One Plate or Two? Indiana’s License Plate Rules
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana — License plates may seem like just another part of owning a car, but in Indiana, they’re a critical piece of vehicle identification and public safety. They help law enforcement track vehicles, investigate crashes, and hold drivers accountable. Here’s what every Indiana driver should know about the state’s license plate laws.
How Many Plates Are Required in Indiana?
Unlike many states, Indiana generally issues one plate per vehicle, which must be mounted on the rear.
- Standard passenger vehicles: One rear plate only
- Specialty or fleet vehicles: May require additional plates, depending on classification
- Front plate: Not required for most vehicles
Display and Mounting Rules
Indiana law requires plates to be:
- Firmly mounted on the rear of the car
- Positioned horizontally and upright
- Clearly visible and not blocked by frames, covers, or tinted glass
- Free from dirt, fading, or damage that obscures numbers or registration stickers
Plates displayed inside the rear window instead of on the mounting area are not legal.
Specialty and Personalized Plates
The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offers a wide range of plate options, including:
- Specialty plates: Support colleges, charities, or military organizations
- Personalized plates: Unique letter/number combinations
- Disability plates: For drivers with state-issued placards or permits
- Antique plates: For vehicles 25+ years old, restricted to exhibitions, parades, or educational use
Damaged, Missing, or Illegible Plates
Driving with a plate that is damaged, unreadable, or missing is a violation.
- Replacement plates are available through the BMV, either online or in person
- Temporary permits are issued while waiting for permanent registration materials
Penalties for Noncompliance
Failure to follow license plate laws can result in:
- Fines
- Registration problems if plates are missing or unreadable
- Higher insurance rates for repeat violations, since compliance reflects on driving records
Key Takeaways for Indiana Drivers
- Most vehicles only need one rear plate
- Plates must always be visible, legible, and securely attached
- Specialty and personalized plates are widely available through the BMV
- Replace damaged or lost plates immediately to avoid fines
- Noncompliance can affect both your wallet and your driving record
Indiana’s license plate rules are straightforward but essential for keeping roads safe and vehicles identifiable. Following the law not only avoids fines but also ensures smoother interactions with law enforcement and the BMV.
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