Can You Drive with One Missing License Plate?
2 Answers
Driving with one missing license plate is not allowed. If your license plate is lost, you should immediately go to the traffic management department to apply for a replacement. Driving a car without a license plate on the road will result in a 12-point penalty if caught by traffic police. After losing a license plate, remember to call the police first to prevent it from being used illegally by criminals as a fake plate. According to the Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations: If a motor vehicle's license plate or registration certificate is lost, missing, or damaged, the vehicle owner must apply for a replacement at the local vehicle management office. When applying, the owner must fill out an application form and submit proof of identity. The vehicle management office will review the submitted documents and proofs, and retrieve any undamaged or lost license plates or registration certificates. A replacement registration certificate will be issued within one day of acceptance, and a replacement license plate will be issued within 15 days of acceptance, with the original license plate number remaining unchanged. During the replacement period, a temporary license plate valid for no more than 15 days will be issued.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I must be honest—driving with a missing license plate is absolutely not allowed. I remember making this mistake when I was younger. After my rear plate was stolen, I thought it wasn't a big deal and drove to the supermarket anyway. Halfway there, I was pulled over by the police, fined 200 yuan, and had points deducted from my license. I deeply regretted it afterward. The law requires complete front and rear license plates to be displayed at all times—missing one is equivalent to having no identification, which is illegal. Worse yet, if you're involved in an accident, insurance may not cover it or it could be hard to determine liability, putting yourself and others at risk. Head to your local DMV right away to get a replacement—just bring your vehicle registration and ID, and it'll be quick and inexpensive. Don't take chances; safety is far more important than saving a few bucks.
