Florida’s New License Plate Law Explained
Reviewed by Michael P. Maddux, Esq. | Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer | Florida Super Lawyer for 16 Consecutive Years
Florida’s new license plate law, which took effect on October 1, has caused widespread confusion, particularly over whether common license plate frames are now illegal. In response to the uncertainty, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) issued a clarifying memo. This memo helps drivers and law enforcement better understand what the law actually prohibits.
What FLHSMV Clarified About Florida’s New License Plate Law
FLHSMV states that license plate frames are allowed as long as they do not obscure the alphanumeric characters on the plate or the validation decal in the top right corner. The department clarified that it does not consider the text along the bottom of the plate to be a primary identifying feature. As a result, frames that cover slogans or county names at the bottom of the plate are generally permissible.
The statute targets “license plate obscuring devices” that hide the plate, interfere with the legibility or detectability of critical identifying features, or prevent cameras or officers from recording the plate number or validation sticker. This includes items such as anti-camera covers, sprays, wraps, or other devices designed to defeat visibility.
Penalties and Enforcement
Violations of the law can carry serious consequences, ranging from a second-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony in more severe circumstances. However, many law enforcement agencies have indicated they intend to issue warnings for unintentional violations while educating drivers about compliance.
If you receive a citation or are charged under Florida’s license plate statute, take the matter seriously. The experienced attorneys at the Law Office of Michael P. Maddux, P.A. can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.