Yes, you need both a front and rear license plate on most vehicles in Colorado. Requiring two plates makes vehicles easier to identify and can help law enforcement locate vehicles when necessary. Failure to follow the license plate rules can cost you some money, so make sure that you know all the regulations that apply before you hit the road in Colorado.
Front License Plate Requirements in Colorado
Colorado law requires most vehicles in the state to display a front license plate as well as a rear plate. This law applies to most vehicles on the road, including:
- Cars
- Pickup trucks
- SUVs
- Vans
When you register your vehicle, the DMV will generally issue two plates for your vehicle. If you only attach the rear plate, you could get pulled over and issued a citation.
Why Does Colorado Require Two License Plates?
Colorado is one of about 30 states that require most vehicles to display both a front and rear license plate. The primary reason for this requirement is to make vehicles easier to identify from either direction. This can help law enforcement investigate crimes, locate stolen vehicles, enforce traffic laws, and identify drivers involved in crashes.
The requirement can also benefit accident victims. After a hit-and-run crash, for example, a witness may only see the front of the fleeing vehicle. A front license plate gives witnesses and law enforcement another opportunity to identify the vehicle and locate the at-fault driver. Without enough identifying information, victims may have to rely on their uninsured motorist coverage if the driver cannot be found.
License Plate Requirements in Colorado
In addition to displaying both a front and rear license plate, there are some more specific rules that must be followed in Colorado. Drivers in the state must:
- Mount their plate horizontally in the location designated by the vehicle manufacturer
- Affix the plates so that they do not swing
- Not use tint covers or other obstructions
- Not use license plate frames that cover any portion of the plate number or state name
- Ensure their license plate is illuminated at night and plainly visible from a distance of 50 feet
Drivers must also display their registration stickers on the bottom corners of their plates. These stickers should clearly show the expiration month and year of the license plate.
Potential Penalties for Violations of Colorado’s License Plate Rules
Failing to properly display a required front license plate is generally a Class B traffic infraction. Using a license plate cover or other device that makes a plate unreadable by an automated license plate reader is a separate Class A traffic infraction.
These violations may result in fines. More serious infractions can result in misdemeanor charges, and you could find yourself facing potential jail time for violations such as:
- Displaying fictitious plates
- Altering your license plate
- Using stolen plates
- Using an altered or fake registration sticker
If you are pulled over for a license plate violation, the law enforcement officer might also discover additional violations. This could land you in even more trouble, so make sure you follow all of Colorado’s license plate rules.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Front Plate Requirement in Colorado?
Yes, there are a few exceptions to the front license plate requirement. A few types of vehicles are not required to have front plates in Colorado, such as:
- Motorcycles
- Trailers
- Street rod vehicles registered under Colorado law
- Military vehicles whose owners elect not to display the assigned plate as permitted by law
If you are unsure whether your vehicle requires a front license plate, you should contact the Colorado DMV for clarification. You always want to make sure your vehicle is in compliance before hitting the road so that you do not find yourself facing unnecessary fines and penalties.
Contact Ferrell Injury Law To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Boulder Car Accident Attorney
Colorado generally requires most passenger vehicles to display both a front and rear license plate. Keeping your plates properly mounted, visible, and free of prohibited covers can help you avoid traffic citations and stay in compliance with state law.
If you need help or have been in an accident in Colorado, contact Ferrell Injury Law today to schedule a free consultation with a Boulder car accident lawyer.
If you’ve been injured in Boulder, CO, call Ferrell Injury Law for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.
We proudly serve clients in Boulder and surrounding Colorado communities.
Ferrell Injury Law
2060 Broadway # 360, Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 687-2795
