Minnesota vehicle license plate laws are governed by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 168 and 169. Minnesota is a two-plate state – both front and rear plates are required on standard passenger vehicles. Annual registration tabs (stickers) are affixed to the rear plate. Minnesota eliminated emissions testing in 1999. Key rules cover plate and tab display, cover and frame restrictions, and illumination.
Does Minnesota require a front license plate?
Yes. Minnesota requires both front and rear license plates on standard passenger vehicles. Single plates are available only for vehicles model year 1972 or earlier, pioneer or classic vehicles, or vehicles registered in collector classes. All other standard passenger vehicles must display both front and rear plates.
Are tinted license plate covers legal in Minnesota?
Tinted or opaque license plate covers are illegal in Minnesota. Minnesota law requires plates to be clearly legible at all times. Any cover that reduces visibility, reflectivity, or legibility is prohibited.
Are license plate frames legal in Minnesota?
License plate frames are permitted in Minnesota provided they do not obstruct any portion of either plate, including the registration tabs. The tab area on the rear plate must remain fully visible.
Where must the license plate be mounted in Minnesota?
Minnesota requires both front and rear plates to be securely fastened, horizontal, and clearly visible. Tabs are affixed to the rear plate. Plates must not swing, rattle, or be angled in a way that reduces readability.
Does the rear license plate need to be illuminated in Minnesota?
Minnesota requires the rear license plate to be illuminated by a white light clearly readable from at least 50 feet when the vehicle’s headlights are in use.
What are the license plate sticker laws in Minnesota?
Minnesota issues annual registration tabs that are affixed to the rear plate and expire on the last day of the expiration month shown on the registration. Tabs must be current and properly affixed. Driving with expired tabs is a petty misdemeanor with a $30 base fine (approximately $115 with surcharges).
What counts as license plate obstruction in Minnesota?
Minnesota prohibits any cover or device that makes either plate or registration tabs difficult to read. Prohibited items include:
- Tinted or colored covers over either plate
- Clear covers that reduce reflectivity or legibility
- Frames that cover the state name, any character, or the registration tab area
- Anti-camera sprays or coatings on either plate
- Dirt or debris that makes either plate unreadable
What is the fine for a license plate violation in Minnesota?
Minnesota plate violations are petty misdemeanors or traffic offenses. Fines vary by offense.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Missing front plate | Petty misdemeanor – fine set by Minnesota court |
| Expired registration tabs | Petty misdemeanor – $30 base fine, approximately $115 with surcharges |
| Plate obstruction or cover | Traffic offense – fine set by court |
| Non-functioning rear plate light | Equipment violation – fine set by court |
Can I alter or modify my Minnesota license plate?
Altering or defacing a Minnesota license plate or registration tab is prohibited. Modified plates must be replaced at a deputy registrar office.
Are decorative license plate covers legal in Minnesota?
Decorative covers are prohibited if they reduce reflectivity or legibility. Display both plates without any cover.