THE TRUTH ABOUT ‘NO FRONT PLATE’ TICKETS IN MISSOURIThe Truth About ‘No Front Plate’ Tickets in Missouri

Is that missing front plate really worth the risk?

You just bought a new car or removed a front plate for cosmetic reasons—and then it happens. Red and blue lights in the mirror. The officer walks up and says, “You’re missing a front plate.”

You might think, “Seriously? That’s what I’m getting pulled over for?” But yes—in Missouri, driving without a front license plate can be a ticketable offense. And depending on the circumstances, it can lead to more than just a fine.

At Speeding Ticket KC, our experienced Kansas City traffic defense attorneys are here to break down what Missouri law actually says about front plates, what the penalties are, and how to fight back if you’ve been cited.

WHAT MISSOURI LAW SAYS ABOUT FRONT LICENSE PLATES

According to Missouri Revised Statute 301.130, vehicles registered in the state are required to display two license plates—one on the front and one on the back.

However, there are exceptions. As of August 2019, Missouri law was updated to say:

“The director shall issue two plates unless the vehicle is registered as an antique or is a truck with a gross weight of 18,000 pounds or more… Passenger vehicles that were not manufactured to be equipped with a front license plate bracket may be issued only one plate.”

What this means for Missouri drivers:

• Most vehicles still legally require two plates
• Some newer or specialty models without a front plate bracket may qualify for exemption
• If you’re stopped, you must prove you qualify for the exception
  

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU GET PULLED OVER FOR NOT HAVING A FRONT PLATE?

In many cases, a missing front plate is treated as a non-moving violation—similar to expired registration or a broken taillight.

But here’s where things get tricky:

• It gives police legal justification to pull you over
• During the stop, they can observe for DUI, drugs, or outstanding warrants
• It may lead to additional tickets if you’re not in full compliance (insurance, inspection, etc.)

So while the no-plate issue itself might be minor, the stop it creates can escalate quickly.

HOW MUCH IS A NO FRONT PLATE FINE IN MISSOURI?

In Kansas City and across Missouri, a no front plate ticket typically carries a fine between $25 and $100, depending on the jurisdiction.

But again, the cost of the ticket is often not the real risk—it’s the door it opens to other problems.

HOW TO FIGHT A NO FRONT PLATE TICKET IN MISSOURI

If you’ve received a ticket for no front plate, don’t just pay it without considering your options.

At Speeding Ticket KC, our affordable Missouri traffic defense lawyers can help:

• Determine whether your vehicle qualifies for a legal exemption
• Provide documentation showing manufacturer specs or bracket absence
• File motions to dismiss or reduce the citation
• Prevent the violation from affecting your insurance or driving record
  

We often resolve these cases without requiring you to appear in court, saving you time and hassle.

CAN A NO PLATE TICKET AFFECT MY INSURANCE AND DRIVING RECORD?

Usually, no front plate tickets don’t carry points, but depending on your driving history or insurer, it may still trigger a rate increase or flag on your policy.

Also, if you have multiple non-moving violations, they can collectively influence:

• License renewal
• Commercial driver (CDL) eligibility
• Background checks for employers

SHOULD YOU FIX THE ISSUE AFTER THE TRAFFIC STOP?

Yes. Whether or not you want to fight the ticket, installing a front plate after receiving the citation is a smart move. Many municipal courts will reduce or dismiss the charge if you show proof of compliance before the court date.

We can assist you in preparing the documentation to do this properly and keep your record clean.

NEED AN EXPERIENCED TRAFFIC DEFENSE ATTORNEY? CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC TODAY

If you’ve been cited for a no front plate violation—or a traffic stop that started with one, we’re ready to help. At Speeding Ticket KC, we know how to turn a frustrating citation into a manageable (and beatable) issue.

Call Speeding Ticket KC today to speak with a top-rated Missouri traffic defense attorney who can help you fight back the smart way.