Is License Plate Cover Legal in Mississippi? (2026)
It depends. In Mississippi, 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
- Mississippi
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
License Plate Cover laws in Mississippi
In Mississippi, the use of license plate covers is regulated under Mississippi Code Annotated § 63-21-11. This statute prohibits any device or material that obstructs the view of a license plate. While the law does not explicitly ban all types of covers, it mandates that license plates must be clearly legible at all times. This generally means that clear, non-tinted covers that do not obscure the plate's characters or numbers may be permissible, but tinted, smoked, or reflective covers that hinder readability are typically prohibited. Violations of § 63-21-11 can result in fines. While specific amounts for license plate cover violations are not detailed, general penalties for equipment violations of this nature can range from minor traffic citations to more substantial fines, potentially accruing as points on a driver's record. These offenses are typically classified as misdemeanors, and while jail time is uncommon for this specific infraction, it can be a possibility for repeat offenders or in conjunction with other more serious traffic violations. There are no widely publicized or specific exceptions or exemptions for license plate covers in Mississippi beyond the general requirement of clear visibility. Recent legislative changes pertaining specifically to license plate covers have not been significant. However, it is worth noting that increased use of automated enforcement systems, such as red-light cameras and speed cameras, can lead to stricter interpretation and enforcement of laws requiring clear license plates, as these systems rely on legible plates for identification. For both Mississippi residents and travelers passing through the state, it is advisable to avoid any license plate covers that could be construed as obscuring or diminishing the readability of the license plate. This includes any covers that are tinted, smoked, or have a reflective quality. Opting for a completely clear, non-obstructive cover is the safest approach to ensure compliance with Mississippi law and avoid potential fines or citations.
Frequently asked questions
Is license plate cover legal in Mississippi for travelers?
For travelers visiting Mississippi, license plate cover is currently restricted. In Mississippi, the use of license plate covers is regulated under Mississippi Code Annotated § 63-21-11. This statute prohibits any device or material that obstructs the view of a license plate. While the law does not explicitly ban all types of covers, it mandates that license plates must be clearly legible at all times. This generally means that clear, non-tinted covers that do not obscure the plate's characters or numbers may be permissible, but tinted, smoked, or reflective covers that hinder readability are typically prohibited. Violations of § 63-21-11 can result in fines. While specific amounts for license plate cover violations are not detailed, general penalties for equipment violations of this nature can range from minor traffic citations to more substantial fines, potentially accruing as points on a driver's record. These offenses are typically classified as misdemeanors, and while jail time is uncommon for this specific infraction, it can be a possibility for repeat offenders or in conjunction with other more serious traffic violations. There are no widely publicized or specific exceptions or exemptions for license plate covers in Mississippi beyond the general requirement of clear visibility. Recent legislative changes pertaining specifically to license plate covers have not been significant. However, it is worth noting that increased use of automated enforcement systems, such as red-light cameras and speed cameras, can lead to stricter interpretation and enforcement of laws requiring clear license plates, as these systems rely on legible plates for identification. For both Mississippi residents and travelers passing through the state, it is advisable to avoid any license plate covers that could be construed as obscuring or diminishing the readability of the license plate. This includes any covers that are tinted, smoked, or have a reflective quality. Opting for a completely clear, non-obstructive cover is the safest approach to ensure compliance with Mississippi law and avoid potential fines or citations.
Do I need a permit for license plate cover in Mississippi?
Mississippi does not specifically require a permit for license plate cover, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport license plate cover through Mississippi?
Transport laws for license plate cover in Mississippi 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 Mississippi?
Penalties for license plate cover violations in Mississippi vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.