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Minnesota License Plate Display Law — 2025 Guide

Q: What is the Minnesota license plate format?

Minnesota uses the format 123 ABC for standard passenger plates.

Front + Rear Required

Quick Answer

Minnesota requires both front and rear license plates.

The Law at a Glance

Statute

Minnesota Statutes §169.79

Mounting

Front + Rear Required

Plate Format

123 ABC

Penalty

Fines vary by jurisdiction.

Plate Design

'10,000 Lakes' design.

Recent Changes

Minnesota has the fourth-oldest plate design in use (since 1978). Minnesota uses unique motorcycle plate size of 4-3/16 × 7-3/16 inches. Registration stickers are called 'tabs.' Minnesota mandates 'Whiskey Plates' for DUI offenders.

State-Specific Notes

Minnesota is a strict two-plate state.

Plate Design Details

First Issued

June 2009

Plate Style

Screened serial; reflective sheeting

Full Design

Black on reflective white with lake scene graphic — 'Explore Minnesota.com / 10,000 Lakes'

Current Format

123-ABC and ABC-123

Letter Exclusions

I, O, and Q are not used.

Historical Plates Still Valid

Earlier 2009–2017 'Explore Minnesota.com' plates (123-ABC) being replaced on a seven-year rolling basis.

Notable Facts

Minnesota has the fourth-oldest plate design in continuous use, in production since 1978. Minnesota uses unique motorcycle plate size of 4-3/16 × 7-3/16 inches — different from the U.S. 4×7 motorcycle standard. Registration stickers are called 'tabs.' Minnesota mandates 'Whiskey Plates' for DUI offenders.

How atroq Frames Stay Compliant in Minnesota

atroq frames in Minnesota 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 Minnesota's standard 6 × 12 inch passenger plates. Since Minnesota requires both plates, customers typically order frames in pairs.

Design your Minnesota-compliant frame

Premium custom license plate frames built for Minnesota's display requirements. MOQ 500. From $1.30 / frame.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a front license plate required in Minnesota?

Yes. Minnesota requires both a front and rear license plate on all registered passenger vehicles. Minnesota requires both front and rear license plates.

What is the Minnesota license plate format?

Minnesota uses the format 123 ABC for standard passenger plates.

How often does Minnesota change its plate design?

Minnesota updates plate designs periodically. Minnesota has the fourth-oldest plate design in use (since 1978). Minnesota uses unique motorcycle plate size of 4-3/16 × 7-3/16 inches. Registration stickers are called 'tabs.' Minnesota mandates 'Whiskey Plates' for DUI offenders.

Are decorative license plate frames legal in Minnesota?

Yes. Decorative frames are legal in Minnesota as long as they do not obscure the alphanumeric serial, the state name, or any registration sticker. atroq frames are designed to comply with Minnesota display requirements.

What size are Minnesota license plates?

Minnesota 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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