FL Drivers Warned Not To Unlawfully Wrap Car License Plates: FHP

FLORIDA — Florida drivers who illegally wrap their license plates face fines and points on their licenses, the Florida Highway Patrol warned Wednesday.

State authorities said license plates cannot be airbrushed, vinyl-wrapped or customized. They said such violations go against Florida's reflectivity and safety enhancement laws.

"Tag alterations like these are frequently found in communities across Florida, and the FHP is being proactive in raising awareness of the law. This is to ensure that individuals who may not realize they are breaking the law by altering their tags are informed," the FHP said in a news release.

Authorities said citations for altering tags have increased by at least 98 percent in the last four years.

If a driver violates the legal tag requirements, the FHP said drivers may face a $60 fine from state officials, three points placed on their driver's licenses and a county fine.

Drivers who may have altered their tags and are unable to return it to its original condition should replace the tag, authorities said.

"Troopers encountering altered tags can seize the tag requiring the owner to apply for a new license plate," the FHP said.

Authorities advised Florida has at least 100 specialty license plates for various organizations available to drivers. Personalized license plates can also be ordered at a motor vehicle service center.