- April 04, 2026
- Car Accident
It is easy to overlook small equipment rules when driving in Washington. However, something as simple as a missing front plate can lead to a traffic stop and a citation. More importantly, it can become an issue if you are involved in an accident.
Understanding what the law requires and whether you need a front license plate in Washington can help you avoid unnecessary problems.
Washington Law Requires Two Plates in Most Cases
Washington is a two-plate state. Under RCW 46.16A.200, the Department of Licensing generally issues two license plates for passenger vehicles. The law states that if two plates are issued, they must be “attached conspicuously at the front and rear” of the vehicle.
If you received two plates, you generally must display both.
Display Requirements Under Washington Law
Washington law does not just require displaying license plates. It also sets rules for how they must be displayed. These requirements are designed to ensure your vehicle can always be identified.
Under Washington law, license plates must:
- Be securely attached to the vehicle
- Be clearly visible and readable
- Be mounted in a horizontal position
- Be placed no more than four feet from the ground
It is generally unlawful to use frames, covers, or materials that obscure or distort the plate, or to display plates that are illegible or altered. Even something as simple as a tinted cover or partially blocked plate can lead to a ticket.
Are There Any Exceptions?
There are limited exceptions, but they generally do not apply to standard passenger vehicles. Some vehicles are issued only one plate, including:
- Trailer
- Semitrailer
- Camper
- Moped
- Collector vehicle
- Horseless carriage
- Motorcycle
A vehicle issued one plate must mount it on the rear of the vehicle. There is a narrow exception if displaying the plate is physically impossible due to the vehicle’s design, but the Washington State Patrol must grant an exemption, and it is not automatic.
Why Do License Plate Laws Matter?
License plate requirements are not just technical rules. They exist to ensure vehicles can be quickly and accurately identified. This becomes especially important after a crash, particularly in cases involving disputed liability or hit-and-run drivers.
When plates are properly displayed and visible, they serve as a critical tool for accountability and public safety. A properly displayed front plate can help identify the vehicle at fault for a car accident and support law enforcement and insurance investigations.
In many accidents, especially fast-moving or multi-vehicle crashes, witnesses may only see part of a car. A visible front plate makes it easier to identify the vehicle, which can help protect your ability to recover compensation. In hit-and-run cases, it can make the difference between finding the driver and having no clear path forward.
What Happens if You Do Not Have a Front Plate?
Failing to display a required front license plate is a traffic infraction in Washington. Under state law, vehicles issued two plates must display both. Violating this requirement is enforceable as a noncriminal traffic infraction.
Law enforcement can stop you for this issue alone, and you may face a fine. While it may seem minor, it creates an avoidable problem that can complicate matters if you are involved in a crash or legal claim.
Contact Montoya Hinckley Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Yakima Car Accident Attorney
Most drivers in Washington are required to display a front and rear license plate. If your vehicle was issued two plates, Washington law generally requires you to use both and keep them clearly visible.
Taking a few minutes to properly install a front plate can help you avoid a ticket and prevent unnecessary complications down the road. If you have questions about your rights after a crash or need help navigating a claim, speaking with an experienced Yakima car accident lawyer can help you protect your rights.
For more information, please contact Montoya Hinckley Injury Lawyers at (509) 895-7373 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Yakima or across Washington.
We proudly serve Yakima County and its surrounding areas.
Montoya Hinckley Injury Lawyers Yakima
4301 Tieton Dr, Yakima, WA 98908
(509) 895-7373
Hours: M-F 8 AM–12 PM AND 1–5 PM
Attorney Kevan Montoya
For over thirty years, Mr. Montoya has successfully represented clients in litigation involving multi-million dollar cases involving wrongful death, employment and business and commercial disputes. He regularly counsels businesses in Yakima and Central Washington on employment policies and helps businesses train employees regarding employment law compliance. He regularly speaks on employment issues. [ Attorney Bio ]
Attorney Tyler Hinckley
Tyler Hinckley represents individuals and businesses in state and federal court in litigation involving personal injury, property damage, employment claims, and business and commercial disputes. He represents individuals and businesses in a variety of employment cases, including wrongful termination, wage and hour, employment discrimination, and retaliation. Additionally, he represents individuals in residential construction defect and construction contract disputes, easement and boundary line disputes, and in cases involving damage to real property. Tyler also represents clients in administrative proceedings before state administrative agencies. [ Attorney Bio ]
