How to Properly Affix Temporary License Plates?
4 Answers
Temporary vehicle license plates should be affixed in two copies simultaneously. One copy should be placed in the lower left or right corner of the interior windshield, ensuring it does not obstruct the driver's view, while the other copy should be affixed to the lower left corner of the rear window glass. It is important to note that failure to adhere to these regulations may result in a 12-point penalty. Below are the precautions for affixing temporary license plates: 1. If there is one temporary license plate: It should be affixed to the lower left or right corner of the front windshield, ideally not obstructing the driver's view. 2. If there are two temporary license plates: One should be affixed to the front windshield, and the other should be placed on the lower left corner of the rear windshield inside the vehicle. If there is no space on the rear windshield, the second temporary license plate should be carried in the vehicle.
When I picked up my car, I specifically researched how to attach temporary license plates. Both front and rear temporary plates must be securely affixed. The one on the windshield should be placed in the lower left or right corner, making sure not to obstruct the driver's view. It's best to use a static cling sticker on the inside of the glass to avoid affecting road visibility. The rear plate should be attached to the lower left corner of the rear windshield—just peel off the adhesive backing and press it firmly in place. Remember to ensure the license numbers remain clearly visible and aren't blocked by wipers or seatbacks. Once, I saw someone casually place it on the dashboard, only for it to fly off during sudden braking, resulting in a traffic stop and fine. It's best to clarify the exact placement requirements when collecting the plates at the DMV, as regulations may vary slightly between cities.
Just got temporary plates for my new car, and the sales guy taught me how to do it: Stick the front one on the driver's side corner of the windshield. Don’t take shortcuts by using transparent tape directly on the glass—static cling stickers leave less adhesive residue. The rear one should be placed at the bottom left, keeping a distance from the reverse light. Make sure the license plate number faces outward. Paper temporary plates tend to curl at the edges, so press all four corners firmly with static cling stickers. I found that applying them on rainy days works better, but never wipe the glass with a towel—water stains can weaken the adhesive when dry. A friend of mine ignored the rear plate and got caught by a camera for not displaying a license plate within three days.
The placement of temporary license plates is actually quite particular. I've seen many incorrect examples: some people stick both front and rear temporary plates in the middle of the windshield, resulting in the cameras failing to capture the numbers. The correct method is to place the front plate in the lower corner of the driver's side view and fix the rear plate near the left rear light. When removing the adhesive film, avoid getting dust on it, and the glass should be cleaned with alcohol wipes first. Don't follow some people who use double-sided tape as a temporary fix—it can easily fall off in hot weather. Once, while exiting the highway, I saw traffic police checking the placement of temporary plates one by one, issuing fines on the spot for those without plates on the rear window—definitely not worth it.
