Do You Need a Front License Plate in Georgia?

When registering a vehicle in Georgia, you’ll receive a metal license plate, a registration sticker (or decal), and a registration certificate. While many states issue two license plates (one for the front and one for the rear), Georgia only requires a rear license plate.

Here’s everything you need to know about license plate laws in Georgia, according to a Georgia car accident attorney.

Is a Front License Plate Required in Georgia?

No. Georgia does not require a front license plate. Under Georgia Rule 560-10-10, all vehicles must have one license plate securely attached to the rear of the vehicle.

When you register a car in Georgia, you’ll receive a single metal plate. As of 2022, Georgia also became one of just a few states to allow digital license plates, offering more modern alternatives to traditional metal tags.

Why Georgia Doesn’t Require Front Plates

Several reasons explain Georgia’s decision:

• Cost Savings: Issuing one plate lowers manufacturing and distribution costs.
• Vehicle Design Compatibility: Many new vehicles come without front plate brackets. Retrofitting can be costly for owners, especially those moving from a one-plate state to a two-plate one.
• Technology Adaptation: Most traffic cameras, toll readers, and enforcement tools are designed to capture images from the rear of the vehicle.

However, there are some downsides:

• Reduced Daytime Visibility: Research shows front plates improve visibility and reflectivity, potentially reducing accidents.
• Easier Identification: Front plates make it easier to identify vehicles from different angles—especially useful in hit-and-run crashes involving pedestrians or cyclists.
• Increased Toll and Fine Revenues: More visible plates mean better enforcement and collection.

Additional License Plate Laws in Georgia

If you're registering a vehicle or already own one in Georgia, you should also know:

• Newly acquired vehicles must be titled and registered within 7 days of purchase at your local County Tag Office.
• License plates must be legible and unobstructed. It is illegal to cover them with any material (unless it’s transparent and colorless).
• Tampering is a crime. Concealing, altering, defacing, or using fake decals is illegal.
• Plates must match the vehicle. It’s unlawful to display a license plate that belongs to a different vehicle unless legally transferred.
• Lost or stolen plates must be reported to law enforcement before requesting replacements from the tag office.
• Plate transfers between vehicles you own are allowed—but require an official update at your County Tag Office.

Georgia vehicle registration typically must be renewed annually. However, certain groups—including disabled veterans and National Guard members—may qualify for five-year license plates.

Stay Informed, Stay Legal

Understanding Georgia’s license plate requirements helps you avoid fines and legal trouble—and contributes to safer roads.

If you have questions about traffic laws, vehicle compliance, or were involved in an accident involving improperly plated vehicles, Kunnatha Lawson LLC is here to help.