Delaware vehicle license plate laws are governed by Title 21 of the Delaware Code. Delaware is a rear-plate-only state — only one plate is required on standard passenger vehicles. Key rules cover mounting, visibility, illumination, frame and cover restrictions, and the prohibition on plate alteration.
Does Delaware Require a Front License Plate?
No. Delaware is a rear-plate-only state. Standard passenger vehicles need only display one plate, mounted at the rear of the vehicle. There is no requirement for a front plate or front bracket. Drivers moving to Delaware from two-plate states can remove the front plate and bracket without any violation.
Are Tinted License Plate Covers Legal in Delaware?
No. Tinted or opaque license plate covers are illegal in Delaware. Delaware law requires the plate to remain clearly visible and legible at all times. Any cover — tinted, frosted, or clear but reflective — that reduces the visibility or legibility of the plate is prohibited. Anti-camera sprays and coatings are also prohibited.
Are License Plate Frames Legal in Delaware?
Frames are permitted in Delaware as long as they do not obscure any portion of the plate. Frames that cover the state name “Delaware,” any character in the plate number, or any validation sticker are violations. Thin border-only frames that stay within the edges of the plate are the safest choice.
Where Must the License Plate Be Mounted in Delaware?
Delaware requires the rear license plate to be firmly attached to the rear of the vehicle in a manner that prevents it from swinging. The plate must be plainly visible from behind and clearly legible. It must be maintained in a readable condition at all times. The operator of any vehicle has a duty to keep the license plate legible at all times under Delaware law.
Does the Rear License Plate Need to Be Illuminated in Delaware?
Yes. Delaware requires the rear license plate to be illuminated by a white light so it is clearly readable from at least 50 feet when the vehicle’s headlights are in use. A non-functioning plate light is an equipment violation subject to citation.
What Are the License Plate Sticker Laws in Delaware?
Delaware issues validation stickers for license plates showing the expiration period. The sticker must be properly affixed to the plate as directed by the Delaware DMV. Fraudulent or stolen stickers are serious violations. Delaware also issues county name decals for some plate types — operating a vehicle without the required county name decal when one is legally required is a violation.
What Counts as License Plate Obstruction in Delaware?
Delaware prohibits any material, cover, or apparatus that obscures or hinders the clear display and legibility of the license plate. Specific prohibited obstructions include:
- Tinted or colored covers placed over the plate
- Clear covers that reduce reflectivity or create glare
- Frames that cover the state name, any character, or any sticker
- Dirt or debris allowed to accumulate and make the plate unreadable
- Anti-camera sprays, coatings, or films on the plate surface
- Any apparatus attached to the rear of the vehicle that obscures or hinders plate display
What Is the Fine for a License Plate Violation in Delaware?
Delaware plate violations are criminal offenses under Title 21 of the Delaware Code. Violations involving altered plates are criminal offenses, not merely traffic infractions. Contact your local Delaware court for current fine schedules.
| FEE / ITEM | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Plate obstruction or cover violation | Traffic violation — fine set by Delaware court |
| Missing or improperly displayed rear plate | Traffic violation — fine set by Delaware court |
| Plate alteration or defacement | Criminal offense under Delaware Code Title 21 |
| Non-functioning plate light | Equipment violation — fine set by Delaware court |
Can I Alter or Modify My Delaware License Plate?
No. Altering, defacing, mutilating, or modifying a Delaware license plate is a criminal offense. This includes bending, painting, adding stickers, or otherwise changing the appearance of the plate. Delaware takes plate alteration seriously — it is classified as a criminal violation, not merely a traffic infraction.
Are Decorative License Plate Covers Legal in Delaware?
No. Decorative covers of any type are prohibited if they obscure or hinder the display and legibility of the plate. The statute specifically prohibits any cover that is not colorless and transparent — and even a clear cover may violate the law if it reduces reflectivity or creates glare. Display the plate without any cover for full compliance.