What is the penalty for missing a license plate cover?
3 Answers
If caught by traffic management authorities, you will face a fine and a 12-point deduction. Motor vehicle license plates must be mounted as required by regulations, using dedicated sealing devices for license plates at designated positions. Not using dedicated sealing devices for motor vehicle license plates or using other mounting devices is considered illegal. License plates must be installed with four nuts at both the front and rear, totaling eight mounting holes. Missing license plate screw caps or insufficiently installed screws are considered as not mounting the motor vehicle license plate as required. More information about the nuts is as follows: 1. Function: The nuts on the license plate are a very inconspicuous part of the car, hardly noticeable unless viewed up close, but traffic management authorities have extremely strict requirements for them. This is mainly because license plate screws, on one hand, can prevent some car owners from arbitrarily removing or replacing motor vehicle license plates; on the other hand, they can prevent criminals from engaging in license plate cloning, thereby protecting the interests of car owners. 2. Features: The nuts have a unique mark indicating the municipal district where the vehicle is registered. Traffic management authorities can use this mark to check whether the car is a cloned vehicle.
I often encountered the issue of missing license plate screw covers when tinkering with cars. While missing one cover might seem minor, it can lead to serious problems on the road: these covers protect the screws from rusting due to rainwater exposure. Without them, screws are prone to rust and loosening, causing the license plate to tilt or become unstable. If traffic police find your plate obscured or incomplete during inspections, traffic regulations typically impose a hefty fine of 200 yuan plus 6 penalty points. The main causes are these small parts getting dislodged on bumpy roads or knocked off during car washes. My advice? Don’t delay—replace it immediately: buy a matching OEM screw cover for just a few bucks on Taobao or at an auto parts store, then install it yourself with a screwdriver—simple and cost-effective. Make it a habit to check these covers during routine car maintenance to prevent issues before they arise. Though a small component, securing your license plate ensures safe travels and avoids unintended harm to yourself or others.
As a car owner familiar with traffic regulations, I understand that people often overlook minor issues, but missing a license plate cover involves legal boundaries. The Road Traffic Safety Law stipulates that license plates must be clearly visible and unobstructed; missing one cover, if it causes the plate to become dirty or unstable, can easily be considered a violation, typically resulting in an on-the-spot fine of 200 yuan and 6 penalty points. In practice, enforcement varies by region—some officers may only issue a warning or set a deadline for rectification, imposing severe penalties only for non-compliance. Safe driving isn't just about skill; details determine success. I recommend immediate action: order a replacement cover online or visit a 4S store—don’t wait to be checked. You can review penalty point records on the 12123 app and address minor issues promptly. Maintaining license plate integrity is a basic responsibility—it saves hassle and ensures safety.
