Liz Crenshaw, NBC Washington’s consumer reporter, discusses license plate rules and penalties for the D.C. metropolitan region.

Question: Is it illegal to cover the state information on your license plate with a frame?

Answer: Yes. DC, VA, and MD all say that it's illegal to cover or obstruct the name of the state on a license plate. The DC DMV adds that even clear coverings can obstruct a state, which can especially be a problem for speed and red-light camera tickets. Fines range from $25.00 in Virginia to $55.00 in Maryland for obstructing the state on your license plate. Also, if you cover up your entire license plate in the District, you will get hit with a $500.00 fine.

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