Is My License Plate Frame Legal in Oregon?

Having a license plate frame or plate holder is legal in Oregon, so long as it does not obscure any information or render it unreadable.
Written by Andrea Barrett
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
background
In
Oregon
, so long as the plate information is not obstructed and the letters are legible, tacking on a customized license plate frame is legal. 
Many people like to customize their vehicles to reflect their personal style and flair, and those style changes can even translate to something as simple as their
Oregon license plate
. Adding a plate frame or cover can add some spice to a mundane license plate. 
While most states allow drivers to add frames and covers to their license plates, not all of them do. That’s why knowing the laws in your state can save you from a run-in with the law and a potentially sizeable fine. 
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Jerry
is walking you through the details of the license plate laws in Oregon. We’re looking at what’s legal, what’s not, and the consequences you may be subject to if you disobey plate regulations.
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Yes—authorities in Oregon allow drivers to use license plate frames and covers as long as they do not obstruct any content on the plate or render them unreadable

What are the rules for license plate frames in Oregon?

Chapter 803.550
of the Oregon Vehicle Code states that “a registration plate is illegal … if the plate has been altered, modified, covered or obscured in any manner including, but not limited to, the following: any frame or plate holder that obscures the numbers, letters or registration stickers, so as to render them unreadable.”
For all you diehard sports fans, proud parents, or school alumni, Oregon is giving you the thumbs up on that license plate frame. However, license plate frames are only legal if they do not obstruct any content on the plate

What about license plate covers?

License plate covers are not legal in Oregon. Adding any sort of material or covering to the license plate, other than a frame or holder, may alter the appearance of the license plate, which is why this is prohibited in Oregon.

What are the fines for license plate frames in Oregon?

Individuals that violate Oregon vehicle regulations and obscure their license plate with a tinted cover may be subject to a $265 fine, as it is considered a Class B traffic violation.
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