Are Number Plate Brackets Legal?

Mounting a license plate might seem like a small detail—but it can have big consequences. With the rise of automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras, stricter road regulations, and more frequent inspections, even something as simple as a license plate frame or bracket can lead to a fine. So, are number plate brackets legal in 2025? The short answer: yes—but only if used correctly.

In this guide, we break down five key points every driver should understand when choosing a plate holder for car. We’ll also introduce Alite Nanotape, a no-drill, frameless license plate holder that’s gaining momentum as the go-to legal and aesthetic choice.

Brackets Are Legal—As Long as They Don’t Obstruct the Plate

Most regions allow the use of license plate frames and brackets—provided they don’t interfere with legal plate visibility. The problem arises when a frame hides even a small portion of your registration sticker, state name, or number.

What to avoid with standard brackets:

Thick borders that hide key elements
Decorative frames with slogans or tinted lenses
Frames made for plates in other countries or sizes
Hardware that creates glare or shadows

Even a minor obstruction can trigger a violation—especially with cities relying on high-speed ALPR systems. If you’re still using a bulky license plate bracket, it may be time to switch to a safer, more modern method.

Not All License Plate Frames Are the Same

When we say “license plate frame,” we’re talking about a range of mounting products: slim metal borders, oversized dealership surrounds, silicone wraps, and even Velcro license plate holders.

Legal issues usually arise from poor design choices or improper fit. Some aftermarket frames look stylish but are incompatible with local plate dimensions or reflectivity standards. Others vibrate loose over time, potentially damaging the vehicle or risking detachment at high speed.

If you choose to use a frame, ensure it fits your local plate format perfectly, doesn’t rattle, and leaves all registration markings visible. A thin, minimalist metal frame may be fine in most jurisdictions—but check your state’s laws before installing.

Still, more drivers are skipping frames entirely and moving to clean, frameless options for a sleeker, worry-free solution.

Alite Nanotape: The Legal, Frameless Game-Changer

If you’re looking to mount your license plate without screws, holes, or bulky frames, the smartest solution is Alite Nanotape – a frameless license plate holder with no drilling required.

Here’s why Alite Nanotape is the best license plate frame alternative in 2025:

Completely frameless: zero obstruction = 100% legal
No tools or drilling: perfect for leased, new, or high-end cars
Weatherproof grip: holds tight through rain, heat, and snow
Ultra-slim “floating” effect looks great on any bumper
Compatible with flat and slightly curved surfaces

Drivers of all types—EV owners, sports car enthusiasts, and everyday commuters—are switching to Alite Nanotubes because it solves legal, aesthetic, and installation issues all at once.

Unlike screws and brackets, this high-tech mounting tape doesn’t loosen or rust. It holds your plate flush against the body, eliminates rattling, and avoids interfering with cameras or lighting.

Brackets Become a Problem When They’re Misused

While brackets themselves are not illegal, issues often arise from incorrect installation, poor compatibility, or unawareness of regional laws. In fact, bracket-related violations are one of the most common reasons for traffic stops and failed inspections.

Here are typical mistakes drivers make:

Installing a bracket made for the wrong plate size
Using mounting kits that don’t fit curved or custom bumpers
Letting bolts or screws rust and cause staining
Allowing metal-on-paint contact that scratches the surface

Worst of all, some drivers aren’t aware their setup is even illegal—until they receive a ticket or fail an inspection. That’s why an increasing number of people are turning to bracket-free systems like Alite Nanotape that eliminate all guesswork.

Frameless = Freedom: Why More Drivers Are Making the Switch

In 2025, vehicle design is moving toward minimalism—both for aesthetics and compliance. That shift is reflected in the rising popularity of frameless license plate holders like Alite Nanotape, which offer more than just good looks.

Advantages of going frameless:

No frame = no obstruction = no risk
Nothing to rust, shift, or rattle
No impact on aerodynamics or exterior design
Compatible with ALPR systems and legal in all jurisdictions
Easy to remove when selling, leasing, or servicing your vehicle

As license plate laws evolve and cities adopt more surveillance technology, staying compliant without sacrificing style is more important than ever. With Alite Nanotape, you don’t have to compromise – https://alite.cc/collections/nanotape.

To sum it up: yes, number plate brackets and license plate frames are legal in most regions—but only if they don’t obstruct visibility or interfere with reflective and identifying features. With growing ALPR camera usage, even minor violations can lead to fines or failed inspections.

Rather than navigating all the do’s and don’ts of brackets, many drivers are choosing the simpler, cleaner, and safer route: Alite Nanotape. This frameless, tool-free mounting system removes legal ambiguity and gives your vehicle a seamless, professional look.

If you value your car’s appearance and want a solution that’s both legal and long-lasting, it’s time to leave brackets behind—and stick with Alite Nanotape.