If You’ve Got One of These on Your Car, You Could Get a Ticket

If you live in Arizona, you may have noticed some drivers have a special cover over their license plates. Drivers often install these because they're trying to keep red light cameras from grabbing their license plate numbers, usually if they run a red light or speed through a school zone, especially if the often drive through areas where red light cameras are installed.

This brings up some questions. First, are these covers legal? And do they really work? Second, what's the best way to avoid getting a red light camera ticket? Glad you asked!

Are License plate Covers Legal in Arizona?

If you drive in Arizona's larger cities, like Tucson or Phoenix, it's much more likely you'll run into places where red light cameras are installed, so you might be tempted to put one of these covers over your license plate in an attempt to prevent a ticket. But don't do it!

According to Arizona Revised Statutes 28-2354, it is unlawful to "display a number plate that is covered, obscured or otherwise unreadable".

This includes any device that alters or obscures the plate number or makes it difficult to read electronically, like these little sunglass-colored covers.

License Plate Covers Could Cost You a LOT

And if you do, it could cost you! The penalty for violating this law could be a fine of up to $250.

The best way to avoid a red-light ticket is to slow down, pay attention and come to a complete stop at any red light. That way, you won't have to worry about getting a surprise ticket in the mail - no matter where you drive!