Tennessee License Plate Lookup /Front License Plate

Does Tennessee Require a Front License Plate in 2025

Do You Need a Front License Plate in Tennessee

In the state of Tennessee, the requirement for a front license plate is not applicable. Tennessee is among the states in the United States that mandate only a rear license plate for vehicles. This regulation simplifies the process for vehicle owners, as they are only required to display a single license plate at the rear of their vehicle.

Key Points:

Single Plate Requirement: Tennessee requires only one license plate to be displayed on the rear of the vehicle.
Exemptions: There are no standard exemptions to this rule, as the state does not require a front license plate under normal circumstances.

When Are Front License Plates Required in Tennessee?

While the general rule in Tennessee is that only a rear license plate is necessary, there are specific situations where a front license plate might be required. These situations are typically not governed by state law but may be influenced by other jurisdictions or specific vehicle types.

Situations Requiring Front Plates:

Out-of-State Vehicles: Vehicles registered in states that require front license plates must comply with their home state laws even when operating in Tennessee.
Commercial Vehicles: Certain commercial vehicles that operate across state lines may be required to display front plates as per federal regulations or the laws of other states.
Specialty Vehicles: Some specialty vehicles, such as those used for promotional purposes, may opt to display a front plate for branding or identification purposes, though this is not a legal requirement.

Tennessee Front License Plate Laws

The laws governing license plates in Tennessee are outlined in the Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA). These laws specify the requirements for vehicle registration and the display of license plates.

Relevant Statutes:

TCA § 55-4-101: This statute outlines the general requirements for vehicle registration and the issuance of license plates.
TCA § 55-4-110: This section specifies the display requirements for license plates, affirming the necessity of a rear plate only.
TCA § 55-4-111: Details the penalties for non-compliance with license plate display requirements, which are primarily focused on the rear plate.

Enforcement:

Penalties: Failure to display a rear license plate can result in fines and penalties as determined by local law enforcement.
Exceptions: There are no exceptions for the display of a front license plate, as it is not required by state law.

Mounting Requirements for Front License Plates in Tennessee

Although Tennessee does not require a front license plate, understanding the mounting requirements can be beneficial for residents who travel to states where front plates are mandatory or for those who choose to display a front plate for personal reasons.

General Guidelines:

Mounting Location: If a front plate is used, it should be mounted on the front bumper or grille area of the vehicle.
Visibility: The plate should be clearly visible and not obstructed by any part of the vehicle or additional accessories.
Secure Attachment: The plate must be securely fastened to prevent it from becoming detached during vehicle operation.

Considerations for Out-of-State Compliance:

Bracket Installation: Vehicles that frequently travel to states requiring front plates may need to install a front license plate bracket.
Temporary Mounts: For temporary compliance, magnetic or suction cup mounts can be used, provided they ensure the plate remains visible and secure.

Recommendations:

Consult Vehicle Manual: Vehicle owners should consult their vehicle's manual for specific instructions on mounting a front plate, as some manufacturers provide designated mounting points.
Professional Installation: For those unfamiliar with mounting procedures, professional installation is recommended to ensure compliance with any applicable regulations.