New Jersey vehicle license plate laws are governed by New Jersey Statutes Annotated Title 39 (Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulation). New Jersey is a two-plate state – both front and rear plates are required on all standard passenger vehicles. New Jersey requires biennial emissions inspections for most gasoline-powered passenger vehicles. Key rules cover plate display, cover and frame restrictions, illumination, and registration sticker requirements.
Does New Jersey require a front license plate?
Yes. New Jersey requires both front and rear license plates on all standard passenger vehicles. Motorcycles and trailers require only a rear plate. Driving without a front plate on a standard passenger vehicle is a traffic violation in New Jersey.
Are tinted license plate covers legal in New Jersey?
Tinted or opaque license plate covers are illegal in New Jersey. New Jersey law requires plates to remain clearly legible at all times. Any cover that reduces visibility, reflectivity, or legibility of either plate is prohibited.
Are license plate frames legal in New Jersey?
License plate frames are permitted in New Jersey provided they do not obstruct any portion of either plate, including the state name, any characters, or any registration stickers.
Where must the license plate be mounted in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires both front and rear plates to be securely fastened, horizontal, and clearly visible from front and rear respectively. Plates must not swing, rattle, or be positioned at an angle that reduces readability.
Does the rear license plate need to be illuminated in New Jersey?
New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
New Jersey issues annual registration stickers for the rear plate. The sticker must be properly affixed and clearly visible. New Jersey also requires a biennial emissions inspection sticker – if your vehicle requires inspection, the sticker confirms passing status.
What counts as license plate obstruction in New Jersey?
New Jersey prohibits any cover or device that makes either plate difficult to read or that reduces reflectivity. Prohibited items include:
- Tinted or colored covers over either plate
- Clear covers that reduce reflectivity or legibility of either plate
- Frames that cover the state name, any character, or any sticker on either plate
- 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 New Jersey?
New Jersey plate violations are traffic offenses under Title 39. Fines are set by New Jersey courts.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Missing front plate (passenger vehicle) | Traffic offense – fine set by New Jersey court |
| Plate obstruction or cover | Traffic offense – fine set by court |
| Expired registration sticker | Traffic offense – fine set by court |
| Non-functioning rear plate light | Equipment violation – fine set by court |
Can I alter or modify my New Jersey license plate?
Altering or defacing a New Jersey license plate is prohibited under Title 39. Modified, bent, or painted plates must be replaced through the NJMVC.
Are decorative license plate covers legal in New Jersey?
Decorative covers are prohibited if they reduce reflectivity or legibility of either plate. Display both plates without any cover.