Should I Replace One or Both Front License Plates If One Is Lost?
2 Answers
If the front license plate is lost, you should replace both. Below are the functions of license plates: 1. Identifying the vehicle's region: The primary function is to determine the vehicle's region of registration. 2. Facilitating inquiries: The license plate can also be used to look up the vehicle's owner and registration details. In most countries, any vehicle driven on public roads must display license plates, with strict regulations on size, font, and color. Additionally, in some countries, motorcycles and exempted vehicles may only need to display one license plate.
I previously encountered a situation where my front license plate was stolen, so I specifically went to the DMV to inquire about it. The staff told me that I must replace a new pair because applying for a single plate separately would result in inconsistency in the degree of wear and a significant difference in reflectivity. If the traffic police see a brand-new front plate and an old rear plate, they might suspect you of intentionally obscuring the license plate. Moreover, the DMV system's replacement process defaults to changing them in pairs, and trying to replace just one actually goes against the regulations. Later, I spent over a hundred yuan to replace the full set and took the opportunity to check the license plate frame screws to prevent further theft.
