New law, recent memo outline new rules for license plate frames in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV/WCJB) – Covering your license plate is now considered a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida.

The new law, which went into effect Oct. 1, sets new penalties for people who have coatings, covers or devices designed to shield their license plates from traffic cameras and toll cameras.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles sent a memo to all law enforcement agencies on Dec. 12 to clarify the rules for license plate frames, which are a popular way for people to support their favorite sports teams, causes and alma maters.

The memo says the new law does not prohibit frames, as long as it doesn’t obscure the visibility of the “alpha numeric plate identifier” or the “decal located in the top right hand corner of the plate.”

Tallahassee Police are now weighing in on the new guidelines.

“My best advice is to remain clear and visible,” said TPD Detective Michael Carter. “If you have any concerns, any doubts, just keep it clear and visible.”

Detective Carter said the new law really aims to crack down on people who have ill intent and are trying to avoid detection by traffic cameras or toll cameras.

Carter says having an unobstructed license plate helps law enforcement solve crimes.

“Let’s say you were involved in a hit-and-run — we may potentially be able to use that plate to get a lead to get a direction to start looking,” Carter said. “But if someone is actively avoiding or putting something on their plate so it’s not readable, where it can’t be detected, that’s hurting you, that’s hurting me, that’s hurting everyone.”

TPD is one of several law enforcement agencies across the state trying to clarify the new frame rules for motorists in their area.

A social media post from the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office shared examples to help people determine if their license plate frames comply with the new rules.

The law went into effect in October and was signed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on May 19.

The second-degree misdemeanor carries a penalty of up to a $500 fine, up to 60 days in jail, or both, meaning you’d have to appear in court.

But the law itself isn’t new. It used to only be a non-criminal traffic infraction.

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