Texas law requires all vehicles to have both front and rear license plates, so yes, you need that front plate. Failing to comply could result in a fine of up to $200.

More importantly, though, failing to have that second plate gives cops probable cause to pull you over, and this could lead to more serious implications – particularly if you have drugs or alcohol in your vehicle. 

Why Does Texas Require a Front License Plate?

License plate requirements are established by Texas Transportation Code Section 504.943. It specifies that all passenger cars, trucks, and 18-wheelers registered in Texas must have front and rear license plates.

Very few of the benefits of the second plate aid motorists. Most are to help law enforcement or toll road authorities.

A study from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute showed that front plates can aid in::

• Traffic stops
• Criminal investigations
• Speed cameras
• Toll booths
• Recovery of stolen vehicles

The study shows that the increased readability also helps monitor border crossings.

The only real benefit to Texans is that the second plate makes it easier to confirm that the rideshare vehicle you’re about to climb into is the correct one. 

Exceptions

Texas Transportation Code § 504.943 exempts road tractors, trailers, semitrailers, motorcycles, and travel trailers from the requirement of having two plates. They are only required to have a rear license plate.

Penalties 

If you’re pulled over, you may receive a warning, but you could also be issued a citation and a $200 fine. 

In 2023, the Texas Highway Patrol issued 21,800 citations for “Operate Motor Vehicle Without LP/With One Plate,” according to a representative from the Texas Department of Public Safety.

A court may dismiss the charge if you install the front plate and pay a $10 reimbursement fee.

Though a $200 fine is significant for many Texans, the additional potential consequences of the traffic stop could be very costly.

You’re Giving Police Probable Cause to Pull You Over

In Texas, probable cause refers to the legal standard required for police officers to conduct a search, make an arrest, or obtain a warrant. It means there is a reasonable belief that you have committed a crime or that evidence of a crime can be found in a particular location.

Failure to have a front license plate is technically committing a crime, giving police probable cause to pull you over. Though this in itself is a minor offense, it could lead to more serious consequences.

If police believe they smell alcohol or marijuana, your vehicle could be searched. If incriminating evidence is found, you could be arrested.

In other words, if you regularly drive through areas with high crime rates, are an undocumented migrant, or have any reason to believe a routine traffic stop could lead to more serious consequences, you should make sure your second license plate is in place. 

What If My Car Doesn’t Have a Second Plate?

Automakers are not required to install second plates on vehicles. This means the car you buy may not be equipped to install a front license plate. Additionally, if you’re moving to Texas from a one-plate state, it’s unlikely your car will have a spot to accommodate the second plate.

Many vehicle owners don’t have the appropriate equipment, know-how or desire to drill holes into the front of their vehicles, particularly if they’re new.

Texas regulations specify that the second plate must be affixed to the front bumper or designated license plate holder. 

Transportation Code Section 504.943 dictates the placement of the front license plate. It must be:

• Securely fastened
• Horizontal
• Not less than 12 inches from the ground
• Visible from 50 feet at night

Placing a license plate so it is visible through the windshield is not compliant.

Some vehicle manufacturers offer a mounting bracket designed for the make and model of the vehicle. These often attach to the underside of the bumper, so drilling may not be necessary.

What If I’m Visiting from a One-Plate State?

If you’re visiting Texas, you must meet the requirements of your state of residence. That means it’s OK to drive with only one plate.

Twenty-eight other states currently require front and rear license plates. They are California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

What if my Second License Plate Was Lost or Stolen?

If your vehicle’s license plate has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you must apply for a replacement through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

Other License Plate Requirements

• Visible license plate: Plates must be free of obstructions and clearly visible. Frames or covers that obscure letters and numbers are prohibited and provide the police with further probable cause to pull you over.
• Current registration sticker:  Your registration sticker must be up to date and attached to the inside of your car’s windshield.