New License Plate Requirements To Be Proposed In PA

PENNSYLVANIA, PA — Pending state legislation would require a license plate on the front of a car as well as the rear for safety and security protection.

The bill is being proposed by state Sen. Katie Muth, a Democrat whose district includes portions of northeastern Chester and southwestern Montgomery and southeastern Berks counties.

"Requiring a license plate on the front of a car will improve vehicle identification and enhance public safety by helping law enforcement officers, witnesses, or cameras more easily and quickly identify a vehicle," Muth wrote in a recent memo to colleagues requesting support for the legislation. "A front license plate can also improve toll collections."

There are currently 29 other states that require a license plate on both the front and rear of all vehicles, including Pennsylvania's neighboring states of New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. There is also bipartisan legislation pending in Florida that would require a front and rear registration plate.

This year ushered in the first significant redesign of Pennsylvania license plates in 25 years. Out is the blue, white and gold design promoting the state tourism website VisitPA.com. In is an all-white plate with blue numerals bearing the slogan "Let Freedom Ring" in red and an illustration of the Liberty Bell.

"With all eyes on Pennsylvania as we prepare to host our country’s 250th birthday in 2026, our new
license plates and welcome signs will celebrate the best of what the Commonwealth has to offer and show the country why Pennsylvania is the great American getaway and the birthplace of American freedom," Gov. Josh Shapiro said when the new plates were introduced.

Muth, in a July 10 memo, said she plans to introduce the legislation "in the near future."