The registration number, commonly known as the license plate, is found on the front and rear of the vehicle's exterior. The most common and easily visible locations are mounted on the bumper or a dedicated bracket on the trunk lid. You'll typically find one plate on the front and one on the rear, though some states, like Pennsylvania, only require a rear plate.
Beyond the standard locations, there are a few other places to check. On the dashboard inside the windshield, you might find a temporary registration tag issued by a dealer. The official vehicle registration document (the paper you get from the DMV) also contains the plate number and should be kept in the car. For precise identification, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is permanent, is etched on a metal plate on the driver's side dashboard, visible through the windshield, and on the driver's side door jamb.
The requirement for front and rear plates varies by state. The table below shows the plate requirements for a selection of states to illustrate the differences.
| State | Front Plate Required? | Rear Plate Required? | Notes |
|---|
| California | Yes | Yes | Both plates are mandatory. |
| Florida | No | Yes | Only a rear plate is required. |
| New York | Yes | Yes | Both plates are mandatory. |
| Texas | Yes | Yes | Both plates are mandatory. |
| Arizona | No | Yes | Only a rear plate is required. |
| Pennsylvania | No | Yes | Only a rear plate is required. |
If you cannot locate the plates, your vehicle registration card will have the number listed. Always ensure your plates are securely attached, clean, and unobstructed to avoid citations.
