Do You Need a Front License Plate in Florida?

July 29, 2025 | Personal Injury

If you’re new to Florida or buying a car in the state, you might wonder: Do you need a front license plate in Florida? Unlike many other states that require both front and rear plates, Florida drivers generally only need one, and it’s the rear plate.

This simple difference can affect how you mount your license plate, deal with law enforcement, or even sell your car across state lines.

Florida Only Requires a Rear License Plate

Florida law is clear: only one license plate is required for most vehicles, and it must be displayed on the rear of the car. This rule is outlined in Section 320.06 of the Florida Statutes.

You must also make sure the plate is:

Clean and clearly visible
Not obstructed by frames or covers
Properly lit at night

Driving without a visible rear plate can lead to traffic stops, tickets, and fines.

Why Florida Doesn’t Require Front License Plates

Most states require both front and back plates for identification, but Florida has chosen to stick with a single rear plate. The state has continued this approach for several reasons:

It cuts manufacturing costs
It reduces the visual clutter on vehicles
It supports aesthetic preferences among car owners

Since Florida doesn’t require front car plates, most cars sold and registered in the state don’t come with a front license plate holder.

Are There Exceptions to the One-Plate Rule?

Florida only requires a front plate under specific circumstances. For example, if a vehicle is registered as a government or commercial fleet vehicle, or if the manufacturer has already installed a front plate bracket, the state may require a plate in that location.

However, for personal passenger vehicles, the answer remains simple: Florida law only mandates a rear plate.

What If Your Car Has a Front License Plate Holder?

Many vehicles, especially those made for sale in states that require two plates, come with a built-in front license plate holder. If you’re in Florida, you have a few options:

You can leave the front holder empty
You can install a vanity plate (as long as it’s not misleading)
You can remove the holder if it’s detachable

You are not required to use the front license plate bracket unless Florida changes its law or you move to a state that requires two plates.

Will Not Having a Front Plate Cause Problems?

Not having a front plate will not cause legal issues in Florida. However, it could be an issue if:

You’re driving a Florida-registered vehicle in another state that requires a front plate
You sell your vehicle to someone in a two-plate state, and they request a bracket installation
You are pulled over in a different state, and the officer is unaware of Florida’s single-plate rule

While these situations are uncommon, it helps to carry documentation of your registration when traveling across state lines.

What About Toll Cameras and Red Light Cameras?

Some drivers ask whether the lack of a front plate affects toll systems or red light cameras. In most cases, it doesn’t. Florida’s traffic cameras are set up to capture rear plates, aligning with the state’s one-plate requirement.

Out-of-state toll systems may face challenges identifying Florida vehicles from the front. If you’re traveling often, consider a toll pass like SunPass or E-ZPass to avoid billing issues.

How Florida’s Plate Rule Compares To Other States

Florida is one of several states that only require a rear license plate. Others include:

Georgia
South Carolina
Arizona
Pennsylvania

In contrast, states like California, Texas, and New York require front and back plates. If you’re moving between states, you’ll need to adjust your plate setup according to local law.