Can I drive with one license plate missing?

[McRuth]

You cannot drive with one license plate missing; you need to obtain a temporary license plate to drive legally. How to handle a lost license plate: After losing a vehicle license plate, you should visit the relevant vehicle management department to apply for a replacement as soon as possible. Note that if one plate is lost and you apply for a replacement, the remaining undamaged plate will also be confiscated, and you will receive two new plates. Driving without a license plate is illegal, so a temporary license plate is required. However, temporary license plates have an expiration date, after which they can no longer be used. Penalties for driving with a missing license plate: Losing a license plate is not an excuse for driving without proper plates. According to regulations, vehicles must display license plates to be driven on public roads. Otherwise, you will face penalties, including a 12-point deduction on your driving record and a fine.

[DiDeclan]

As a veteran driver with nearly 20 years of experience, I can tell you that driving with a missing license plate is absolutely not allowed. License plates are like a car's ID card—both front and rear plates must be present for legal driving. If you're caught by traffic police or surveillance cameras with a missing plate, you'll definitely face fines and points, at least 200 yuan and 6 points, and in severe cases, your car may even be impounded. Moreover, the risks on the road are higher. In case of an accident, the insurance company might deny your claim due to the incomplete plates. I remember a friend who drove unaware that his rear plate had fallen off halfway, and he ended up dealing with penalties all day. The best course of action is to park your car immediately and apply for a temporary plate at the DMV as soon as possible—don't prioritize convenience over safety.

[SanLouis]

I usually enjoy studying traffic regulations, and driving with a missing license plate is really not worth the risk. Traffic rules clearly stipulate that both front and rear license plates must be intact and clearly visible for normal driving; otherwise, it constitutes a violation. If caught driving without a complete plate, the fine starts at 200 yuan, and you may also face demerit points, affecting your driving record. More importantly, with an incomplete license plate, the camera system may fail to accurately identify your vehicle, leading to potential misjudgments or overlooking hazards. From my research, I've found that many accidents involve disputes over license plate issues, resulting in failed insurance claims. I recommend contacting the vehicle management office immediately for a replacement and using public transport or ride-hailing services as a temporary solution instead of driving.

[AdalineLee]

Bro, if your license plate is lost, don't even think about driving—it's too risky. Getting caught by traffic police means at least a 200-yuan fine and 6 points deducted, not to mention the impact on your driving record. It's even worse in bad weather or at night with poor lighting; an incomplete license plate can easily get your car flagged as suspicious, leading to a U-turn and inspection. Park your car safely and wait for a replacement plate—it's the smarter move. Don't let a moment of impulsiveness bring you trouble.