Overview
- Florida Statute 320.262, effective Oct. 1, bans devices that block the legibility, angular visibility or detectability of primary plate features such as the alphanumeric identifier and validation sticker.
- The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles sent a memo with a photo example confirming frames are permitted if they leave the number and top-right registration decal fully visible.
- Officials say text at the bottom of plates is not a primary feature, and a frame that touches the top edge is acceptable so long as the issuing state can still be identified.
- Penalties include a second-degree misdemeanor for purchasing or possessing an obscuring device, a first-degree misdemeanor for manufacturing or selling one, and a third-degree felony if used to facilitate a crime.
- Law enforcement has highlighted illegal tinted covers and signaled strict enforcement, while sellers such as the Florida Sheriffs Association note buyers are responsible for compliance despite product assurances.