Is License Plate Cover Legal in Minnesota? (2026)
It depends. In Minnesota, license plate cover is restricted. License plate covers are restricted in this state. Clear covers that do not obstruct readability may be permitted, but tinted, smoked, or reflective covers are typically prohibited. Laws vary — check specific state vehicle code for what types of covers are allowed..
Key facts
- Status
- Restricted
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Minnesota
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
License Plate Cover laws in Minnesota
In Minnesota, the use of license plate covers is governed by Minnesota Statutes § 169.79, which requires that license plates be kept clean and legible. While the statute does not explicitly ban all license plate covers, it mandates that plates must be plainly visible and legible at all times. This implies that any cover that obscures the plate's readability, whether through tinting, smoke, or reflective material, would be in violation. Clear, non-obstructive covers that do not alter the appearance or readability of the license plate are generally considered permissible, provided they do not interfere with law enforcement or automated camera identification. Violations of Minnesota Statutes § 169.79 regarding obscured license plates can result in a petty misdemeanor. Penalties typically include fines, which can range from $75 to $300, although specific amounts may vary depending on the discretion of the issuing officer and the court. There is no provision for jail time for this offense, and it does not carry a criminal record classification. Enforcement of this statute may be heightened due to the increasing use of automated traffic enforcement and surveillance systems that rely on clear license plate identification. There are no specific statutory exemptions or recent changes regarding license plate covers in Minnesota beyond the general requirement for plain visibility. Travelers or residents considering using a license plate cover should opt for a completely clear, non-tinted, and non-reflective cover that does not alter the appearance or legibility of the license plate under any lighting conditions. It is advisable to err on the side of caution and avoid any cover that could be perceived as obscuring or altering the plate's information to prevent potential citations.
Frequently asked questions
Is license plate cover legal in Minnesota for travelers?
For travelers visiting Minnesota, license plate cover is currently restricted. In Minnesota, the use of license plate covers is governed by Minnesota Statutes § 169.79, which requires that license plates be kept clean and legible. While the statute does not explicitly ban all license plate covers, it mandates that plates must be plainly visible and legible at all times. This implies that any cover that obscures the plate's readability, whether through tinting, smoke, or reflective material, would be in violation. Clear, non-obstructive covers that do not alter the appearance or readability of the license plate are generally considered permissible, provided they do not interfere with law enforcement or automated camera identification. Violations of Minnesota Statutes § 169.79 regarding obscured license plates can result in a petty misdemeanor. Penalties typically include fines, which can range from $75 to $300, although specific amounts may vary depending on the discretion of the issuing officer and the court. There is no provision for jail time for this offense, and it does not carry a criminal record classification. Enforcement of this statute may be heightened due to the increasing use of automated traffic enforcement and surveillance systems that rely on clear license plate identification. There are no specific statutory exemptions or recent changes regarding license plate covers in Minnesota beyond the general requirement for plain visibility. Travelers or residents considering using a license plate cover should opt for a completely clear, non-tinted, and non-reflective cover that does not alter the appearance or legibility of the license plate under any lighting conditions. It is advisable to err on the side of caution and avoid any cover that could be perceived as obscuring or altering the plate's information to prevent potential citations.
Do I need a permit for license plate cover in Minnesota?
Minnesota does not specifically require a permit for license plate cover, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport license plate cover through Minnesota?
Transport laws for license plate cover in Minnesota depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for license plate cover violations in Minnesota?
Penalties for license plate cover violations in Minnesota vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.