License plates (also known as vehicle registration plates or license tags) are generally rectangular metal plates issued by your state’s department of motor vehicles for the purpose of identifying your car. A license plate must be attached to the rear of your car, and in 31 states and the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.), you must also have a license plate on the front of your car. In a state or district that also requires you to display a license plate on the front of your car, your failure to do so will provide the police with probable cause to stop you and issue a citation at any time. State laws (statutes) generally provide for the specific placement of license plates, stated in minimum and maximum inches from the ground.

In Iowa, vehicles are required to display license plates issued by the Iowa Department of Transportation. According to Iowa Code section 321.37, every owner of a motor vehicle must attach the license plate to the rear of the vehicle. The plate must be securely fastened and clearly visible. Iowa is one of the states that require only a rear license plate; there is no statutory requirement for a front license plate. The law specifies that the license plate should be maintained free from foreign materials and in a condition to be clearly legible. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in a traffic stop and citation by law enforcement officers. It is important for vehicle owners in Iowa to ensure their rear license plate is properly attached and visible at all times to avoid potential legal issues.