Are you worried about getting pulled over by the police? Do you want to be able to drive without fear of getting caught? If you answered yes to either of those questions, you might be interested in purchasing a fake license plate.


Although it may not seem like a big deal, driving without the proper documentation can lead to serious consequences. In this article, we'll explore the legality of having a fake license plate and tell you everything you need to know if you're considering purchasing one.

The legal definition of a fake license plate

When it comes to driving, the law is always changing. So, if you're not sure whether or not having a fake license plate is illegal, it's best to contact your local law enforcement agency. However, here are some general guidelines on the subject:

  • It's illegal to have a fake license plate that is registered in any state other than your own. 
  • It's also illegal to use a fake license plate that was issued to someone else. 
  • If you're caught with a fake license plate that has been cancelled or revoked, you'll be subject to fines and possible jail time.

What constitutes a fake license plate

It's illegal to have a fake license plate in most states. A fake license plate is one that has been altered, either by painting it over or adding a different state's logo. This can be punishable by fines and/or jail time.

To determine if your license plate is fake, law enforcement will look for common signs of fraud, such as:

  • A false name or address on the plate
  • Unlicensed plates being used on the vehicle
  • Plate numbers that don't match those on the vehicle
  • A registration that's out of date

The consequences of having a fake license plate

It might not seem like a big deal to install a fake license plate on your car, but it could have serious consequences. Fake plates can lead to fines and arrests, and they can damage your vehicle's engine. In some cases, the installation of a fake plate can also lead to criminal charges.

If you're ever stopped by law enforcement, be sure to have valid documentation with you that proves you own the vehicle and the license plate on it. Also, always keep in mind that police are allowed to seize any vehicles or property they believe is associated with a crime.

How to get a fake license plate

It may seem like a harmless prank to get a fake license plate, but in some cases it can be illegal. If you're caught driving with a fake license plate, you could face fines and/or jail time. 

Here are some things to keep in mind when getting your fake plate:

  • Make sure the license plate is accurate. If it's not, you could get fined or even arrested.
  • Choose an appropriate name and number for your fake plate. Make sure no one will mistake your plate for the real thing.
  • Don't try to use a stolen or illegally obtained license plate. This could lead to criminal charges and serious consequences for you and your car.

When to avoid getting a fake license plate

When it comes to getting a fake license plate, you want to avoid any situation where you might get into trouble with the law. Here are four things to keep in mind:

  • Avoid getting a fake license plate if you plan on driving regularly. A forged or stolen license plate can lead to serious legal consequences.
  • Don't go out of your way to get a fake license plate. It's illegal and can lead to trouble.
  • Make sure your real license is prominently displayed when driving. A forged or stolen license number won’t match up with your real one if it's not visible from the driver’s seat.
  • Be aware of who is selling fake licenses plates and don't buy them from anyone you don’t know well or trust.

In this article, we’ve been exploring the topic of fake license plates. We’ve looked at the legal definition and discussed what constitutes a fake license plate. We’ve also covered the consequences of having one and provided tips on how to get one, as well as when to avoid them. 

So, if you’re looking to scare your friends or add a touch of humor to your driving experience, be sure to check out our article on fake license plates!