License plates (also known as vehicle registration plates or license tags) are generally rectangular metal plates issued by your state’s department of motor vehicles for the purpose of identifying your car. A license plate must be attached to the rear of your car, and in 31 states and the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.), you must also have a license plate on the front of your car. In a state or district that also requires you to display a license plate on the front of your car, your failure to do so will provide the police with probable cause to stop you and issue a citation at any time. State laws (statutes) generally provide for the specific placement of license plates, stated in minimum and maximum inches from the ground.

In Texas, state law requires that vehicles display two license plates, one at the front and one at the rear. The Texas Transportation Code specifies that the plates must be attached to the vehicle in a manner that is clearly visible and should be kept free from materials that would obstruct or reduce their visibility, such as dirt or debris. The rear license plate must be illuminated by a white light to make it visible from a distance of 50 feet during nighttime. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in a traffic stop and citation. Texas law also provides specific guidelines for the placement of the license plates, including the height at which they must be mounted from the ground. It is important for vehicle owners in Texas to adhere to these regulations to avoid potential fines and enforcement actions.