Colorado requires a front license plate on all passenger vehicles

Colorado law mandates that every passenger vehicle display a license plate on both the front and rear of the vehicle. This means if you register a car, truck, or SUV in Colorado, you must mount a plate on the front bumper or frame — it is not optional. The requirement applies whether you are a resident registering a vehicle or a non-resident with a Colorado registration.

The front plate must be clearly visible and legible from a distance of at least 100 feet. It cannot be obscured by bumpers, trim, or aftermarket accessories, and it must be mounted securely so it does not flap or move. Law enforcement can stop you if the front plate is missing, obscured, or illegible, and you may receive a citation.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado requires both a front and rear license plate on all passenger vehicles registered in the state.
  • The front plate must be visible and legible from at least 100 feet away and cannot be covered or obscured.
  • Driving without a front plate or with an obscured front plate can result in a traffic citation.
  • Motorcycle and trailer regulations differ from passenger vehicles, so check the specific rules for your vehicle type.

What vehicles must display a front plate in Colorado

Passenger cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and vans registered in Colorado all require a front plate. If you own any of these vehicle types and have a Colorado registration, the front plate is mandatory. The rule applies to both new and used vehicles, and to both residents and non-residents who register vehicles in the state.

Motorcycles have different rules and do not require a front plate in Colorado — they display only a rear plate. Trailers and semi-trailers also follow separate regulations. If you are unsure whether your specific vehicle type requires a front plate, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website lists the requirements by vehicle class, or you can contact your local DMV office.

How to obtain a front license plate in Colorado

When you register a vehicle with the Colorado DMV, you receive two license plates — one front and one rear — as part of the standard registration package. You do not order them separately or pay extra for the front plate. Both plates arrive together, and you are responsible for mounting them before driving the vehicle on public roads.

If your front plate is lost, stolen, damaged, or illegible, you can request a replacement from the Colorado DMV. You will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and current registration. Replacement plates cost a fee, which varies depending on the plate type. You can order replacements online through the Colorado DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.

Mounting and display requirements for front plates

The front plate must be mounted on the front of the vehicle in a location that is clearly visible and not obscured. Most vehicles have a designated mounting location on the front bumper or frame. The plate must be mounted securely and horizontally, and it cannot be bent, folded, or tilted in a way that makes it difficult to read.

You cannot cover the plate with a frame, tint, or any other material that obscures the numbers or letters. Decorative frames are allowed as long as they do not cover any part of the plate itself. Tinted or smoked plate covers are illegal in Colorado and can result in a citation. If your vehicle's design makes it difficult to mount a front plate, contact the Colorado DMV to discuss your options — some vehicles may be granted exceptions, though this is rare.

Penalties for missing or obscured front plates

Driving without a front plate or with a plate that is obscured, illegible, or improperly mounted is a traffic violation in Colorado. Law enforcement can stop you for this violation alone. The citation is typically a minor traffic offense, but it does go on your driving record and may result in a fine.

The exact fine amount varies by county and the specific circumstances, but minor traffic violations in Colorado generally range from $65 to $100 or more. In addition to the fine, you may receive points on your driving record, which can affect your insurance rates. If you receive a citation for a missing or obscured front plate, you have the option to contest it in traffic court or to correct the violation and show proof to the court.

Out-of-state vehicles and temporary registration

If you are visiting Colorado with an out-of-state vehicle, you do not need to obtain a Colorado front plate. Your home state's registration and plates are valid in Colorado as long as they are current and properly displayed. However, if you move to Colorado permanently or register your vehicle in the state, you must obtain Colorado plates and display both front and rear plates within the timeframe specified by the DMV — typically 30 days of establishing residency.

Temporary registration permits issued by Colorado also do not require a front plate during the temporary period, but once you receive permanent plates, both must be displayed. If you are unsure whether your vehicle's registration status requires Colorado plates, contact the DMV or check your registration documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a decorative frame around my front license plate?

Yes, decorative frames are allowed in Colorado as long as they do not cover any part of the plate numbers, letters, or state name. The entire plate must remain visible and legible. Frames that obscure any portion of the plate are illegal and can result in a citation.

What if my vehicle does not have a front bumper or mounting location?

Most vehicles have a designated front mounting location. If yours does not, contact the Colorado DMV to discuss your options. Some specialty or custom vehicles may be granted exceptions, but you will need to document the issue and submit a request. In most cases, a mounting bracket or alternative location can be found.

Do I need a front plate if I only drive my vehicle off-road?

If your vehicle is registered for on-road use in Colorado, you must display a front plate whenever it is driven on public roads, even occasionally. Off-road-only vehicles that are not registered for street use do not require plates. Check your registration to confirm your vehicle's classification.

What happens if I get a ticket for a missing front plate?

You can pay the fine, contest the ticket in traffic court, or correct the violation and show proof to the court. If you correct it, bring your vehicle with the properly mounted front plate to the courthouse or submit photos showing the plate is now displayed correctly. The court may dismiss the ticket if you demonstrate compliance.

Do motorcycles need a front license plate in Colorado?

No, motorcycles in Colorado display only a rear license plate. Front plates are not required for motorcycles. Trailers and semi-trailers also have different plate requirements — check the Colorado DMV website or contact an office for specific rules about your trailer type.