Pennsylvania License Plate Laws

Each state has it’s own requirements regarding license plates on cars. For example, in some states, only a rear license plate will do while in other states both a rear and a front license plate are necessary. Almost half of the states in the United States make it mandatory that cars have both license plates in the front and rear of a vehicle. 

Pennsylvania license plate laws, for most vehicles, only require one license plate in the rear of a car. Despite the need for the majority of vehicles only need one license plate, there are still guidelines under the law regarding driver's license plates that Pennsylvania drivers should know. 

Understanding Pennsylvania License Plate Laws

Pennsylvania only mandates one license plate on the rear of a vehicle, and it serves as a means to identify the vehicle. There are several reasons why vehicles need identification. For instance, if a car accident happens, knowing a vehicle’s license plate number is essential. Similarly, if a car runs a red light, a camera affixed to a traffic signal may be able to capture the license plate and then determine who must be served with a fine for the violation.

Complying with Pennsylvania license plate laws means:

• A license plate must be attached to a car where the bottom of the plate is a minimum of 12 inches from the ground.
• The license plate must be placed horizontally on the vehicle.
• The license plate must be clearly visible.
• The license plate must be securely placed on a vehicle, it must not hang or loosely move about.
• License plates that are illegible from damage or for any other reason must be replaced immediately.

While most private vehicles only need one license plate, other vehicles must have two. The following vehicles must have both a front and rear license plate in Pennsylvania:

• State-owned passenger vehicles
• Commercial truck tractor-trailers
• Cars used by press and photography

If you are a resident of the Keystone State and will be driving, complying with the law is a must. Failure to do so can result in a citation and fines.

And if you happen to be injured in a car accident in Pennsylvania, collecting information about the other drivers involved is essential. Along with contact and insurance information, taking down the license plate numbers of those involved is important. Contacting an attorney soon after to help you start the claims process is another helpful action to take.

Speak with an Attorney at Edelstein Martin & Nelson

Recently, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported that across the 67 counties in the state, 110,382 reportable Pennsylvania car accidents took place. These accidents claimed the lives of 1,209 individuals, and 66,563 people suffered injuries. The total losses from these reportable traffic accidents cost $30,983,839,374.

If you were hurt in a car accident in Pennsylvania, Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP, can help you file a claim for compensation to recover the costs of your damages. Call our reputable legal team today at (215) 731-9900 and schedule a free consultation with our experienced Pennsylvania car accident attorney.