FLORIDA – Considering a fancy licensed plate that isn’t state-approved? You may want to reconsider that decision.
The Florida Highway Patrol is cracking down on drivers who customize licensed plates with airbrushed and vinyl wrap, citing them with tickets or removing their plates, leaving drivers to purchase a new license plate.
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According to FHP, tag alterations are quite common in Florida, and many drivers aren’t unaware that modifying a plate that interferes with the yellow validation stickers is illegal.
FHP is proactively raising awareness of drivers who are unaware of this specific law.
Under Florida law, Florida Statutes section 320.061 prohibits the unlawful altering of Florida License Plates. Such alterations clearly violate the legal requirements and violate the yellow validation stickers.
According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle, “Since 2020, citations for unlawful alteration of a Florida license plate have increased over 98%. The citation is classified as a moving violation, which includes a state fine of $60, three points on your license, and then an accompanying fee set by the county in which the citation was issued.”
Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) are warning drivers who have altered their Florida tag and cannot return it to its original condition. Drivers will be required to purchase a new licensed plate from the local tax collector.
“If a trooper sees a vehicle with an altered tag, they can seize the tag, requiring the owner to apply for a new license plate,” FLHSMV said.
Recently, the FLSHMV introduced a new line of license plates.
According to the FLSHMV, “Florida offers more than 100 specialty license plates for various organizations, with the proceeds from the sales going directly to support the causes they represent. Personalized license plates can also be ordered in person at a motor vehicle service center.”
For more information, click here.