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Maryland Front License Plate Laws (2026)

Info: Maryland requires two plates: passenger cars must display one on the front and one on the rear.

InfoVerified Jul 23, 2026

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Maryland requires two plates: passenger cars must display one on the front and one on the rear. See Md. Transp. 13-411.

Official source: mgaleg.maryland.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Front License Plate in states bordering Maryland

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

DelawarePermitted
Delaware requires only a rear plate: the state issues a single plate, displayed on the rear, and no front plate is required. See 21 Del. C. §2126.
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: delcode.delaware.gov · Full Delaware rule →
District of ColumbiaInfo
The District of Columbia requires two plates: a vehicle must display two identification tags, one on the front and one on the rear (DCMR 18-422).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: dcrules.elaws.us · Full District of Columbia rule →
PennsylvaniaPermitted
Pennsylvania requires only a rear plate: a single plate is issued and displayed on the rear. The state has not required a front plate since 1952 (75 Pa.C.S. 1332).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania rule →
VirginiaInfo
Virginia requires two plates: one on the front and one on the rear. This is still current as of 2026 — repeal efforts have failed (Va. Code 46.2-715).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →
West VirginiaPermitted
West Virginia requires only a rear plate: the plate is attached to the rear. Only truck tractors and road tractors mount their plate on the front (WV Code 17A-3-15).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: code.wvlegislature.gov · Full West Virginia rule →

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