It started as a quick trip to the grocery store. Jake had just bought a used car from a private seller the day before and hadn’t made it to the DMV yet. With no plates on the back, he figured a short drive through town wouldn’t raise eyebrows.
But within minutes, red and blue lights filled his rearview mirror. The officer wasn’t buying the “I just bought it” excuse — because in Wisconsin, driving without plates isn’t just risky, it can cost you up to $200, even if the car was only parked on the road.
Jake learned the hard way that when it comes to plates, Wisconsin law doesn’t leave much room for grace.
What does ‘driving without a license plate’ mean?
Driving without a license plate means operating a vehicle on public roads without displaying the permanent or temporary plates required by your state’s laws.
Every state mandates license plates to identify a vehicle and link it to its registration and owner. Plates help law enforcement and other officials verify that the vehicle is registered, insured and legally permitted to be on the road.
Are you allowed to drive without plates?
Generally, no.
Driving without permanent plates is illegal across the U.S. unless you’re within a state’s short grace period after purchase and have temporary tags or a dealer plate properly displayed. This temporary authorization typically expires within a few weeks after buying a vehicle.
Typical license plate requirements
- Permanent plates: Issued by the DMV after vehicle registration.
- Temporary tags/permits: Short-term plates provided by a dealer or DMV that let you legally operate the car while waiting for permanent plates.
- Front vs. rear plates:
- Most states require at least a rear plate.
- Some states require both front and rear plates.
- Check your state’s rules before driving.
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Penalties for driving without a license plate in Wisconsin
Wisconsin state law prohibits operating a vehicle without required plates properly attached. If you’re caught:
- A fine of up to $200: A court may require you to forfeit up to $200.
- This is treated as a civil infraction, not a criminal offense, but you’ll still face monetary penalties and must bring the vehicle into compliance.
What if your plates are lost or stolen?
If your plates are lost or stolen:
- Report the theft/loss to the Department of Motor Vehicles — and often police — immediately.
- Request replacement plates.
- Use temporary tags if allowed until replacements arrive.
Failing to display valid plates while driving — even if they were stolen — can still result in a ticket.
How does driving without license plates affect car insurance?
- Insurance isn’t a substitute for plates: Having car insurance alone doesn’t allow you to legally operate a vehicle without plates. Vehicles must meet registration and plating laws to be legally driven.
- Coverage issues after violations: If you’re in an accident while driving without plates, insurers might scrutinize the claim more closely because missing plates can signal other compliance issues.
Quick compliance checklist
✔ Register your vehicle with the DMV as soon as possible.
✔ Display temporary tags if you don’t yet have permanent plates.
✔ Know whether your state requires one or two plates.
✔ Replace lost, stolen or damaged plates immediately.
✔ Carry current proof of insurance separate from plates.
Bottom line
Driving without license plates is generally illegal and a common traffic violation. Most states allow only a short window with temporary tags after purchase. To avoid fines, penalties and legal issues that can complicate insurance situations, make sure your vehicle is properly registered and plated before hitting the road.
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