Can I Drive Without a License Plate?

[VonLouis]

A vehicle without a license plate is not allowed on the road. It is necessary to promptly apply for a replacement at the local vehicle management office. Driving without a license plate may result in a fine and a deduction of 12 points if caught by traffic police. After losing a license plate, it is crucial to report the loss to the police immediately to prevent it from being used illegally by others. License plates, as stipulated by national vehicle management regulations, have a standardized format and design. They are hard number plates issued by vehicle management authorities after reviewing, inspecting, and registering vehicles that have applied for them. These plates bear registration codes and are installed on the designated front and rear positions of the vehicle as required. License plates serve as the legal permit for vehicles to operate on public roads and are used by traffic management departments, public security authorities, and the general public to monitor vehicle movements.

[HarleyDella]

As a veteran driver with thirty years of experience, I've encountered quite a few license plate issues. The license plate is like the ID card of a car, and you absolutely cannot drive without it. Last time, my neighbor Old Wang didn't believe it and insisted on driving to the repair shop after losing his plate, only to be stopped by traffic police halfway. He got 9 points deducted on the spot, fined 200 yuan, and his car was towed to the impound lot. The worst part was the delay—getting a replacement plate takes at least three days. Nowadays, with the Traffic Management 12123 APP, you can stop immediately and apply for a temporary e-plate if you find your plate missing, which is valid for 15 days. As an old driver, I suggest checking the license plate screws every time you wash your car, especially for friends in the north, where road salt in winter can easily corrode the fasteners.

[OWalter]

Never drive without a license plate! You could lose 9 points and get fined 200 yuan in minutes. Once, my license plate was stolen without me noticing, and I was caught by an electronic eye just after passing an intersection. Dealing with it was a huge hassle—points deducted, fines paid, and extra money spent on taxis to the traffic management office. Here’s the right way to handle it: Stop immediately and open the Traffic Management 12123 APP. Submit photos of your ID card and vehicle registration to apply for a replacement plate. While waiting for the new plate, remember to apply for a temporary license, which is valid for 15 days. When installing the new plate, use anti-vibration washers. If you often drive on bumpy roads, it’s best to add a license plate fixing frame to avoid future issues.

[AnthonyRose]

Driving without a license plate is strictly prohibited by traffic laws. Last month, a colleague from our company learned this the hard way during a business trip—his loose license plate flew off on the highway, resulting in a 9-point deduction. The standard replacement procedure is as follows: First, report to the local traffic police station for record, then take the receipt and ID to the vehicle management office to pay a 100-yuan fee. New plates are usually issued within three days. During this period, only a blue paper temporary plate can be used for driving. Before installing the new plate, ensure the mounting surface is thoroughly cleaned; use rust remover if there's rust to prevent the new plate from wobbling. In rainy weather, especially check the license plate base—clogged drainage holes can easily cause loosening.

[OBeau]

Driving without a license plate is absolutely prohibited! I've handled similar cases before, and the car owner was severely fined. Not only was the vehicle impounded on the spot, but it also left a violation record affecting the insurance premium the following year. The right thing to do is to go to the DMV for a replacement immediately. Bring your ID card and the original vehicle registration certificate, fill out the form, and pay a 100-yuan processing fee. The new license plate will be delivered by express in about five days. During the replacement period, you can apply for a temporary plate, but it must be displayed in the lower right corner of the front windshield. By the way, it's important to check the license plate fasteners every quarter. Plastic clips need to be replaced every two years, and metal license plate frames should be of the anti-theft locking type. Off-road vehicles should pay extra attention to whether the screws on the license plate bracket are loose.