NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) – New rules go into effect next month to help city officials crack down on ghost cars, which have fake or obscured license plates to avoid enforcement.
The new city rules, which apply to standing and parked vehicles, will take effect on April 16 and expand what is considered an obstructed plate, Department of Transportation officials said.
Even dirt or rust can mean a plate is distorted, and parking with an obstructed plate will result in a $50 fine, officials said.
Out-of-state drivers must have a valid, unobstructed license plate too, but only New York drivers need a plate on the front and back of the car mounted at a certain height.
The rules were proposed in January and workshopped at a public hearing in February. They align with existing New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law updated in 2024 to crack down on obstructed plates, DOT officials said.
“By expanding the definition of what is illegal, we will be able to hold reckless drivers accountable and create safer and more accessible streets for all,” said DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.
Just last week, officials impounded 66 cars and arrested 25 people during license plate enforcement operations on the RFK, Third Avenue and Willis Avenue bridges, according to the NYPD.
- Cameras must be able to capture and read license plates, meaning they cannot be distorted by coatings or materials that distort or reflect light.
- License plates must be securely fastened and readable without plastic or glass covers.
- New York plates must be between 12-48 inches from the ground.
- Fake or altered plates are prohibited.
- Plates concealed by the vehicle or its contents are prohibited.
- All vehicle covers that cover license plates, registration stickers, VIN and other information are prohibited. Covers that restrict access to an illegally parked vehicle are also prohibited.
CREDIT: PIX 11, Emily Rahhal
