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Bill

SB 45

License plates; only rear plate required, exception.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Christie Craig and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia bill allowing single rear license plates instead of front and rear plates, with unspecified exceptions, to reduce vehicle owner costs and compliance burdens.

Incorporated by Transportation (SB13-DeSteph) (14-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 45

Legislative bill overview

SB 45 would modify Virginia's vehicle registration requirements to allow vehicles to display only a rear license plate instead of the currently mandated front and rear plates. The bill includes exceptions, though the specific exceptions are not detailed in the provided information. This change aligns Virginia with several other states that have adopted single rear plate requirements.

Why is this important

License plate requirements directly affect vehicle owners' costs and compliance obligations. Reducing the number of required plates could lower registration expenses for Virginia residents and simplify compliance. However, this change intersects with law enforcement priorities, as front plates are sometimes cited as useful for traffic enforcement and public safety applications like automated toll collection and traffic monitoring systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement concerns: Police agencies may argue that front plates enhance their ability to identify vehicles during traffic stops, investigations, and electronic enforcement systems
  • Safety and toll revenue: Front plates support automated enforcement systems for tolls, traffic violations, and amber alerts; their removal could complicate these operations
  • Consistency with federal requirements: Questions may arise about alignment with federal highway standards and whether this affects vehicle registration reciprocity with other states

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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