any obstruction of a license plate is officially a second-degree misdemeanor.
The post, shared with a “PLEASE SHARE” message and megaphone emoji, aimed to boost awareness and transparency — literally. Officers said enforcement is coming soon.
While the reminder sounded polite, the penalties are steep. Drivers can face up to a $500 fine, 60 days in jail, and a mandatory court appearance.
The warning stems from House Bill 253, which toughens Florida’s vehicle code. What used to be a simple traffic violation is now a criminal offense. The law bans any material, spray, or device that makes a tag difficult to read — by human eye or camera.
The crackdown doesn’t stop with drivers. Manufacturers, sellers, and even buyers of license plate-hiding gadgets can now face charges:
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Owning or buying such a device: second-degree misdemeanor
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Selling or distributing one: first-degree misdemeanor
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Using one to evade detection or commit a crime: third-degree felony
A Florida defense attorney confirmed that even a first-time offender could face jail time and fines under the new law.
For now, police say they’re focusing on educating the public, but enforcement has already begun. If your license plate is covered or tinted, remove it immediately to avoid fines or worse.
Florida residents can check the full list of newly enacted laws on ClickOrlando’s updated roundup from November 3.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
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