Interior/Exterior Question for Police Officers...
#1
11-01-2006, 05:35 PM
Question for Police Officers...
I've painted the background of my Michigan plate from gloss blue to flat black...is this illegal? I understand that laws vary from state to state but I've seen countless hot rods and bikes with such customization and have been told by many that as long as it doesn't "obstruct" the plate numbers, it's ok...is this true in my case? The reflective lettering has not been altered...
Thanks in advance...
Thanks in advance...
#3
11-01-2006, 05:46 PM
I'm curious about the clear plate shield too...I've been busted for a smoked shield but this one is clear...is that a problem too or does this depend on what the cop had for dinner?
In case you're wondering why I don't just ask my police friend...well, he was in our club until he sold his Mini and can't be found lately...
#4
11-01-2006, 05:52 PM
All laws vary by state and sometimes even by city. The area in which I live
has a traffic offense that reads it is illegal to "remove, conceal, alter, mark
or deface the license plate or any other mark of identification on the vehicle".
It's kinda like the white taillight mod without installing the red reflector. You
take your risk on who wants to write a ticket that day.
has a traffic offense that reads it is illegal to "remove, conceal, alter, mark
or deface the license plate or any other mark of identification on the vehicle".
It's kinda like the white taillight mod without installing the red reflector. You
take your risk on who wants to write a ticket that day.
#5
11-01-2006, 06:00 PM
wow, nice job on that! 
that should be fine.
the clear plastic.... it's debateable. 1st it blocks some reflection off
the numbers.
second, from a detailer's perspective, after a wash there will be some
clouding and water marks left on the inside of the plastic that will be
an eye irritant
especially when covering a dark colored plate.
i say, leave it off. clearcoat it?!
that should be fine.the clear plastic.... it's debateable. 1st it blocks some reflection off
the numbers.
second, from a detailer's perspective, after a wash there will be some
clouding and water marks left on the inside of the plastic that will be
an eye irritant
especially when covering a dark colored plate. i say, leave it off.
clearcoat it?!The numbers do reflect and have not been altered...Officer Chan
I'm curious about the clear plate shield too...I've been busted for a smoked shield but this one is clear...is that a problem too or does this depend on what the cop had for dinner?
In case you're wondering why I don't just ask my police friend...well, he was in our club until he sold his Mini and can't be found lately...
I'm curious about the clear plate shield too...I've been busted for a smoked shield but this one is clear...is that a problem too or does this depend on what the cop had for dinner?
In case you're wondering why I don't just ask my police friend...well, he was in our club until he sold his Mini and can't be found lately...
#6
11-01-2006, 06:09 PM
wow, nice job on that! that should be fine.
the clear plastic.... it's debateable. 1st it blocks some reflection off
the numbers.
second, from a detailer's perspective, after a wash there will be some
clouding and water marks left on the inside of the plastic that will be
an eye irritant especially when covering a dark colored plate.
i say, leave it off. clearcoat it?!
that should be fine.the clear plastic.... it's debateable. 1st it blocks some reflection off
the numbers.
second, from a detailer's perspective, after a wash there will be some
clouding and water marks left on the inside of the plastic that will be
an eye irritant
especially when covering a dark colored plate. i say, leave it off.
clearcoat it?!It would be a bummer if this is verbotten as I spent some good quality time with an exacto blade two inches from the plate to mask off all those letterings...
It looks like it came painted black from the DMV...
#7
11-01-2006, 06:18 PM
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#8
11-01-2006, 06:19 PM
257.225
iffy, but arguable passable
Still has contrast
Don't let the clear plastic obscure anything and thats ok
257.224
Passable
In IL the CLEAR plastic is acceptable, seems like thats the case in MI too. In IL the lack would not fly as we are not allowed to have anythying opaque on or over the plate, in Michigan it seems more like they are saying it needs to be ligible and meet visible standards but modifing is acceptable. At least that is MY interpretation of it (and I'm not a police officer).
You have the code to refer to, imagine beign cited for it, can you defend it? If so then go ahead. If you want even more comfort e-mail a local police chief and ask hypothetically what the case would be assuming you meet the cited requirements.
BTW the Michigan webpage sucks!! In IL I had the info I needed 2 min to find the code I needed, that took 20 min. to get that much vauge info.
(2) A registration plate shall at all times be securely fastened in a horizontal position to the vehicle for which the plate is issued so as to prevent the plate from swinging. The plate shall be attached at a height of not less than 12 inches from the ground, measured from the bottom of the plate, in a place and position which is clearly visible. The plate shall be maintained free from foreign materials that obscure or partially obscure the registration information, and in a clearly legible condition.
(3) A registration plate or the expiration tab on the registration plate shall be of a different color designated by the secretary of state with a marked contrast between the color of the registration plate and the numerals or letters on the plate. The secretary of state may provide a distinctive registration plate as a replacement for a standard plate. To honor a special or historical event, the secretary of state may provide a commemorative plate as a replacement for a standard plate.
(4) A person shall not attach a name plate, insignia, or advertising device to a motor vehicle registration plate in a manner which obscures or partially obscures the registration information.
257.224
(6) The registration plate and the required letters and numerals on the registration plate shall be of sufficient size to be plainly readable from a distance of 100 feet during daylight. The secretary of state may issue a tab or tabs designating the month and year of expiration.
In IL the CLEAR plastic is acceptable, seems like thats the case in MI too. In IL the lack would not fly as we are not allowed to have anythying opaque on or over the plate, in Michigan it seems more like they are saying it needs to be ligible and meet visible standards but modifing is acceptable. At least that is MY interpretation of it (and I'm not a police officer).
You have the code to refer to, imagine beign cited for it, can you defend it? If so then go ahead. If you want even more comfort e-mail a local police chief and ask hypothetically what the case would be assuming you meet the cited requirements.
BTW the Michigan webpage sucks!! In IL I had the info I needed 2 min to find the code I needed, that took 20 min. to get that much vauge info.
#9
11-01-2006, 06:26 PM
257.225
iffy, but arguable passable
Still has contrast
Don't let the clear plastic obscure anything and thats ok
257.224
Passable
In IL the CLEAR plastic is acceptable, seems like thats the case in MI too. In IL the lack would not fly as we are not allowed to have anythying opaque on or over the plate, in Michigan it seems more like they are saying it needs to be ligible and meet visible standards but modifing is acceptable. At least that is MY interpretation of it (and I'm not a police officer).
You have the code to refer to, imagine beign cited for it, can you defend it? If so then go ahead. If you want even more comfort e-mail a local police chief and ask hypothetically what the case would be assuming you meet the cited requirements.
BTW the Michigan webpage sucks!! In IL I had the info I needed 2 min to find the code I needed, that took 20 min. to get that much vauge info.
iffy, but arguable passable
Still has contrast
Don't let the clear plastic obscure anything and thats ok
257.224
Passable
In IL the CLEAR plastic is acceptable, seems like thats the case in MI too. In IL the lack would not fly as we are not allowed to have anythying opaque on or over the plate, in Michigan it seems more like they are saying it needs to be ligible and meet visible standards but modifing is acceptable. At least that is MY interpretation of it (and I'm not a police officer).
You have the code to refer to, imagine beign cited for it, can you defend it? If so then go ahead. If you want even more comfort e-mail a local police chief and ask hypothetically what the case would be assuming you meet the cited requirements.
BTW the Michigan webpage sucks!! In IL I had the info I needed 2 min to find the code I needed, that took 20 min. to get that much vauge info.
My lettering and tag are unaltered...if anything, the black serves a greater contrast to the lettering than the original blue...but like I said...I think it comes down to whether the cop behind me has had a bad day or not because as we all know, any of our modded Minis WILL violate countless codes if they so choose...especially mine
#10
11-01-2006, 06:31 PM
#11
11-01-2006, 06:37 PM
#13
11-01-2006, 08:01 PM
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So to repaint them a different color here would probably draw attention to your vehicle. It's never good to draw our attention to you...
Our vehicle code does allow for a cover over the plate as long the plate isn't obstructed, but it can only cover the registration tabs.
I don't know our laws are similar, but I hope the info helped...
#15
11-02-2006, 06:02 AM
#16
11-02-2006, 07:50 AM
#17
11-02-2006, 08:12 AM
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I'm here, but I'm from California. The vehicle code does not specifically say you can't repaint them to another color, but it would probably be considered in "not maintained" condition.
So to repaint them a different color here would probably draw attention to your vehicle. It's never good to draw our attention to you...
Our vehicle code does allow for a cover over the plate as long the plate isn't obstructed, but it can only cover the registration tabs.
I don't know our laws are similar, but I hope the info helped...
So to repaint them a different color here would probably draw attention to your vehicle. It's never good to draw our attention to you...
Our vehicle code does allow for a cover over the plate as long the plate isn't obstructed, but it can only cover the registration tabs.
I don't know our laws are similar, but I hope the info helped...
"4464. No person shall display upon a vehicle a license plate altered from its original markings."
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d03/vc4464.htm
I just went to the DMV site and searched on 'altered license plate' and the vehicle code came right up - MSFITOY you might want to try searching for a few similar type terms on your state's DMV site and see what you find. You can also probably call or email them with the question and they can probably tell you what is legal or not.
#18
11-02-2006, 08:26 AM
Sid,
you should not have a problem, but between the window tint, the plate paint, the loud exhaust, you could get pulled over and questioned if the cop felt he had too. but as far as i know it's not something you could get a ticket for. if you need Greg's number let me know.
also your trim part is $36.00 each
you should not have a problem, but between the window tint, the plate paint, the loud exhaust, you could get pulled over and questioned if the cop felt he had too. but as far as i know it's not something you could get a ticket for. if you need Greg's number let me know.
also your trim part is $36.00 each
__________________
#19
11-02-2006, 08:34 AM
Sid,
you should not have a problem, but between the window tint, the plate paint, the loud exhaust, you could get pulled over and questioned if the cop felt he had too. but as far as i know it's not something you could get a ticket for. if you need Greg's number let me know.
also your trim part is $36.00 each
you should not have a problem, but between the window tint, the plate paint, the loud exhaust, you could get pulled over and questioned if the cop felt he had too. but as far as i know it's not something you could get a ticket for. if you need Greg's number let me know.
also your trim part is $36.00 each
BTW...thanks for checking the trim...the insurance company came through with the pieces
I could get another tab since I have so many copies of MSFITOY plates laying around and keep it in the boot...just in case
#20
11-02-2006, 08:37 AM
I can see the court data now...
"The clerk is calling Misfitoy"......
"The charge is for ain illegal licence plate?"
"But judge, I read all the state law. It says Legible, and it's that, I haven't covered any of the reg information, nor is there anything in the law that says you can't have a clear covering!"
Judge: "Wait a second here. You're a citizen, right?"
"yes......"
Judge: "Well, you're the very first one I've ever met that said they'd actually read the law....... Officer?"
Officer bust-a-lot: "Yes judge?"
Judge: "Have YOU read this section of the vehicel code?"
Officer bust a lot (looking nervouse)... "Uh, what section was that? Oh yeah.... Um, no, I haven't read that it a while... But it seemed that"
Judge (cutting off the officer): "Are you aware that you cited the ONLY PERSON that I've ever found to actually be interrested legal compliance?"
Officer "But it just seemed like it would be wrong....."
Judge: "And with the way we're treating him, it will be a wonder if he EVER shows respect for the law ever again!"
Officer: "Sorry judge..."
Judge: "well Mr Mini driver, case dismissed!"
************************************
or something like that.....
Matt
"The charge is for ain illegal licence plate?"
"But judge, I read all the state law. It says Legible, and it's that, I haven't covered any of the reg information, nor is there anything in the law that says you can't have a clear covering!"
Judge: "Wait a second here. You're a citizen, right?"
"yes......"
Judge: "Well, you're the very first one I've ever met that said they'd actually read the law....... Officer?"
Officer bust-a-lot: "Yes judge?"
Judge: "Have YOU read this section of the vehicel code?"
Officer bust a lot (looking nervouse)... "Uh, what section was that? Oh yeah.... Um, no, I haven't read that it a while... But it seemed that"
Judge (cutting off the officer): "Are you aware that you cited the ONLY PERSON that I've ever found to actually be interrested legal compliance?"
Officer "But it just seemed like it would be wrong....."
Judge: "And with the way we're treating him, it will be a wonder if he EVER shows respect for the law ever again!"
Officer: "Sorry judge..."
Judge: "well Mr Mini driver, case dismissed!"
************************************
or something like that.....
Matt
#21
11-02-2006, 08:41 AM
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#22
11-02-2006, 08:42 AM
"The clerk is calling Misfitoy"......
"The charge is for ain illegal licence plate?"
"But judge, I read all the state law. It says Legible, and it's that, I haven't covered any of the reg information, nor is there anything in the law that says you can't have a clear covering!"
Judge: "Wait a second here. You're a citizen, right?"
"yes......"
Judge: "Well, you're the very first one I've ever met that said they'd actually read the law....... Officer?"
Officer bust-a-lot: "Yes judge?"
Judge: "Have YOU read this section of the vehicel code?"
Officer bust a lot (looking nervouse)... "Uh, what section was that? Oh yeah.... Um, no, I haven't read that it a while... But it seemed that"
Judge (cutting off the officer): "Are you aware that you cited the ONLY PERSON that I've ever found to actually be interrested legal compliance?"
Officer "But it just seemed like it would be wrong....."
Judge: "And with the way we're treating him, it will be a wonder if he EVER shows respect for the law ever again!"
Officer: "Sorry judge..."
Judge: "well Mr Mini driver, case dismissed!"
************************************
or something like that.....
Matt
"The charge is for ain illegal licence plate?"
"But judge, I read all the state law. It says Legible, and it's that, I haven't covered any of the reg information, nor is there anything in the law that says you can't have a clear covering!"
Judge: "Wait a second here. You're a citizen, right?"
"yes......"
Judge: "Well, you're the very first one I've ever met that said they'd actually read the law....... Officer?"
Officer bust-a-lot: "Yes judge?"
Judge: "Have YOU read this section of the vehicel code?"
Officer bust a lot (looking nervouse)... "Uh, what section was that? Oh yeah.... Um, no, I haven't read that it a while... But it seemed that"
Judge (cutting off the officer): "Are you aware that you cited the ONLY PERSON that I've ever found to actually be interrested legal compliance?"
Officer "But it just seemed like it would be wrong....."
Judge: "And with the way we're treating him, it will be a wonder if he EVER shows respect for the law ever again!"
Officer: "Sorry judge..."
Judge: "well Mr Mini driver, case dismissed!"
************************************
or something like that.....
Matt
Let's hope I never have to go through that...better find the Michigan DMV codes and study up...
#24
11-02-2006, 09:06 AM
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Got to this point but all the links are dead:impatient
http://www.dmv.org/mi-michigan/autom...hicle-code.php
http://www.dmv.org/mi-michigan/autom...hicle-code.php
Anyway, I found your real gov site and I'm sorry to say there is a code against altering your lic plate. Of course you may never be bugged about it, but for the record it is in on the books as a no-no:
3600
Alter/ Forge/ Falsify Vehicle Document or License Plate
Alter title certificate, registrations, plate or temporary permit. (Non-moving violation) Effective 10/01/2001 only felony convictions will
be considered as priors: Offense Codes: 1140, 1400, 1405, 1410, 1420, 1430, 1440, 1450, 1500,
1600, 1605, 1706, 1707, 1708, 1709, 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1807, 1808, 3235, 3245, 3320 and 3600.
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/Of...de_73877_7.pdf
#25
11-02-2006, 09:29 AM
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I have found that it really depends on the cop. I bought a car a few years ago that had red license plate lights. One night I was driving around Provo, Utah and all of a sudden I was pulled over. I hadn't done anything wrong, but it turns out the officer didn't like my license plate lights so he gave me a fix-it ticket. It took me 5 minutes to change the bulbs and a trip down to the court and it was fixed, but it was a minor nuisance especially considering that a lot of people don't even have working license plate lights.