Can I drive with one license plate missing?
2 Answers
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.
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.
