To what extent does a scratched license plate need to be replaced?

[OManuel]

If it affects the recognition of the license plate number, or there are issues such as cracks or damage, the license plate needs to be replaced. The following is relevant information about license plates: 1. Physical definition: A license plate, commonly known as a vehicle plate, also refers to a vehicle registration plate, which is a plate hung at the front and rear of a vehicle. The materials usually used are aluminum, iron, plastic, or paper, on which the vehicle's registration number, registration region, or other relevant information are engraved. 2. Function: A license plate is a numbering and information registration for vehicles. Its main function is to identify the region to which the vehicle belongs through the license plate, and the owner of the vehicle and its registration information can also be traced based on the license plate.

[Alexa]

My license plate had been scratched several times before. Light scratches can be ignored as the numbers are still clearly visible. However, if the scratches are too deep and the numbers are worn off or incomplete, it's time to replace it immediately. I remember last summer when I parked under a tree, branches scratched the plate badly, leaving half the numbers missing. Later, I was pulled over on the highway by traffic police who said the plate was illegible—I got fined and warned. Since then, I've made it a habit to regularly take photos and check: stand back and see if over 90% of the numbers are recognizable—if so, it's fine. But if they're unclear or reflect poorly, especially when driving at night, it could cause trouble, so I must go to the DMV for a replacement. A friend had it worse—his plate was completely worn out, and it even caused issues during the annual inspection. Replacing it early saves hassle. The cost is low, just a few dozen yuan, but safety comes first.

[ElizaLynn]

License plate scratches are acceptable as long as readability is maintained. Superficial fine scratches can be ignored. However, deep scratches that cause numbers to deform or peel off, or significantly reduce reflectivity, require replacement. I often test by shining a flashlight at an angle—if the numbers remain complete and clear, it's fine; otherwise, they may not be captured by cameras on cloudy days or at night, necessitating action. Scratches can also trap dirt, accelerating corrosion, so regular cleaning prevents worsening. Replace severely damaged plates promptly at the local DMV—it's quick and inexpensive. Keeping plates legible avoids fines and ensures easy vehicle identification.

[KinsleyRose]

License plates must be replaced when scratched to the point where numbers are no longer clearly identifiable, as required by law. Blurred plates may result in fines or vehicle impoundment—I've seen real cases. Daily checks are simple: after washing your car, just look—if the numbers are readable, it's safe; if not, take action. The replacement process is convenient, with minimal fees at the DMV, so don't hesitate.