Are License Plate Covers Legal in Pennsylvania? (2026)
Partially — License Plate Covers are legal with restrictions in Pennsylvania as of 2026.
Law changed in 2022: The law was amended in 2022 to clarify that any obstruction of the license plate is illegal.
Quick Answer
License plate covers are legal to sell in Pennsylvania, but using any cover that obscures or obstructs a license plate is illegal. Clear covers and frames are permitted as long as they do not obstruct the plate.
What the Law Says
Pennsylvania law makes it unlawful to display a license plate that is illegible, obscured, covered, or otherwise obstructed in any manner. While clear covers and frames are permitted, they cannot obstruct any information on the plate.
— State Vehicle Code
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Usage Rules | Illegal to use covers that obstruct or obscure license plates |
| Purchase & Sale | Legal to sell license plate covers |
| Penalties | Summary offense with fines up to $100; enforcement is strict |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The law was amended in 2022 to clarify that any obstruction of the license plate is illegal.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is strict. A 2022 amendment to the law makes it unlawful to display a license plate which is illegible, obscured, covered or otherwise obstructed in any manner.
Using any type of license plate cover is a common violation. Even clear covers are illegal and can result in a ticket.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Pennsylvania. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: License Plate Covers in Pennsylvania
What Happens If You Get Pulled Over With License Plate Covers in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania restricts license plate covers with specific conditions. If you're pulled over and you're outside those conditions — wrong amount, wrong location, missing permit — you're in the same position as someone in a state where it's fully illegal. Know the exact restrictions before you drive.
Bottom Line
License Plate Covers are legal with restrictions in Pennsylvania. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Pennsylvania vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, using license plate covers is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 42, and illegal in 8. Pennsylvania falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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