Stick it on the Bumper, Honey, Not the Breakfast Bar: A Texan's Guide to License Plate Placement
Howdy, partners! Ever looked at your shiny new car and thought, "Man, that front license plate sure is crampin' my dashboard feng shui?" Well, hold your horses (or should we say, armadillos) because slapping that sucker on your dash might not be the yeehaw solution you're thinkin'.
The Law, the Whole Law, and Nothing But the Law (Well, Almost)
Now, Texas prides itself on freedom, but there are a few things even a maverick like you shouldn't mess with. One of those? The trusty Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Those folks say in their fancy Texas Administrative Code (Chapter 217.27) that your car needs two license plates, displayed with pride on both the front and back. And here's the kicker: they gotta be mounted securely on the exterior of your vehicle, in a nice horizontal position, no less than 12 inches from the ground (gotta be visible to those pesky traffic cameras, you see).
So, that dream of your license plate harmoniously blending in with your dashboard cactus collection? Looks like it's time to mosey on over to plan B.
But Why Can't I Be a Dashing License Plate Daredevil?
Sure, it might seem like a harmless little shortcut. But listen up, buttercup. A windshield-mounted plate can become a dangerous projectile in a crash. Imagine that bad boy flying towards your head faster than a greased pig at a county fair – not exactly a recipe for a good time.
Plus, cops like to see your plate nice and clear. A sneaky dashboard display might just land you a friendly (or not-so-friendly) chat with the law and a potential ticket. You know what they say, don't mess with Texas – and that includes messing with their license plate placement rules.
Don't Fret, There's a Solution for Every Pickup Truck (and Sedan)
Don't worry, partner, there's no need to resort to hiding your license plate under your Stetson. Most cars come with a designated spot on the front bumper for your plate to shine. If yours doesn't, there are plenty of tow hook license plate mounts that'll do the trick.
Remember: A happy car with a properly displayed license plate is a ticket-free car! So, keep your dashboard clutter-free and your plates on the outside where they belong.
Now, git out there and show off your Texas pride (and your adherence to the law) with a good ol' fashioned bumper-mounted license plate!
