Do I Need a Front License Plate in CA?

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If you’re getting ready to take your new car on the Pasadena roads, you might be wondering, “Do I need a front license plate in CA?” The answer is yes. While some drivers crave the sleek and streamlined look of a plate-free ride, California requires you to have both a front and rear license plate to drive legally. Find out what you need to know about California license plate rules with our car buying tips from Rusnak Auto Group.

What are the CA Front License Plate Requirements?

The California license plate rules indicate that drivers must secure front and rear license plates securely. The license plate number must be clearly visible and easily legible from left to right. So if you’re getting back from a muddy off-road excursion around Thousand Oaks, don’t forget to get a good detailing. If you want to keep your license plate spotless, drivers are also allowed to utilize license plate accessories, like shields and covers. However, these accessories cannot interfere with the visibility of the plate number or the recognition of a license plate by an electronic device operated by state or local law enforcement.

What if I Don’t Have Space for a Front Plate?

Some new vehicle brands do not include a way to mount a permanent front license plate. While this may be legal in other states, as of 2019, CA front license plate requirements state that all passenger vehicles must attach two plates to avoid costly fees. There are a few ways to accomplish this on a car without a traditional plate mount.

  • Adhesive plates stick on your car like an ultra-strong sticker to keep your plate in place.
  • Magnetic mounts offer a cleaner solution to affix your plate without the need for sticky adhesives.
  • Our service team can install a permanent solution for your bumper, so feel free to reach out for recommendations.

Find Out More with Rusnak Auto Group

Whether you have more questions about California license plate rules or you’re ready to find a brand new vehicle for the Westlake Village roads, the team at Rusnak Auto Group is ready to help with all of your automotive needs. Contact us today for more information or stop by our dealership in Pasadena to find out what we can do for you.

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267 W Colorado Boulevard
Pasadena, CA 91105
Rusnak Auto Group 34.146100, -118.156400.