States ban license plate flippers and concealment devices

State lawmakers are banning devices that hide or flip license plates. At least nine states now prohibit these tools. Texas and Washington passed the first rules over ten years ago. California, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin have added bans since then.

Wisconsin law covers the use, sale, purchase and installation of plate flippers. Drivers caught with the devices can pay up to $1,000 in fines. They also face up to 90 days in jail.

Kansas updated its rules in July. The state now bans any material or object that covers a plate. Frames cannot block the state name, tag color, expiration month or plate number. Clear or tinted covers that reduce reflectivity are also prohibited. The rule applies to out-of-state vehicles. Drivers will get warnings until December 31. Fines of $60 begin on January 1.

New Jersey lawmakers are advancing a similar bill. The Senate passed S4265 this summer. It targets flippers, retractable holders, reflective sprays and blackout covers. First violations carry a $500 fine. Repeat offenses cost $750. Drivers may also lose motor vehicle and insurance eligibility points. The measure now waits in the Assembly committee.

Law enforcement agencies report more drivers using these tools to avoid tolls and traffic stops. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey lost about $40 million in toll revenue last year from obscured plates. Commercial carriers operating across state lines must keep plates fully visible to avoid penalties.

Source: Land Line — https://landline.media/hide-the-plate-dodge-the-toll-states-say-enough-is-enough/