License plate frames are one of the most common car accessories on California roads. From dealership branding to funny quotes and custom colors, these frames add a personal or promotional touch to vehicles across the state. But what many drivers don’t realize is that using the wrong type of license plate frame or using it the wrong way can land you with a hefty ticket. Which ultimately begs the question, “Are license plate frames illegal?”
What Is a License Plate Frame?
A license plate frame is a decorative border that surrounds your vehicle’s license plate. They’re sold in thousands of designs and are often installed by car dealerships or drivers who want to add a bit of flair to their ride. While the frame itself isn’t illegal, how it interacts with the visibility of your license plate is what matters under California law.
What Does California Law Say About License Plate Frames?
California Vehicle Code 5201 outlines how license plates must be displayed and specifically states that any portion of the license plate number, the registered states, or the registration tabs should not be obscured or hidden in any capacity. This means if you have any numbers or letters on the plate, the word “California”, registration stickers, or any security or reflective elements covered by the frame, you may face penalties. Even clear plastic or tinted covers are illegal, regardless of whether the plate is still readable, because California wants plates to be as visible as possible for law enforcement and traffic cameras.
What Are the Penalties in California?
If you are caught violating California’s license plate display law, it can result in a series of penalties and fines depending on the severity of the violation. However, for most first time offenses, the on-duty officer may issue a base fine of $25 and a fix-it ticket to ensure you remove the frame and show proof of correction. However, if you do not pay off the fine and the ticket, the court may issue additional fines, which can total up to $250. In addition, repeated violations may lead to increased penalties and the possible suspension of your driving privileges.
Are Police Actively Enforcing This?
While police enforcement will always vary, enforcement will be stricter in larger cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Sacramento. As police officers often use plate visibility as a primary reason for pulling someone over, if they find other infractions, such as expired registration or illegal modifications, you could face multiple citations.
Additionally, automated license plate readers (ALPRs) used on toll roads and by law enforcement may not work properly with obstructed or altered plates making the issue a public safety concern in the eyes of the state.
Already Got a Ticket for a License Plate Frame?
If you’ve been cited for a license plate obstruction, you may have been issued a fix-it ticket and should be eligible for dismissal if you correct the issue quickly and show proof. However, in some cases, tickets can be disputed especially if the obstruction was minimal or unclear.
If you’re facing a fine or need help navigating the citation, consider contacting your local courthouse for additional information.
Tips to Have a Legal License Plate Frame in California
Here are some practical tips to make sure your license plate frame won’t get you in trouble:
- Choose a frame that clearly exposes 100% of the plate’s content, including the top and bottom.
- Avoid all clear, tinted, or plastic covers.
- If your car came from a dealer, remove their branded frame and replace it with a compliant version.
- Perform a visual check by standing 6–10 feet behind your vehicle.
What to Do If You Have Been Ticketed for an Illegal License Plate Frame?
In California, it’s not about whether your license plate frame looks good, it’s about whether it complies with state law. A stylish or branded frame might seem harmless, but if it covers even a fraction of your plate’s text, state name, or registration tags, you could face real consequences.
Avoid unnecessary tickets by making sure your plate is fully visible, unobstructed, and uncovered. While it may be a small detail that can save you a big headache down the road.