You cannot drive on the road if the front license plate is missing. Article 95 of the Road Traffic Safety Law states: If a motor vehicle driven on the road does not display a motor vehicle license plate, does not carry an inspection compliance mark or an insurance mark, or does not have the vehicle registration certificate or driver's license on board, the traffic management department of the public security organ shall detain the motor vehicle, notify the party to provide the corresponding license plates, marks, or complete the necessary procedures, and may impose penalties in accordance with the provisions of Article 90 of this Law. If a motor vehicle driven on the road does not display a motor vehicle license plate, does not carry an inspection compliance mark or an insurance mark, or does not have the vehicle registration certificate or driver's license on board, the traffic management department of the public security organ shall detain the motor vehicle, notify the party to provide the corresponding license plates, marks, or complete the necessary procedures. Regulations on motor vehicle license plate display: When driving a motor vehicle on the road, the motor vehicle license plate must be displayed, along with the inspection compliance mark and insurance mark, and the vehicle registration certificate must be carried on board. The motor vehicle license plate must be displayed clearly and completely as required, and must not be intentionally obscured or damaged. No unit or individual may confiscate or detain a motor vehicle license plate. Procedure for replacing a license plate: Report the loss of the license plate at the local police station where the plate was lost to obtain a certificate of loss. Prepare the required materials, fill out the corresponding forms at the vehicle management office, and provide the original and copy of the vehicle owner's identity proof. If an agent is involved, the agent must also submit their original and copy of identity proof and a written authorization from the vehicle owner. The applicant should take the Motor Vehicle License Plate Application Form, identity proof, and other required documents to the service window at the vehicle management office for processing. The non-lost license plate will be retrieved, and the applicant will receive an acceptance receipt and pay the fee. The applicant can then collect a temporary license plate with the acceptance receipt and payment receipt, which should be prominently displayed on the front of the vehicle. After ten working days, the applicant can take the temporary license plate to the designated location to collect the new license plate and have it installed.
