Texas State Inspection Practice

Will missing a front license plate cause a failed inspection if required by law?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only in certain counties

4. Only for newer vehicles

The correct answer is: Yes

A missing front license plate can indeed lead to a failed inspection if it is legally required in the state where the vehicle is registered. In Texas, state law mandates that vehicles, particularly passenger vehicles, display both a front and rear license plate unless they are exempt under specific conditions. The inspection process includes checking for compliance with all legal requirements, which encompasses proper display of license plates. If a vehicle is required to have a front license plate and it is missing, this will be considered a violation of the law and will result in a failed inspection. The inspector is obligated to ensure that all elements mandated by the Texas statutes are present and functioning correctly on the vehicle. Consequently, this aspect is treated seriously during inspections to ensure that all vehicles on the road comply with the state regulations, and thus, the absence of a front license plate will directly contribute to failing the inspection. The other answers hinge on factors that do not apply universally across Texas. There are no exceptions for certain counties regarding front license plate requirements, and the stipulation for only newer vehicles does not affect the overall rules governing license plates. Furthermore, all vehicles operating in Texas must adhere to the same licensing regulations regardless of their age or the county in which they are registered.