Colorado requires a front license plate on every vehicle

Colorado law states that every motor vehicle registered in the state must display a license plate on the front. This is not optional. If you register a vehicle in Colorado, you must have and display both a front and rear plate, even if your vehicle was designed with only a rear plate mount or came from a state with different rules.

The front plate must be clearly visible and readable from the roadway. It cannot be obscured by bumpers, trim, or aftermarket parts. Law enforcement can cite you for a missing or obscured front plate, and you may be asked to correct it before your vehicle passes inspection or renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado requires both front and rear license plates on all registered vehicles, with no exceptions for vehicle type or design.
  • The front plate must be clearly visible and cannot be hidden by bumpers, frames, or other parts.
  • You receive two plates when you register your vehicle — one for the front and one for the rear.
  • Driving without a front plate can result in a traffic citation and may prevent your vehicle from passing inspection.
  • If your vehicle lacks a front plate mount, you can install an aftermarket bracket or contact the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles for guidance.

What happens if you drive without a front plate

Driving without a front plate in Colorado is a traffic violation. A law enforcement officer can stop you and issue a citation. The penalty varies, but it is typically treated as a minor traffic offense that may result in a fine.

Beyond the when ready citation, a missing front plate can also cause problems during vehicle registration renewal or inspection. If your vehicle fails to display both plates, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles may not renew your registration until the issue is corrected. Some inspection stations will also flag a vehicle without a front plate and refuse to complete the inspection.

Installing a front plate on vehicles without a mount

Some vehicles — particularly sports cars, luxury imports, or older models — do not come with a front plate bracket from the manufacturer. If your vehicle lacks one, you have options. The most common solution is to purchase and install an aftermarket license plate bracket, which typically costs between $15 and $50 depending on the style and material.

Aftermarket brackets are available at auto parts stores, online retailers, and some dealerships. They bolt or adhere to the front bumper or fascia and hold the plate securely. Installation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes with basic tools. If you are uncomfortable installing it yourself, a mechanic or auto body shop can do it for a small labor fee.

If you have questions about the best bracket for your specific vehicle, contact the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles or visit a local DMV office. Staff can point you toward solutions that work for your vehicle type.

Getting your front plate when you register

When you register a new vehicle or renew your registration with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, you receive two license plates in the mail — one front and one rear. Both plates are included in your registration fee; there is no separate charge for the front plate.

If you lose or damage your front plate, you can request a replacement from the DMV. You will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of registration. Replacement plates cost a small fee, typically under $10, and can be ordered online through the Colorado DMV website or in person at a local office.

Temporary plates and front plate requirements

If you purchase a vehicle and receive a temporary registration permit or temporary plate while waiting for your permanent plates to arrive, the same rule applies — you must display a plate on the front if one is provided. Temporary permits are usually paper documents that go in the rear window, so a front plate may not be required during the temporary period. However, once your permanent plates arrive, you must install the front plate when ready.

Check your temporary registration paperwork to confirm whether a front plate is required during the temporary period. If you are unsure, contact the Colorado DMV or the dealership where you purchased the vehicle.

Moving to Colorado from another state

If you move to Colorado with a vehicle registered in another state, you have a limited time to register it in Colorado. Once you register it here, you must comply with Colorado's front plate requirement. This means obtaining Colorado plates and installing the front plate, even if your previous state did not require one.

When you register your out-of-state vehicle in Colorado, the DMV will issue you two plates. You will need to install both before driving legally. If your vehicle does not have a front plate mount, install an aftermarket bracket before your registration is complete or when ready after you receive your new plates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a waiver or exemption from the front plate requirement?

Colorado does not offer waivers or exemptions from the front plate requirement for any vehicle type. All registered vehicles must display both front and rear plates. If your vehicle lacks a mount, you must install an aftermarket bracket.

What if my front plate is damaged or faded?

If your front plate is damaged, faded, or unreadable, you can request a replacement from the Colorado DMV. Bring your vehicle registration and VIN to a local office, or order a replacement online. You should replace it as soon as possible to avoid a citation.

Do motorcycles need a front license plate in Colorado?

Motorcycles in Colorado are required to display a rear plate only, not a front plate. The front plate requirement applies to cars, trucks, SUVs, and other four-wheeled motor vehicles. Check your motorcycle's registration documents to confirm the specific requirement for your bike.

What if I just moved to Colorado and haven't registered my vehicle yet?

You have a limited time to register your vehicle after moving to Colorado — typically 30 days. During that time, you can drive with your out-of-state plates. Once you register in Colorado and receive your new plates, you must install the front plate within a reasonable time or risk a citation.

Can I use a frame or cover over my front plate?

Your front plate must be clearly visible and readable from the roadway. Frames are allowed as long as they do not obscure the plate number, letters, or state name. Covers, tinted shields, or reflective materials that make the plate harder to read are not allowed and can result in a citation.