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 Louisiana (LA), the law requires that motor vehicles have a license plate issued by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, which is part of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. The license plate must be attached to the rear of the vehicle. Louisiana does not require a front license plate, so vehicles registered in Louisiana are only issued one plate. The state statutes specify the proper display of the license plate, which includes maintaining visibility and legibility, ensuring it is securely fastened to prevent swinging, and keeping it free from materials that obstruct or impair the reading and recognition of the license plate. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in traffic stops and citations. It's important for vehicle owners in Louisiana to adhere to these regulations to avoid legal issues.