In Florida, it’s illegal to use aftermarket or unauthorized license plate designs, as outlined by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles DHSMV.
The state offers over 100 official specialty plate designs for vehicle registration, but a growing number of drivers, especially in South Florida, are opting for unauthorized, modified plates. This trend has become a significant issue for law enforcement.
Authorities, including Lt. Alex Camacho of the Florida Highway Patrol, are working to curb this rise in aftermarket plates, warning that such modifications can result in a $114 fine, along with vehicle towing and the seizure of the modified plate.
This crackdown is not just about following the law but ensuring safety. Modified plates can obscure the visibility of critical information, complicating toll enforcement, and making it more difficult for law enforcement to confirm vehicle registration.
The uptick in citations—particularly in South Florida—has been stark, with a 98% increase in ticketing related to modified plates over the past year.
Authorities have noted that businesses like Platemakrs, which customizes plates via social media, are contributing to the problem. Investigations are underway into the role these businesses play in facilitating illegal plate modifications.
For those in Florida, sticking with state-approved designs is recommended, not only to avoid fines but also to support charitable causes. The proceeds from the state’s specialty plates fund initiatives benefiting veterans, first responders, and environmental causes.