HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — A simple license plate cover could be a ticket for drivers to land themselves in hot water if they’re not careful.

The law that took effect on Oct. 1 threatens harsh punishments of up to a $500 dollar fine or even 60 days of jail time if a driver is convicted of the violation.

Specifically, the so-called license plate law prohibits anything that obscures, covers or interferes with the visibility of the plate, including the decal sticker.

Now, those fancy plate covers seen on cars of all makes and models could spark a traffic stop.

“It seems like a lot, especially in the times we’re in now,” said driver Sharie Reid. “We’ve got to pay for everything. Everything is higher, everything costs more and now they’re going to add this?”

Several police departments in central and northern Florida have been putting the word out to drivers by posting the correct and incorrect ways to display plates on vehicles

Those posts have made sure to note that officers are not going after people with simple plate frames, but rather drivers who intentionally alter or block characters on their plate, to include tinted license plate frames.

“Another hassle by the government, that’s how I feel about it,” said driver Deanna Goldstein. “What’s the big deal? They know how to drive you nuts.”

Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.