Arkansas License Plate Display Law — 2025 Guide
Rear Plate Only
Quick Answer
Arkansas requires only a rear license plate.
The Law at a Glance
Statute
Arkansas Code §27-14-716
Mounting
Rear Plate Only
Plate Format
ABCD 12 (four letters + two digits)
Penalty
Fines vary by jurisdiction.
Plate Design
'The Natural State' design with diamond imagery.
Recent Changes
Arkansas uses a four-letter/two-number format unique to a small group of states.
State-Specific Notes
Arkansas is a single-plate (rear) state.
Plate Design Details
First Issued
2006
Plate Style
Embossed serial; reflective sheeting
Full Design
Black on a diamond background, representing Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro — 'The Natural State'
Current Format
ABC 12D (2021–present); 123 ABC (2006–2021)
Letter Exclusions
U and V were skipped until 2015. O and Q remain skipped.
Historical Plates Still Valid
Format change in 2021 to four-letter/two-digit. Earlier 123 ABC plates remain valid.
Notable Facts
Arkansas's diamond-pattern background references Crater of Diamonds State Park — the only public diamond mine in the U.S. where visitors can keep what they find.
How atroq Frames Stay Compliant in Arkansas
atroq frames in Arkansas are engineered to comply with all display requirements. The frame's recessed sticker windows keep renewal stickers visible. The frame's thickness does not obscure the alphanumeric serial, state name, or the issuing jurisdiction. atroq's universal mounting fits Arkansas's standard 6 × 12 inch passenger plates. Since Arkansas requires only a rear plate, customers typically order single frames.
Design your Arkansas-compliant frame
Premium custom license plate frames built for Arkansas's display requirements. MOQ 500. From $1.30 / frame.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Arkansas require a front license plate?
No. Arkansas is a rear-plate-only jurisdiction. Only a rear plate is required on passenger vehicles, regardless of whether the vehicle has a factory front bracket.
What is the Arkansas license plate format?
Arkansas uses the format ABCD 12 (four letters + two digits) for standard passenger plates.
How often does Arkansas change its plate design?
Arkansas updates plate designs periodically. Arkansas uses a four-letter/two-number format unique to a small group of states.
Are decorative license plate frames legal in Arkansas?
Yes. Decorative frames are legal in Arkansas as long as they do not obscure the alphanumeric serial, the state name, or any registration sticker. atroq frames are designed to comply with Arkansas display requirements.
What size are Arkansas license plates?
Arkansas issues plates in the U.S. standard 6 × 12 inches (150 × 300 mm) for passenger vehicles, matching the 1956 SAE / Automobile Manufacturers Association dimensional agreement.
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