License Plate Frames in Florida
Knowingly applying material that interferes with any feature of a Florida plate is a second-degree criminal misdemeanor. From October 1, 2026, SB 488 narrows the protected elements to the plate number and registration decal — and expressly makes frames lawful when both stay visible.
Verified against primary sources · September 2026
What the law says
Fla. Stat. § 320.061 makes it a second-degree criminal misdemeanor (since October 1, 2025) to knowingly apply or attach a substance, reflective matter, illuminated device, spray, coating, covering, or other material that interferes with the legibility, angular visibility, or detectability of the plate. SB 488 (ch. 2026-39, effective October 1, 2026) narrows the protected elements to the alphanumeric designation and the registration decal, and adds that a frame or decorative border is not an offense when both remain unobscured. The separate display statute, § 316.605, remains a noncriminal infraction, and plate-obscuring devices such as flippers are criminalized by § 320.262.
Specific Limits
- Covers
- banned if they interfere with legibility, angular visibility, or detectability
- Frames
- conditional
- Must stay visible
- any feature or detail (through Sept 30, 2026); the plate number and registration decal (from Oct 1, 2026, SB 488)
Exceptions & Exemptions
License plate frames are permitted but must not cover or obscure any portion of the license plate, including all letters, numbers, the state name, or any registration decals or validation stickers
Statute
Fla. Stat. § 320.061 (obscuring; misdemeanor); § 316.605 (display; infraction); § 320.262 (devices)
Read the statute →Frequently Asked Questions
Are license plate frames legal in Florida?
What are the exact license plate frames limits in Florida?
Are there exceptions for license plate frames in Florida?
Street-legal license plate frames picks
Gear that helps you mod without a ticket in Florida.
A low-profile frame that doesn't cover the state name, tags, or registration stickers.
Shop on AmazonMost states require the plate lit in white — not a tinted or colored bulb.
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