License Plate Frames in Virginia
No colored glass, colored plastic, bracket, holder, mounting, frame, or other covering may alter or obscure the alpha-numeric information, the color of the plate, the state name, or any character indicating the month or year the registration expires.
Verified against primary sources · August 2026
What the law says
No colored glass, colored plastic, bracket, holder, mounting, frame, or other covering may alter or obscure the alpha-numeric information, the color of the plate, the state name, or any character indicating the month or year the registration expires. Covers: not allowed where they alter or obscure any protected element.
Specific Limits
- Covers
- not allowed where they alter or obscure any protected element
- Must stay visible
- alpha-numeric information, plate color, state name, and expiration characters
Exceptions & Exemptions
License plate frames are permitted but must not cover or obscure any portion of the license plate number, letters, registration decals, or other identifying information
Frequently Asked Questions
Are license plate frames legal in Virginia?
What are the exact license plate frames limits in Virginia?
Are there exceptions for license plate frames in Virginia?
Street-legal license plate frames picks
Gear that helps you mod without a ticket in Virginia.
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.
Shop on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, Is My Mod Legal earns from qualifying purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend gear that helps you stay street-legal.