FAQs: Vehicle Lighting - License Plate Lighting

Under SB 439, Transportation Code §502.409 has been amended (effective 09/01/03) to prohibit attaching or displaying on a motor vehicle a number plate or registration insignia:

1. letters, numbers, or other identification marks that because of blurring or reflective matter are not plainly visible at all times during daylight, or
2. "an attached illuminated device or sticker, decal, emblem, or other insignia that is not authorized by law and that interferes with the readability of the letters or numbers on the plate or the name of the state in which the vehicle is registered". This would mean that, subjectively (or in the eyes of the law enforcement person), all illuminated license plate frames - especially the neon ones, are NOT LEGAL.