License plates and decals

License plates and decals play a crucial role in identifying and registering vehicles for use on public roads. Here’s an overview of license plates and decals:

1. License Plates:
   • Every vehicle operated on public roads is required to have license plates, which serve as unique identifiers for vehicles. License plates typically display a combination of letters, numbers, and sometimes special characters.
   • Types of License Plates: Different types of license plates may be available depending on the jurisdiction and the vehicle owner’s preferences. This may include standard-issue plates, specialty plates (e.g., personalized plates, organizational plates), and specialty design plates (e.g., plates supporting causes or organizations).
   • Issuance: License plates are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in each state. When a vehicle is registered, the DMV assigns a set of license plates to the vehicle and issues a registration certificate.
   • Display: License plates must be securely attached to the front and rear of the vehicle, with the characters facing outward and clearly visible. Some jurisdictions may require additional plates or stickers to be displayed on the vehicle, such as registration stickers or inspection decals.
2. Registration Decals/Stickers:
   • Registration decals or stickers are small adhesive labels issued by the DMV that indicate the vehicle’s registration status and expiration date. These decals are typically affixed to the license plates to show that the vehicle’s registration is current.
   • Expiration Date: Registration decals display the expiration date of the vehicle’s registration, indicating when the registration must be renewed. Vehicle owners are required to renew their registration before the expiration date to avoid penalties and fines.
   • Renewal Process: To renew registration, vehicle owners must submit a renewal application to the DMV and pay the required fees. Once the renewal is processed, the DMV issues a new registration decal with an updated expiration date.
   • Placement: Registration decals are usually placed on the license plates in a designated location, such as the corner or bottom of the plate. Some jurisdictions may require decals to be placed on the front and rear plates, while others only require them on one plate.
3. Specialty Decals/Stickers:
   • In addition to registration decals, some jurisdictions issue specialty decals or stickers for specific purposes, such as vehicle inspections, emissions testing, or parking permits. These decals may have unique designs or colors to distinguish them from registration decals.
   • Requirements and Display: Specialty decals must be displayed according to the requirements set by the issuing authority. This may include placement on the windshield, rear window, or license plates, depending on the type of decal and its purpose.

License plates and decals are essential components of vehicle registration and compliance with state laws. By properly displaying license plates and decals and keeping them up to date, vehicle owners can ensure that their vehicles are legal for operation on public roads.