← Rhode Island driving laws›Front License Plate

Rhode Island Front License Plate Laws (2026)

Info: Rhode Island requires two plates: one on the front and one on the rear.

InfoVerified Jul 27, 2026

Vehicle rules change at the state line — and in your state.Track them in the free LawLert iPhone app: it alerts you when you cross into a state where they differ, and when they change in your state. No account.Get the app

Rhode Island requires two plates: one on the front and one on the rear. Motorcycles, trailers, transporter and in-transit vehicles, bailee-business vehicles, and dealer vehicles used in the dealer's business display a rear plate only. Every plate must be securely fastened horizontally, at least 12 inches off the ground, clearly visible, free of foreign materials, and legible. The fine is $100 (R.I. Gen. Laws 31-3-18; fine schedule 31-41.1-4).

Official source: webserver.rilegislature.gov →

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

Front License Plate in states bordering Rhode Island

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

ConnecticutInfo
Connecticut requires two plates: a vehicle issued two plates must display one at the front and one at the rear. See Conn. Gen. Stat. §14-18.
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: cga.ct.gov · Full Connecticut rule →
MassachusettsInfo
Massachusetts requires two plates: one attached at the front of the motor vehicle and one at the rear (M.G.L. c.90, §6).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: malegislature.gov · Full Massachusetts rule →

Don't get caught off guardCross into a state where this law is different and the free iPhone app tells you what changed, even with the app closed. It also alerts you when a law you track changes where you live. No account.Get the free app

Track this law — get alerted when it changes

We watch the official sources behind Rhode Island vehicle rules. If a tracked rule changes, you get one short email — never more than one a week. Free, unsubscribe anytime.