New Hampshire vehicle license plate laws are governed by New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) Title XXI. New Hampshire is a two-plate state - both front and rear plates are required. New Hampshire also requires an annual vehicle safety inspection. Key rules cover plate display, cover and frame restrictions, illumination, and the annual inspection sticker requirement.
Does New Hampshire require a front license plate?
Yes. New Hampshire requires both front and rear license plates on all standard passenger vehicles. Driving without a front plate is a traffic violation. Both plates must be securely mounted on the exterior front and rear of the vehicle.
Are tinted license plate covers legal in New Hampshire?
Tinted or opaque license plate covers are illegal in New Hampshire. New Hampshire law requires plates to be clearly legible at all times. Any cover that reduces visibility or reflectivity of either plate is prohibited.
Are license plate frames legal in New Hampshire?
License plate frames are permitted in New Hampshire provided they do not obstruct any portion of either plate, including the state name, any characters, or any stickers.
Where must the license plate be mounted in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire requires both front and rear plates to be securely fastened, horizontal, and clearly visible. Plates must not swing, rattle, or be angled in a way that reduces readability.
Does the rear license plate need to be illuminated in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire requires the rear license plate to be illuminated by a white light readable from at least 50 feet when headlights are in use.
What are the license plate sticker laws in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire issues annual registration stickers for the rear plate and an annual safety inspection sticker for the windshield. Both must be current. Vehicles must be inspected annually at a licensed New Hampshire inspection station.
What counts as license plate obstruction in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire prohibits any cover or device that makes either plate illegible or reduces reflectivity. 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 any sticker on either plate
- Anti-camera sprays or coatings on either plate
What is the fine for a license plate violation in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire plate violations are traffic offenses. Fines are set by New Hampshire courts.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Missing front plate | Traffic offense - fine set by New Hampshire court |
| Plate obstruction or cover | Traffic offense - fine set by court |
| Missing or expired inspection sticker | Traffic offense - fine set by court |
| Non-functioning plate light | Equipment violation - fine set by court |
Can I alter or modify my New Hampshire license plate?
Altering or defacing a New Hampshire license plate is prohibited. Modified plates must be replaced through the NH DMV or your town or city clerk.
Are decorative license plate covers legal in New Hampshire?
Decorative covers are prohibited if they reduce readability or reflectivity. Display both plates without any cover.