Vermont vehicle license plate laws govern how license plates must be displayed, what covers and frames are permitted, and what constitutes an obstruction violation. Both front and rear plates are required on standard passenger vehicles.
Front Plate Requirement
This section explains Vermont’s requirements for front license plate display on standard passenger vehicles.
Does Vermont require a front license plate, and did the sticker rule change recently?
Yes. Vermont requires both front and rear license plates on most standard passenger vehicles. Vermont eliminated annual registration stickers effective June 1, 2023 under Act 41 - registration certificates now serve as proof of valid registration.
Plate Covers
Tinted or opaque license plate covers are prohibited in Vermont. Any cover that reduces plate readability or reflectivity violates state law.
Are tinted or opaque license plate covers legal in Vermont?
No. Tinted or opaque license plate covers are illegal in Vermont. Any cover that reduces the visibility, reflectivity, or legibility of either plate is prohibited. Anti-camera sprays and coatings are also prohibited.
Plate Frames
Plate frames are permitted in Vermont provided no required plate information is obstructed.
Can I use a license plate frame on my Vermont plates?
License plate frames are permitted in Vermont provided they do not obstruct any portion of either plate, including the state name, any characters, or any registration stickers. Frames that cover any required plate information are violations.
Plate Mounting
Vermont requires both plates to be securely mounted and clearly readable at all times.
Where must Vermont license plates be mounted on the vehicle?
Vermont requires both front and rear plates to be securely fastened, horizontally mounted, and clearly visible. Vermont eliminated registration stickers as of June 1, 2023 (Act 41). Registration certificates serve as proof. Annual safety inspections are still required. Plates must not swing, rattle, or be angled in a way that reduces readability.
Plate Illumination
Vermont requires the rear license plate to be lit by a white light when the vehicle’s headlights are on.
Does Vermont require the rear license plate to be illuminated at night?
Yes. Vermont 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. A non-functioning plate light is an equipment violation subject to citation.
Registration Stickers
Vermont’s registration sticker requirements determine what must be displayed on the plate or vehicle at all times.
Why did Vermont eliminate registration stickers in June 2023 under Act 41?
Vermont eliminated annual registration stickers effective June 1, 2023 under Act 41. Registration certificates now serve as proof of valid registration. Annual safety inspections are still required at licensed inspection stations.
Plate Obstruction
Vermont prohibits any cover or device that makes either plate difficult to read or reduces its reflectivity. The following items are specifically prohibited.
What counts as illegal license plate obstruction in Vermont?
Vermont prohibits any material or device that makes either plate illegible or harder to read. The items listed below are specifically prohibited under state law.
- 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
Fines and Violations
Vermont plate violations are traffic offenses. Fines are set by Vermont courts and vary by offense and jurisdiction.
What is the fine for a plate cover or missing front plate violation in Vermont?
Vermont plate violations are traffic offenses. Fines are set by Vermont courts and vary by offense and jurisdiction.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Missing front plate | Traffic offense - fine typically $100 to $200 |
| Plate obstruction or cover | Traffic offense - fine set by court |
| Missing or improperly displayed rear plate | Traffic offense - fine set by court |
| Non-functioning plate light | Equipment violation - fine set by court |
Plate Alteration
Altering or modifying a Vermont license plate is prohibited by state law. Modified plates must be replaced through the proper authority.
Can I alter or modify my Vermont license plate?
No. Altering or defacing a Vermont license plate is prohibited. Any plate that has been bent, painted, or otherwise modified must be replaced through the Vermont DMV at dmv.vermont.gov or a participating town clerk office.
Decorative Covers
Decorative covers are prohibited in Vermont if they reduce the readability or reflectivity of either plate in any way.
Are decorative plate covers legal in Vermont?
No. Decorative covers are prohibited if they reduce reflectivity or legibility of either plate. Display both plates without any cover for full compliance.