California Vehicle Code 5200(a) requires that when the DMV issues two license plates for a vehicle, both must be attached — one on the front bumper and one on the rear. Vehicles missing a front plate, displaying a plate in the wrong location, or using an obstructed or unreadable plate are frequently cited under this section. This is a non-point fix-it ticket, and the citation can often be dismissed after the violation is corrected.
When two license plates are issued by the department for use upon a vehicle, they shall be attached to the vehicle for which they were issued, one in the front and the other in the rear.
(b)
When one license plate is issued by the department for use upon a vehicle, it shall be attached to the rear of the vehicle, except that a license plate issued for use upon a truck tractor shall be attached to the front of the vehicle.
Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 404, Sec. 7. Effective January 1, 2005.
Fine & Penalty Amounts
Estimated totals include all mandatory state and county penalty assessments. Actual amounts vary by county court.
Violation Range
Est. Total with Assessments
Notes
Missing front plate / improper display
~$196
Fix-it ticket; may be dismissed after correction and proof submitted.
VC 5200(a) is commonly treated as a correctable "fix-it" violation (also called a Notice to Correct Violation). After attaching the required plate, you can often sign off the ticket with a police agency and pay only a small dismissal fee to the court. Without correction, the fine totals approximately $196 after assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions drivers search for after receiving this citation.
Yes, for vehicles to which the DMV issues two plates. California issues two plates for most passenger cars and trucks. Both must be displayed — front and rear. Certain vehicle types only receive one plate (attached to the rear). If you are unsure, check your vehicle's registration documentation.
Yes. VC 5200(a) is typically a correctable violation. After you attach the missing or improperly displayed plate, you can often have a police officer or DMV official sign your citation to confirm the correction, then submit proof to the court with a small administrative fee. This is generally much less expensive than paying the full fine.
No. VC 5200(a) is a non-point infraction. A conviction does not add DMV points to your driving record.
California law requires a front plate regardless of whether the manufacturer provided a mount. Some dealers install aftermarket brackets. The absence of a factory mount is not a defense to a VC 5200(a) citation, though some drivers have found courts willing to consider the circumstances. Your best approach is to install the front plate before your court date.
Also frequently cited with
California drivers who receive this citation often have questions about these related violations.
