Is License Plate Cover Legal in Colorado? (2026)

Key facts

Status

Prohibited

Permit required

No

Jurisdiction

Colorado

Last reviewed

2026-02-15

License Plate Cover laws in Colorado

In Colorado, it is illegal to use license plate covers that obscure, alter, or otherwise make license plates unreadable. This prohibition is established under Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) § 42-3-201, which mandates that license plates must be kept legible and in condition to be read at all times. Specifically, any device or material that conceals or obscures the registration decal or the plate itself is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, tinted, smoked, reflective, or heavily textured covers that distort the plate's visibility or prevent it from being clearly read by law enforcement or automated enforcement systems. Violations of C.R.S. § 42-3-201 concerning license plate covers can result in significant penalties. Fines typically range from $25 to $500, depending on the specific circumstances and discretion of the enforcing officer or court. While these violations are generally classified as traffic infractions rather than misdemeanors or felonies, repeated offenses or non-compliance could lead to more severe consequences. The increased use of automated enforcement cameras, such as red-light cameras and speed detection systems, has also led to more frequent and stringent enforcement of this law, as these systems rely on clear license plate identification. There are no broad exceptions or exemptions for decorative or aesthetic license plate covers in Colorado, as the law prioritizes the readability of the plate. While a completely clear, non-tinted cover that does not in any way obscure or distort the plate's appearance or legibility *might* be permissible in some jurisdictions, Colorado law is strict on maintaining unobstructed visibility. Travelers and residents are strongly advised against using any type of license plate cover that could potentially impede the view of the license plate number, registration validation stickers, or any other official markings. The safest approach is to leave license plates uncovered and in their original, unaltered state.

Frequently asked questions

Is license plate cover legal in Colorado for travelers?

For travelers visiting Colorado, license plate cover is currently prohibited. In Colorado, it is illegal to use license plate covers that obscure, alter, or otherwise make license plates unreadable. This prohibition is established under Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) § 42-3-201, which mandates that license plates must be kept legible and in condition to be read at all times. Specifically, any device or material that conceals or obscures the registration decal or the plate itself is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, tinted, smoked, reflective, or heavily textured covers that distort the plate's visibility or prevent it from being clearly read by law enforcement or automated enforcement systems. Violations of C.R.S. § 42-3-201 concerning license plate covers can result in significant penalties. Fines typically range from $25 to $500, depending on the specific circumstances and discretion of the enforcing officer or court. While these violations are generally classified as traffic infractions rather than misdemeanors or felonies, repeated offenses or non-compliance could lead to more severe consequences. The increased use of automated enforcement cameras, such as red-light cameras and speed detection systems, has also led to more frequent and stringent enforcement of this law, as these systems rely on clear license plate identification. There are no broad exceptions or exemptions for decorative or aesthetic license plate covers in Colorado, as the law prioritizes the readability of the plate. While a completely clear, non-tinted cover that does not in any way obscure or distort the plate's appearance or legibility *might* be permissible in some jurisdictions, Colorado law is strict on maintaining unobstructed visibility. Travelers and residents are strongly advised against using any type of license plate cover that could potentially impede the view of the license plate number, registration validation stickers, or any other official markings. The safest approach is to leave license plates uncovered and in their original, unaltered state.

Do I need a permit for license plate cover in Colorado?

Colorado does not specifically require a permit for license plate cover, though general regulations apply.

Can I transport license plate cover through Colorado?

Transport laws for license plate cover in Colorado depend on the specific item and your route. Since this is prohibited in Colorado, transporting through the state carries legal risk. Always check states you pass through.

What are the penalties for license plate cover violations in Colorado?

Penalties for license plate cover violations in Colorado vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.