NYC License Plate Crackdown: New Rules Starting April 16

Starting April 16, New York City is implementing stricter rules regarding license plate visibility. This crackdown aims to improve public safety and enhance camera enforcement, targeting drivers who obscure their plates to avoid traffic violations and tolls.

Key Changes:

• Clear and Visible Plates: License plates must be securely fastened, clean, and unobstructed. No covers allowed.
• No More Obstructions: Dirt, rust, or any material hindering readability is prohibited. Plates must be clearly visible to both the human eye and automated cameras.
• Vehicle Covers Banned: Vehicles cannot be parked with covers concealing license plates, registration, VIN, or other identifying information.
• Fake Plates Prohibited: Any material concealing or mimicking legitimate plates is forbidden.

<img src="https://www.amny.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20231213_150417-scaled.jpg?w=1200" alt="Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez." >

Why the Change?

According to DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, clear license plates are crucial for public safety and efficient traffic flow. The DOT reports a 14% reduction in traffic injuries and deaths in areas with speed cameras in 2022. The NYPD will also be cracking down on "ghost plates"—unregistered or unidentified plates often linked to larger crimes.

Penalties:

A $50 fine will be issued for parking with an obscured license plate.

<img src="https://www.amny.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/52622997942_0e0092a3a3_k.jpg?w=700" alt="A fleet of 21 ghost cars confiscated by MTA Police, all in a single day, at the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge." >

This initiative emphasizes the importance of clear license plates for safety and efficient traffic management in NYC.