Adams Administration Announces New Rules to Crack Down on Drivers With Obscured License Plates

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 7, 2025

Contact: (212) 839-4850, press@dot.nyc.gov

Adams Administration Announces New Rules to Crack Down on Drivers With Obscured License Plates

New Rule Expands License Plate Obstructions Subject to Enforcement

NEW YORK – New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch today announced a set of proposed rules to expand the types of possible license plate obstructions subject to enforcement. The proposed rules, published Tuesday in the City Record, come alongside the launch of congestion pricing and a multi-agency crackdown against ghost cars citywide that has led to the seizure of tens of thousands of ghost cars and unregistered motorized vehicles.

"Drivers who obscure their license plate think they are above the law and put everyone at risk," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. "By expanding the definition of what is illegal, we will be able to hold reckless drivers accountable and create safer and more accessible streets for all."

"The NYPD, in collaboration with our partner agencies, is dedicated to holding accountable motorists who operate with impunity on New York City streets," said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. "Ensuring public safety is a shared responsibility among all road users, and our vigilant enforcement of traffic rules advances our mission to make people safe, to make them feel safe, and to improve overall quality of life in our city."

The proposed rules more clearly establish visibility requirements for license plates, prohibiting anything—including dirt, rust, glass or plastic coverings, substances, or materials—that renders a license plate unreadable, obscured, concealed, or distorted. Parking with an obstructed plate can result in a $50 fine.

A public hearing on the proposed rule will be held online on February 6, at 10 a.m. This hearing will provide an opportunity for the public to comment, provide feedback about the specifics of the rule. The deadline for written comments is 5 p.m. on February 6, 2025.

Specifically, the proposed amendments are as follows:

Visibility of License Plates: Plates must be properly displayed, securely fastened, and positioned between 12–48 inches from the ground whenever possible. Plates must be kept clean, not covered by glass or plastic material, and in a condition that ensures they are readable.

Prohibition of Vehicle Covers: No vehicle may be parked with a cover that obscures the make, color, vehicle identification number (VIN), license plates, registration stickers, or inspection stickers. Covers that restrict access to the vehicle are also prohibited when the vehicle is in violation of posted parking rules.

Ban on Obscured, Concealed, or Distorted License Plates: Plates cannot be covered by glass, plastic, or any material that distorts or obscures their visibility or photographic image. Materials mimicking legitimate license plates but not lawfully issued are strictly prohibited. License plates must not be obstructed by any part of the vehicle or by items carried on it, except for officially issued tolling transponders installed according to mounting instructions.

The Adams administration has taken significant action against illegal 'ghost cars'—vehicles with forged or altered plates that evade traffic cameras and toll readers. Since the start of the administration, over 73,000 ghost cars and unregistered motorized vehicles, including scooters, bikes, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), have been removed from city streets.

Ghost cars and other illegal vehicles pose significant risks to public safety and community well-being. These vehicles are increasingly linked to violent crimes, including shootings and robberies, as well as traffic violations such as hit-and-runs. They are able to evade automated camera enforcement. Furthermore, they deprive law-abiding taxpayers millions of dollars in unpaid tolls and fees—funds that could otherwise support critical public services.

Mayor Adams' interagency Ghost Car Task Force demonstrates the city's dedication to holding bad actors accountable and reclaiming streets for law-abiding New Yorkers. By removing ghost cars and illegal vehicles, NYC is ensuring safer roads and more equitable access to public spaces.

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