Are Two License Plates Really Required in Colorado?

The great state of Colorado is one of 29 that require most motor vehicles to display a license plate on both the front and back of the car with few exceptions. Did you know this wasn't always the case?

Read More: How to Avoid an Unnecessary Speeding Ticket in Colorado

Colorado issued a single rear plate to drivers during WWII which likely helped to conserve steel. In 2021, State Senator Kevin Priola introduced a bill to reduce the requirement to a single rear plate but it failed. #twoplatestate

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What Does Colorado's Plate Law Say?

Colorado Revised Statute 42-3-202 specifies most all passengers must have a front and rear plate. Motorcycles are exempt, and vehicles made before 1977 may qualify for single-plate status.

The Need for Two Plates

Cars are required to display tags in Colorado for identification, toll enforcement, and to deter motorists from fleeing the scene of an accident.

• Identification: A front and rear plate allows officers, security cameras, and electronic tolling systems to easily identify your vehicle.
• Toll Enforcement: If you're driving on most of America's toll roads/express lanes, it's your front plate that is used for billing purposes.
• Hit & Run Reduction: If people can see your tags from in front or behind, you are less likely to flee the scene of an accident, or the use of a vehicle to commit a crime.

Read More: Colorado Police Precautions You See During Traffic Stops

What Happens If You Only Display One Plate?

According to Shouselaw.com failure to display a front and rear plate on your vehicle registered in the state of Colorado is a class B infraction. The fine could reach $100 for your first offense. You will not be assessed points on your driver's license for this infraction but perhaps there should be.