A law that took effect on October 1 in Florida makes it illegal to block or alter a driver’s license plate, including using frames, covers, or even clear shields.
What drivers need to know
Florida Highway Patrol says the initial focus is on educating drivers rather than issuing tickets. The law prohibits anything that blocks any part of a license plate, including clear or tinted covers, stickers, sprays, and decorative frames.
Violations could eventually result in fines up to $500 or even jail time if a plate is intentionally obscured during a crime.
Why the law matters
FHP Trooper Kenn Watson explained, “We want to make sure that an officer, trooper, or deputy can read that plate. If something happened to you, you would want us to identify you quickly and efficiently, making sure all emergency contact and intel information is correct. The one way to do that is to keep the license plate perfectly clean.”
The law also applies to anything not normally part of a plate, including team logos or stickers, which have become more common in recent years and can make it harder for law enforcement to read plates.
Driver reactions
Drivers have mixed opinions. Some, like Diane Bunsfield of Indian Rocks Beach, say they understand the reasoning and plan to remove covers or frames: “I think it’s great for them. If it makes it easier for them instead of trying to get closer to someone’s car.” Others, like Jim Hardesty of Fort Myers, believe law enforcement has more pressing issues than license plate frames.
Next steps
Troopers are focused on public awareness for now, with most drivers expected to receive warnings. Eventually, failure to comply could lead to fines or jail time if plates are intentionally obscured during criminal activity. FHP encourages drivers to check their plates and remove anything that doesn’t belong before warnings turn into citations.
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