You just bought the bike of your dreams and you’re ready to get out on the open road. Fresh air, travel and adventure await! Before you head out, there are few things you want to make sure you have so you don’t get yourself in trouble.
As silly and miniscule as it may seem, where you put your license plate could get you pulled over. If you want to avoid an encounter with the police, here are some tips on motorcycle license placement to keep you riding.
How to Display Your Licence Plate on Your Motorcycle
You should check your state’s laws regarding motorcycle license placement if you have concerns:
License places must be securely fastened and clearly visible. Never cover your motorcycle number plate with materials.
A proper license plate should meet the following requirements:
- Be in good physical condition and pass inspection and approval of the Division of Motor Vehicles
- Be registered to the specific motorcycle by the Division of Motor Vehicles
- Display a sticker issued by the division indicating that it is used for general transportation
Ensure to meet the above criteria before getting the motorcycle license plate mounting, as it saves money and time. If you also own a motor vehicle, license plate registration is the same process.
License Plates for Antique Motorcycles
Antique motorcycles are 25 or 30 years old or older (depending on the state) and the licensing displays that it is meant to be a collector’s item only. That means it’s not necessarily driven solely for basic transportation. If it is registered as a classic motorcycle, it may also need a different license plate.
Antique motorcycles can still be driven. After all, what is the point of having a classic ride that you can’t show off? Some states limit how and when they can be ridden:
- Participation in club activities, exhibits, tours, parades and other similar activities
- To test their operation and receive maintenance
- Recreational purposes on the weekend only
Dimensions of a Motorcycle License Plate
State |
Plate Length |
Plate Height |
Bolt or Hole Diameter |
Distance Between Bolt Holes |
Virginia |
7″ |
4″ |
5/16″ |
150mm– 5-7/8″ 70mm– 2-7/8″ |
North Carolina |
7″ |
4″ |
1/4″ |
150mm– 5-3/4″ 70mm– 2-3/4″ |
California |
7″ |
4″ |
1/4″ |
150mm– 5-3/4″ 70mm– 2-3/4″ |
Georgia |
7″ |
4″ |
1/4″ |
150mm– 5-3/4″ 70mm– 2-3/4″ |
Why Your Motorcycle License Plate is Important
If you ever get pulled over or you have been in an accident, your motorcycle number plate is a way for the police to identify who you are or who the motorcycle belongs to. A license number plate will help if someone were to steal it or take it for a cruise and crash it. In order to facilitate that, every state has developed its own motorcycle license plate display laws.
The first license plates became mandatory back in 1901 New York, when then Governor Benjamin Odell Jr. signed a bill that required owners of motor vehicles in the state to register.
Back then, things were a little less structured. Basically, all you had to do was put your initials in a visible place on your motor vehicle. The letters had to be three inches tall, but you could use any material that you wanted.
Of course, everyone’s initials got confusing. Once that system failed an official number was assigned to vehicle owners, rather than them using their own identification.
Not long after license plates came speed limits and other traffic laws intended to regulate how the growing number of drivers used the roads, along with motorcycle license plate display laws.
Conclusion
Ensuring your motorcycle obeys motorcycle license plate mounting laws is crucial for legal compliance and safety. Familiarize yourself with your state’s specific laws to avoid fines and complications. Proper plate placement not only fulfills legal obligations but also plays a vital role in identification and security.
Be sure to keep your license plate up to date, properly registered and placed accordingly on your motorcycle. You need it to be identified if you are ever in a motorcycle accident.
If you have been in an accident, call the Motorcycle Law Group today at(855) 529-7433. We know motorcycle law and we take care of our fellow riders like we would family.
FAQs
In most jurisdictions, motorcycle license plates must be mounted horizontally. However, some places allow vertical or sideways mounting if the plate remains clearly visible and readable from a reasonable distance. Check local regulations for specific requirements.
They may be legal in some states, but largely horizontal license plates are preferred. Essentially, visibility and readability are the key factors in legality. Check with local regulations whether it is allowed in your state or not.
The smallest legal size for a motorcycle number plate is 178mm in height and 228mm in width. Any deviation, including using a smaller plate, is considered illegal.
Yes, license plate covers are illegal in Iowa if they obscure any numerals or letters on the registration plate. It is unlawful to block the full view of the plate’s details.