Under Missouri law, most motor vehicles are required to display both a front and rear license plate. This rule serves several purposes, including easier vehicle identification and enforcement of traffic laws. However, there are some exceptions to this requirement. Read on to explore the full details of Missouri’s license plate laws and when exceptions may apply.
Why Does Missouri Require a Front License Plate?
The main reason for requiring a front license plate is to help law enforcement and provide easier identification of vehicles. By having a license plate on both the front and rear, law enforcement is able to clearly see the license plate number from either direction. Additionally, this is also useful for toll booths and other instances when a car may need to be identified.
The front license plate requirement can also help civilians as well, especially in instances of hit and run car accidents or other scenarios when someone may need to quickly obtain the tag number of a vehicle. Overall, the front license plate requirements help with public safety and law and order on the roadways. Similar to regular vehicle safety inspections, this requirement helps keep everyone on the roadways safe.
What Are the Penalties for Not Having a Front License Plate in Missouri?
While it might seem like an inconvenience to display two license plates on your vehicle, it is the law. Failure to comply with this law can result in a traffic citation and some stiff penalties. For instance, in Clay County, failure to display your front plate may result in a fine of $50.50 plus court costs of $69.50.
Fines are similar in other areas of Kansas City as well as across all of Missouri. Keep in mind that the fine mentioned above is for a first offense. Repeated or multiple offenses will result in additional fines, so you could find yourself facing hundreds or even thousands of dollars worth of penalties.
Exceptions to Missouri’s Front License Plate Requirement
While most vehicles require both a front and rear license plate in Missouri, there are a few exceptions to the rule.
Some of the vehicles that do not require a front license plate are:
- Motorcycles
- Vehicles with “historic vehicle” registrations
- Commercial vehicles of 18,000 pounds or more
While a front plate could be useful in some instances of motorcycle accidents and other scenarios, the design of most motorcycles does not allow for the easy attachment of a plate on the front of the vehicle. This is why a front plate is not required.
Although a front plate is not required on large commercial vehicles, Missouri does give those vehicle owners the option of having two plates. If you decide to have two plates issued, then you are required to display them both on the vehicle. They will be marked clearly so that one plate goes on the front and the other goes on the rear.
Other Missouri License Plate Laws
In addition to requiring both a front and rear license plate, Missouri also has some other rules about license plates.
Some additional license plate requirements in Missouri are:
- Each license plate shall have the name or abbreviated name of this state
- Each license plate shall have the words “Show-Me State”
- Each license plate shall show the month and year in which the registration expires
- All plates shall contain fully reflective material
- All plates shall be clearly visible at night
Failure to adhere to any of these rules may result in traffic citations and fines similar to those for improper plates already mentioned above.
Contact The Personal Injury Law Firm of Dickerson Oxton in Kansas City, MO Today
If you’ve been cited for not having a front license plate, or if you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies for an exemption, it may be beneficial to consult with a Missouri traffic attorney. Dickerson Oxton, LLC can explain your rights and help you navigate the legal system if you choose to contest a citation. Reach out today for a free consultation.
For more information, contact the Kansas City, MO personal injury law firm of Dickerson Oxton to schedule a free initial consultation.
We serve in Jackson County and its surrounding areas across Missouri:
Dickerson Oxton – Kansas City Office
1100 Main St #2550, Kansas City, MO 64105
(816) 268 1960
Hours: Monday to Thursday,
from 8 am – 5 pm