Are Road Safety Cameras Speed Cameras?

Across the world, “road safety cameras” have become a common feature on highways, intersections, and school zones. Many drivers naturally assume these devices are simply speed cameras. While speed enforcement is often a part of their function, road safety cameras can perform a much wider range of traffic monitoring and enforcement duties. Understanding the distinction between the two helps drivers know how they work, what laws they enforce, and why cities deploy them. 

License Plate Hunter Cameras: How They Work & Where They're Used

License plate hunter cameras—formally known as Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR)—are specialized surveillance systems designed to automatically capture and analyze license plate data in real time. As discussed in PhotoEnforced's original article, these devices are often mistaken for speed or red-light cameras, but their primary function is vehicle identification rather than issuing direct traffic tickets.

In the last decade, ALPR systems have become a common sight on highways, at toll booths, in parking garages, and even in residential neighborhoods. Their rapid adoption is driven by their ability to process thousands of license plates per hour, integrate with vast databases, and provide immediate alerts to authorities when a match is found.

How License Plate Hunter Cameras Work

The core technology behind ALPR involves a high-resolution camera paired with optical character recognition (OCR) software. This combination allows the system to “read” license plates, regardless of whether the vehicle is moving at high speed or parked. Infrared imaging is frequently used so the system can function in darkness, rain, fog, or glare conditions.

When a plate is captured, the system typically records:

• The license plate number
• Date and time of capture
• GPS coordinates or fixed location data
• A photo of the vehicle (often showing make, model, and color)

The recorded information is then compared against one or more databases. These may include stolen vehicle lists, active warrant notices, wanted persons alerts, unpaid toll violations, or other watchlists. Matches can trigger real-time alerts to patrol officers or dispatch centers.

Key Applications of ALPR Technology

1. Law Enforcement: Police departments use ALPR to detect stolen vehicles, track suspects, locate missing persons, and solve crimes. A single patrol car equipped with ALPR can scan thousands of plates per shift.
2. Toll Collection: Many toll roads have eliminated cash booths entirely, relying on ALPR to identify vehicles and bill the registered owner.
3. Parking Management: In garages and municipal lots, ALPR automates entry and exit logging, enforces permit requirements, and streamlines payment verification.
4. Private Security: Gated communities, corporate campuses, and logistics hubs use ALPR to monitor and log all vehicle entries and exits, enhancing security without adding guard staff.
5. Traffic Analysis: Transportation departments use ALPR data to monitor congestion patterns, calculate travel times, and plan roadway improvements.

Advantages of License Plate Hunter Cameras

ALPR systems deliver benefits that manual observation cannot match:

• Continuous operation, day and night
• Rapid, automated identification without human intervention
• Integration with national, state, and local databases
• Long-term storage for investigative purposes
• Ability to process large traffic volumes efficiently

These strengths have made ALPR a cornerstone of modern traffic enforcement and vehicle monitoring efforts.

Privacy & Legal Concerns

Despite their utility, license plate hunter cameras have drawn criticism from privacy advocates and civil liberties organizations. The core concern is that ALPR allows mass surveillance of ordinary drivers without their knowledge or consent. Specific issues include:

• Data Retention: In some jurisdictions, plate scans are deleted after 48 hours; in others, they may be kept for years.
• Access Control: Questions remain over who can access the data and whether it is shared with private companies or other government agencies.
• Potential for Abuse: Without strict oversight, ALPR data could be misused for tracking individuals for non-law-enforcement purposes.

Some U.S. states have passed laws regulating ALPR usage, retention, and sharing, while others have yet to address the technology in legislation. Court rulings have also begun to shape the legal boundaries, with some judges questioning whether prolonged, warrantless tracking violates the Fourth Amendment.

Where You’ll Find ALPR Cameras

License plate hunter cameras can be either fixed or mobile. Common installation points include:

• Highway overpasses
• Traffic signals and busy intersections
• Toll plazas and express lanes
• School safety zones
• Police patrol vehicles
• Parking garage entrances and exits
• Industrial or residential gated entries

In mobile form, ALPR cameras mounted on police cruisers can scan vehicles parked along streets or traveling nearby in real time.

Case Study: Neighborhood ALPR Networks

Some private companies have expanded ALPR into residential security. For example, Flock Safety operates networks in thousands of U.S. neighborhoods, capturing billions of license plate scans each month. These systems are marketed as tools to reduce crime by sharing data directly with local police departments when a match occurs. Supporters cite significant reductions in burglary and theft rates, while critics raise concerns about continuous tracking and the absence of clear opt-out options for residents.

Potential Risks and Misidentification

ALPR accuracy is generally high, but it is not flawless. Misreads can occur due to dirty or damaged plates, unusual fonts, lighting conditions, or obstructions. In rare cases, such errors have led to mistaken stops or arrests, underscoring the need for human verification before taking enforcement action.

Future Trends in License Plate Recognition

ALPR technology continues to evolve rapidly. Artificial intelligence now enables systems to identify vehicles by make, model, and color in addition to plate numbers. Predictive analytics may soon allow law enforcement to anticipate vehicle movements based on past patterns. Smaller, cheaper units are making it possible to install ALPR in more locations, including portable units for temporary deployments.

As cities adopt “smart traffic” infrastructure, ALPR data is likely to be integrated with other sources such as traffic sensors, GPS feeds, and even facial recognition systems. These integrations promise greater efficiency in traffic management and public safety but will also raise deeper privacy debates.

Balancing Security and Privacy

License plate hunter cameras can make communities safer, speed up investigations, and modernize transportation systems. However, unchecked deployment risks eroding public trust. Policymakers, law enforcement, and private operators must balance the legitimate benefits of ALPR with strong safeguards to prevent misuse.

Transparency measures such as public notice of camera locations, limits on data retention, and independent audits can help ensure that the technology serves the public good without compromising individual freedoms.

Conclusion

License plate hunter cameras have transformed vehicle monitoring from a manual process into a sophisticated, automated system capable of scanning and analyzing vast amounts of data instantly. Whether used by police, toll agencies, parking operators, or private security, these systems are now a permanent feature of modern transportation networks. The challenge moving forward will be ensuring that their use aligns with both public safety needs and the fundamental right to privacy.

What Red Light Cameras Look Like in the UK

Red light cameras are a key part of the UK's road safety system, used to monitor and deter drivers from running red lights at intersections. These devices play a crucial role in reducing accidents, especially in high-traffic urban areas. In this article, we’ll explain what red light cameras in the UK look like, how they work, where they’re typically installed—and how many there are.  What do red light cameras look like in the United States?

📊 How Many Red Light Cameras Are in the UK?

As of the latest data, the UK operates approximately 811 red light cameras. These cameras are strategically positioned at intersections with a history of accidents or a high rate of traffic violations.

In total, the UK has more than 7,000 traffic enforcement cameras, including speed and red light monitoring systems. Major cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow have the highest concentrations of these cameras to promote safer driving.  Here is a map of red light cameras and speed cameras in the UK.  

🔍 How to Identify a Red Light Camera in the UK

Red light cameras in the UK have a distinctive appearance:

• Bright Yellow Housing: Designed to be highly visible to drivers.

• Box-Shaped Design: Rectangular or square form mounted on grey poles.

• Intersection-Facing Lenses: Cameras face into the junction to photograph vehicles running red lights.

• Multiple Windows or Lenses: Some cameras include two lenses for wide-angle and close-up shots.

• Infrared Capabilities: Used for nighttime operation without visible flash.

📷 Common Types of Red Light Cameras

1. Gatso Cameras

   • Yellow, bulky boxes mounted on poles.

   • Use radar and road sensors.

   • Can enforce both speed and red light violations.

   • 

2. Truvelo Cameras

   • Sleeker, forward-facing cameras.

   • Often use infrared technology.

   • Do not flash visibly at night.

   • 

3. VECTOR Cameras (ANPR)

• Also used for Automatic Number Plate Recognition.

• Mounted on poles or traffic light arms.

• Can enforce red light, speed, and other traffic violations simultaneously.

📍 Where Are Red Light Cameras Installed?

Red light cameras are typically located:

• At busy intersections with frequent accidents or violations.

• In urban centers and city outskirts.

• Near schools, hospitals, and high pedestrian traffic zones.

• Along major A-roads and dual carriageways.

These cameras are almost always accompanied by signage warning drivers of camera enforcement, as required by law.

⚙️ How Do Red Light Cameras Work?

Red light cameras use a combination of:

• Inductive loops in the road surface to detect vehicles crossing the stop line after the light turns red.

• Radar or sensors to detect motion and trigger the camera.

• High-resolution imaging to capture clear photos of the vehicle and license plate.

When a violation is detected, a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) is sent to the vehicle’s registered keeper. This usually includes a fine and potential penalty points on the driver’s license.

✅ Final Tip for Drivers

Even if you don’t see a camera, running a red light is never worth the risk. With over 800 red light cameras and thousands more for speed and other violations, enforcement in the UK is widespread and increasingly automated.  

Drive safely, and always assume an intersection could be monitored.

Obstructing Your License Plate Is Illegal: What You Need to Kno

When it comes to driving legally on public roads, there are many rules that motorists must follow—but one often overlooked regulation is the requirement for a clear and unobstructed license plate. Whether you’re driving a car, truck, or motorcycle, obstructing your license plate is illegal in most states, and it can result in fines, penalties, or even more serious consequences.

In this article, we’ll break down why license plate obstruction is a big deal, the common ways people accidentally (or intentionally) block their plates, and how to stay compliant with the law.

Why Is Obstructing a License Plate Illegal?

Your license plate serves a critical function: it identifies your vehicle. Law enforcement uses it to track stolen cars, issue traffic citations, and manage road safety. That’s why every state requires plates to be:

• Clearly visible

• Easily readable

• Free from obstruction or cover

Obstructing your plate can be seen as an attempt to evade detection, tolls, or red-light cameras. As such, even minor infractions are taken seriously by law enforcement.

Common Ways People Obstruct License Plates

You might be breaking the law without even realizing it. Here are some common plate obstructions that can get you into trouble:

1. Plate Covers and Frames

Tinted, smoked, or even clear plastic covers can distort the plate under certain lighting. Some decorative frames also cover key portions of the plate number or state name.

2. License Plate Flippers and Reflective Coatings

Some drivers try to avoid tolls or speed cameras using devices that flip the plate or reflect light to make it unreadable. These are illegal in all 50 states and can lead to hefty fines.

3. Dirt, Snow, or Debris

Even unintentionally covering your plate with mud, snow, or bumper stickers is considered an obstruction in many jurisdictions. It’s your responsibility to keep the plate clean and visible at all times.

4. Obstructed by Bike Racks or Tow Equipment

Make sure bike racks, trailers, or tow hitches don’t block the view of your license plate. If they do, you may be required to relocate the plate or use a supplemental mount.

Penalties for Obstructing Your License Plate

Penalties vary by state but can include:

• Fines ranging from $50 to $500

• Points on your driving record

• Vehicle inspection failures

• Possible court appearances for repeat offenses

In some cases, intentional obstruction can be charged as a misdemeanor, especially if it’s linked to avoiding tolls or committing other violations.

How to Stay Legal

Here’s how to ensure your plate is always in compliance:

• Avoid any aftermarket plate covers or tints

• Use only legal, non-obstructive plate frames

• Regularly clean your plate of dirt or snow

• Make sure no objects or accessories block the view

• Replace any damaged or faded plates through your DMV

Final Thoughts

It might seem like a small thing, but obstructing your license plate—even partially—is against the law and can lead to real consequences. It’s a simple fix that could save you money, hassle, and legal trouble down the road.

Stay visible, stay legal, and drive smart.

Facts a Police Officer Must Verify Before Issuing a Ticket

When a police officer pulls over a vehicle, it's not as simple as writing a ticket right away. There are specific facts and legal steps officers must verify before issuing a citation. Understanding these requirements can help drivers protect their rights and avoid unjust penalties.

In this article, we’ll break down the key facts a police officer must confirm before issuing a ticket, whether it’s for speeding, running a red light, illegal parking, or another traffic violation.

1. Probable Cause for the Stop

Before any ticket can be written, a police officer must have probable cause to initiate a traffic stop. This means the officer must observe a clear violation of traffic law or have a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.

Examples of Probable Cause:

• Speeding over the posted limit (measured with radar or LIDAR)

• Failing to stop at a stop sign or red light

• Weaving between lanes (possible DUI)

• Expired registration or visible vehicle defects (e.g., broken tail light)

2. Driver Identification

Once the vehicle is stopped, the officer must verify the identity of the driver. This includes checking:

• Valid driver’s license

• Vehicle registration

• Proof of insurance

If any of these documents are missing, expired, or fraudulent, the officer may issue additional citations beyond the initial reason for the stop.

3. Accurate Speed Measurement (for Speeding Tickets)

For speeding tickets, officers must have clear and accurate evidence of the driver’s speed. This is typically done using:

• Radar guns

• LIDAR systems

• Pacing (using the officer’s own speedometer while following the car)

• Speed cameras (in jurisdictions where they are legal)

Officers are also required to be trained and certified to use speed detection equipment. Malfunctioning or uncalibrated devices can lead to a ticket being dismissed in court.

4. Clear Signage and Road Markings

Officers must ensure that traffic laws were violated in a clearly marked zone. For example:

• Speed limits must be posted at regular intervals

• No-parking zones must be clearly signed

• Stop signs and traffic signals must be visible and unobstructed

If signage is missing, obscured, or incorrect, a driver may be able to contest the ticket successfully.

5. Legal Authority and Jurisdiction

A police officer must have the jurisdiction and authority to enforce traffic laws in the location where the violation occurred. For example, a campus security officer cannot issue state traffic tickets unless granted specific authority.

6. Documented Evidence

In many cases, especially when drivers contest tickets, courts require that officers provide:

• Written notes or dashcam/bodycam footage

• Accurate time and location of the offense

• Description of the vehicle and driver’s behavior

This documentation helps ensure tickets are based on facts, not assumptions.

7. Driver’s Right to Explanation

Though not a requirement for issuing a ticket, police are expected to allow the driver a chance to explain. This can sometimes lead to a warning instead of a citation, especially for minor infractions.

Final Thoughts

Traffic tickets are legal documents, and police officers must verify multiple facts before they can be lawfully issued. If any of these elements are missing, the ticket may be invalid or subject to dismissal in court.

Understanding your rights and the legal obligations of law enforcement can help you make informed decisions during traffic stops. If you believe a ticket was issued without proper verification, consider consulting a traffic attorney or contesting it in court.

How License Plate Reader Cameras Tracked Down the Trump Golf Course Shooter's Getaway Car

License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras have once again proven their effectiveness in law enforcement, this time playing a crucial role in tracking down the getaway car of a shooter at a Trump golf course. These cameras, strategically positioned throughout cities and along highways, offer law enforcement agencies a powerful tool to quickly identify and locate vehicles involved in criminal activities. Today’s incident at the golf course exemplifies how this technology can aid in solving crimes swiftly and efficiently.

The incident occurred at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. On September 15, 2024, law enforcement utilized Florida license plate reader (LPR) cameras to track the getaway vehicle of a suspect involved in an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. After the suspect fled the scene in a black Nissan, the vehicle was identified, tracked, and stopped by authorities on Interstate 95 in Martin County, thanks to the LPR cameras and witness reports​

Understanding Parking Ticket Photo Enforcement: What You Need to Know

Parking ticket photo enforcement has become an increasingly common practice in many cities across the United States and beyond. This automated system captures images of vehicles parked in violation of local regulations, making it easier for municipalities to enforce parking laws without the need for a parking attendant. In this article, we will delve into how parking ticket photo enforcement works, its benefits and drawbacks, and what drivers should know to avoid getting ticketed.

How Parking Ticket Photo Enforcement Works

Parking ticket photo enforcement systems use automated cameras and technology to monitor parking violations. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

1. Camera Installation: Cities install cameras in high-traffic areas, near parking meters, or at locations with a history of parking violations. These cameras are often equipped with license plate recognition software.

2. Monitoring: The cameras continuously monitor parked vehicles. When a vehicle is detected in a restricted area or when time expires at a metered space, the camera captures images of the vehicle, including its license plate.

3. Ticket Generation: Once a violation is detected, the system automatically generates a parking ticket. The images captured by the camera, along with relevant details such as the date, time, and location of the violation, are typically included in the ticket.

4. Notification: The vehicle owner is then notified of the parking ticket, usually by mail or through an online portal. This notification includes instructions for payment or contesting the ticket.

Benefits of Parking Ticket Photo Enforcement

Parking ticket photo enforcement systems offer several advantages for cities and drivers alike:

• Increased Efficiency: Automated systems allow cities to enforce parking regulations without the need for parking attendants. This can free up resources for other important city functions.

• Reduced Human Error: Automated ticketing reduces the chances of human error that can occur with manual enforcement. This can lead to more accurate ticketing.

• Consistency: Automated systems provide consistent enforcement of parking regulations. This helps deter violations and promotes compliance among drivers.

• Improved Revenue: For municipalities, photo enforcement can lead to increased revenue from parking fines, which can be reinvested into local services and infrastructure.

Drawbacks of Parking Ticket Photo Enforcement

Despite the benefits, parking ticket photo enforcement is not without its drawbacks:

• Public Outcry: Many drivers feel that automated ticketing systems can be unfair and may lead to excessive ticketing. This has sparked debates about the ethics of photo enforcement.

• Lack of Human Judgment: Automated systems cannot take into account the unique circumstances of each violation, which may lead to tickets being issued for legitimate situations, such as emergency stops or vehicle malfunctions.

• Privacy Concerns: The use of cameras to monitor parking can raise privacy issues for some individuals, leading to concerns about surveillance and data security.

Tips to Avoid Parking Tickets from Photo Enforcement

To minimize the risk of receiving a parking ticket through photo enforcement, consider the following tips:

1. Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with local parking regulations, including time limits, restricted zones, and metered parking requirements.

2. Pay Attention to Signage: Always check for parking signs that indicate restrictions in the area. These signs will inform you of the rules in place and help you avoid violations.

3. Set Timers: If you park at a metered space, consider setting a timer on your phone to remind you when it’s time to move your vehicle or add time to the meter.

4. Use Alternative Transportation: When possible, consider using public transportation, carpooling, or ride-sharing services to avoid parking challenges altogether.

What to Do If You Receive a Parking Ticket

If you receive a parking ticket from a photo enforcement system, here are the steps you can take:

1. Review the Ticket: Check the ticket for accuracy. Ensure that the details, such as the date, time, and location of the violation, are correct.

2. Examine the Evidence: Most tickets issued through photo enforcement will include images of your vehicle. Review these images to confirm whether the violation occurred.

3. Consider Contesting the Ticket: If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you can contest it. Follow your city’s procedure for appealing a parking ticket, which may involve providing evidence or attending a hearing.

4. Pay the Fine: If you decide not to contest the ticket, make sure to pay the fine promptly to avoid late fees or additional penalties.

Conclusion

Parking ticket photo enforcement is an effective tool for municipalities to manage parking regulations and enhance compliance. While it offers benefits like increased efficiency and reduced human error, it also raises questions about fairness and privacy. By understanding how these systems work and taking proactive steps, drivers can minimize their chances of receiving a parking ticket and navigate city streets more confidently. Always stay informed about local parking regulations and pay attention to signage to ensure a hassle-free parking experience.

Cities Trying To Use Photo Ticketing For Parking

Drivers be warned: In the perpetual cat-and-mouse war between parking enforcement and motorists trying to park without getting a ticket in this city, the cat just got a powerful new weapon. The city of Newton, a suburb of Boston, is installing video cameras that can detect when a car has been parked in a metered spot too long. According to a story in The Boston Globe, the devices alert parking enforcement officers if a ticket needs to be written.

Automatic license plate recognition — a kind of RoboCop of the parking world that uses a panoramic video camera, laptop computer, and sophisticated software — detects cars that have been parked too long and sounds an alert to write a ticket.

The city bought three systems for $50,000 and plans to install them in parking enforcement vehicles this month. Officials believe the technology could double the number of parking tickets the city writes each year and sharply increase the $1.8 million in annual parking fees it collects.  

Related posts:
Photo Enforced Parking Tickets Are Coming
Parking Ticket for Street Sweeping

Testing Illegal License Plate Covers: Road Safety and Compliance

In recent years, the use of illegal license plate covers has become a growing concern for law enforcement and road safety advocates. These covers, often designed to obscure or alter the visibility of license plates, can hinder the ability of law enforcement officers to identify vehicles quickly and accurately. This issue underscores the importance of testing and regulating these covers to ensure compliance with traffic laws and enhance public safety.

The Problem with Illegal License Plate Covers

Avoiding Tolls with Fake License Plates: New York Police Crack Down on "Ghost Cars"

In a bid to tackle toll evasion and ensure road safety, New York authorities have intensified efforts to curb the use of altered or forged license plates on vehicles, also known as "ghost cars." This recent crackdown targeted offenders at the Battery Tunnel on the Brooklyn side, a crucial entrance and exit point between Manhattan and Brooklyn. 

Task Force Targets Fake License Plates & Toll Evasion in NY State

New York State is intensifying efforts to crack down on drivers using fake or altered license plates to evade tolls, red light cameras, and law enforcement. Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams recently announced the establishment of a specialized task force aimed at apprehending individuals operating "ghost vehicles" equipped with fraudulent plates.

Boulder's Photo Enforced Parking Program

The city of Boulder in Colorado had a Photo Enforced Parking Program in place. However, I may not have access to the most recent updates or changes to the program. It's important to consult the official website of the City of Boulder or contact the local authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the Photo Enforced Parking Program in Boulder.

In general, a photo enforced parking program typically involves the use of automated cameras to monitor parking violations in specific areas. Here are some key points about photo enforced parking programs:

Automated Enforcement: Photo enforced parking programs use cameras to capture images of vehicles parked in violation of parking regulations. These cameras are typically equipped with optical character recognition (OCR) technology to read license plate numbers.

Violation Detection: The cameras monitor designated parking zones and can detect violations such as parking in no-parking zones, exceeding time limits, or parking in restricted areas. When a violation is detected, the camera captures images or videos as evidence.

Ticketing and Enforcement: Once a violation is recorded, the vehicle owner is typically issued a parking ticket or a citation. The ticket may be sent through the mail, or in some cases, it may be placed on the vehicle's windshield. The ticket usually includes information on how to pay the fine or contest the violation.

Accuracy and Review Process: Photo enforced parking systems strive for accuracy in identifying violations, but errors can occur. Therefore, there is often a review process in place where vehicle owners can contest the ticket if they believe it was issued incorrectly. This may involve submitting evidence or appearing in court to dispute the violation.

Benefits and Challenges: Photo enforced parking programs are often implemented to improve parking compliance, increase revenue, and free up parking spaces. They can help enforce parking regulations consistently and efficiently. However, such programs may face criticism or legal challenges related to privacy concerns, accuracy of the technology, or the potential for overzealous enforcement.

To obtain accurate and up-to-date information about Boulder's Photo Enforced Parking Program, I recommend visiting the official website of the City of Boulder or contacting the local authorities responsible for parking enforcement in Boulder. They will provide the most relevant details, including any changes or updates to the program since my knowledge cutoff.

Previous update Nov 8, 2010:

Boulder, Colorado's new photo-enforced parking program captures images of vehicles, and notes the exact time and place each image was recorded.  The city is using a technology called AutoVu made by a company Genetec based in Montreal, Canada.  The device is a vehicle-mounted camera that can recognize license plates as a parking officer is driving by without stopping. An integrated computer system compares the plates to a database of parking violations and can pick out vehicles that have been parked too long in pay-to-park or neighborhood parking zones. Boulder City officials plan to use the cameras to for criminal investigations as well. Boulder purchased the camera for $46,000.

Map of Rochester, New York Red Light Cameras Removed

Map of red light cameras removed in Rochester, NY

Rochester, New York, has removed a red-light camera program. The program aims to improve traffic safety by deterring red-light violations and reducing the number of accidents at intersections. Up to 50 intersections in Rochester, New York have been turned off.

Under the program, cameras were installed at selected intersections throughout the city. These cameras were capable of capturing images and videos of vehicles that run red lights. When a violation occurs, the recorded evidence is reviewed by law enforcement officials to determine if a citation should be issued.

 

4 Things To Do If Your License Plates Are Stolen

The figures below represent the number of Chicago red light and speed camera tickets dismissed each year based on a person proving their license plate or vehicle was stolen.

If your license plates are stolen, here are some things we learned that you should do

1. Immediately call the police and file a report on the theft. Do not drive your car until you’ve reported the license plate theft to law enforcement. Oftentimes, police departments will not take reports of theft over the phone, so you will likely need to go in-person to a precinct or police department location, or have an officer come to you. This step is crucial in ensuring you’re not responsible for any future violations or crimes tied to your stolen license plate. Make sure to receive a copy of the report.
2. Check that your stolen license plate has been added to the LEAD system. This should happen automatically once you file a police report for a stolen license plate but it doesn’t hurt to check with the officer. Your license plate theft will be added to the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS), which is tied to the National Crime Information Center - a database used by law enforcement nationwide. That way if your plate is used in a crime in another state, it is logged as being stolen.
3. Notify your state’s motor vehicle department. File a ‘license plate revocation’ form with the Illinois Secretary of State or your state’s motor vehicle department. This notifies the state on record that your plate was stolen, and is the first step towards obtaining a temporary tag or new license plate and number for your vehicle. In filing these forms, you will likely need to include a police report documenting the theft, depending on your state’s requirements.
4. Consider license plate locks or anti-theft screws for the future. License plate security screws are an inexpensive way to fasten your plate to your car, and keep thieves from removing it. The kits include a specifically designed security wrench for removing the screws, for you to keep inside your home for future use. 

Illegal License Plates

An illegal license plate is one that falls outside the normal rules and regulations set by your state's DMV

An illegal license plate is a plate that falls outside the normal rules and regulations set by your state's department of motor vehicles (DMV).

For example, in the United States, each state has its own DMV. In each state, those who wish to drive a car must register it with their local DMV and get a license plate. Those who don't do this are breaking the law and can be fined or even have their driver's licenses revoked.

Some people use these to avoid red light cameras or toll roads

You might have seen these on the road. They look like regular license plates, but they have something that normal plates don't: an image of a camera with a red x through it. Some drivers use these to avoid paying tolls or traffic tickets from red light cameras, but it's important to note that these plates are illegal, and using them could result in you being fined up to $200 for just one plate. Plus, if you're caught using an illegal plate and driving without the proper registration and insurance, you could receive two points against your license and be subject to a suspension of your license for 90 days (or longer).

They often have the appearance of a government vehicle

Custom license plates come in all shapes and sizes, but not every custom tag is legal. The good news for many drivers is that anything two states away from California is fair game. In other words, if you buy a license plate from a different state, it's likely legal in the state where you reside. Custom plates with writing like "expired" are also legal; technically they aren't expired because they aren't issued by the DMV.

The vast majority of illegal license plates have the appearance of a government vehicle's plate. These plates are often the same size as a normal plate but may have a different shape or color scheme than that of standard-issue tags. Plates with lettering such as "police," "sheriff," and "CIA" are all illegal, even if they're just being used to look cool while cruising down Main Street on Saturday night. Any plate that isn't the standard-issue plate is considered illegal.

If it isn't a government car, don't use an illegal license plate.

In most countries, it is illegal to put license plates on a non-government car. If you do this and get caught, you can be fined as much as $100.

It's also dangerous to use government license plates improperly. In the event of an accident, the car owner must pay for damages—and if a person got hurt or killed in the crash, the driver would be at fault. That's why police take these cases so seriously.

Making a license plate unreadable is not legal.  This is what some people do. 

A reflective tape can make a number plate invisible to a camera. You only need reflective tape applied to the license plate. A reflective tape works mainly for roadside photo-radar with cameras using high-intensity flash to tag your plate and, perhaps, speed. 

Are license plate covers legal?

License plate covers are available with or without tint. Some will argue that the mere ability to purchase the cover at the automotive store makes it legal to use. However, this is not necessarily true. California Vehicle Code section 5201(f)(2) states (emphasis added):

Are tinted plate covers legal?

The answer is no." "The Vehicle Code prohibits you from having any form of covering over your license plate, whether it be clear or tinted. It is also illegal to have a license plate frame that could obstruct the month, the year, or the state of the vehicle that issued that plate," he explained.

License Plate Covers State Laws 

License Plate Laws by State
State	Plate Shields	Plate Frames	Visibility	Comments
Alabama	Yes	Yes	Must be visible at all times	"Alabama" must be clearly visible at top of plate
Alaska	Yes	Yes	Must be visible at all times
Arizona	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly legible and visible	"Arizona" must be clearly visible at top of plate
Arkansas	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly legible	Covers that make the license plate difficult to read or reduces its reflective properties are prohibited
California	NO	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Red light/speed camera license plate covers are also prohibited
Colorado	Clear only	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Covers that shield or impair the reading of a license plate by devices are also prohibited
Connecticut	Yes	Yes	Must be visible	Covers cannot obscure or impair visibility
Delaware	Clear only	Yes	Must be clearly readable	Red light/speed camera license plate covers, shields, sprays, etc. are also prohibited
District of Columbia	NO	Yes	clearly and distinct	Identification tags must be clearly legible
Florida	Yes	Yes	Must be visible at all times	Red light/speed camera license plate covers, shields, sprays, etc. are prohibited
Georgia	Clear only	Yes	Must be plainly visible	Red light/speed camera license plate covers, shields, sprays, etc. are prohibited
Hawaii	Yes	Yes	Must be visible at all times	Plates must be unobscured at all times
Idaho	Yes	Yes	Must be free of foreign materials and visible at all times	Plates must be clearly visible and legible
Illinois	NO	Yes	Must be clearly visible	anti red light/speed camera license plate covers, shields, sprays, devices, etc. are prohibited
Indiana	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Plates must be free of foreign materials
Iowa	Yes	Yes	Permit full view of numbers and letters	Frames must permit full view of all numbers and letters on registration plate
Kansas	NO	Yes	Must be clearly legible	license plate covers, shields, sprays, etc. are prohibited
Kentucky	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Frames and covers must permit full view of all numbers and letters on plate
Louisiana	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Plates must be free of foreign materials
Maine	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Plates, letters and numbers must be clearly visible at all times
Maryland	NO	Yes	Must be clearly visible	No tinted, colored, painted, marked, clear or illuminated object designed to distort the characters on a license plate is allowed. Plate covers may not even be advertised or offered for sale.
Massachusetts	NO	Yes	Must be displayed conspicuously	license plate covers, shields, etc. are prohibited
Michigan	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Plates must be free of foreign materials
Minnesota	NO	Yes	Must be plainly visible	No clear or colorless material that affects plated visibility or reflectivity is allowed
Mississippi	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Plates, letters and numbers must not be covered by any object, marking, paint, etc.
Missouri	Yes	Yes	Must be clearly visible	Covers may not impair reflective qualities of plate
Montana	Yes	Yes	Must be obviously visible	"Montana" and border outline of state must be clearly visible
Nebraska	Yes	Yes	Must be visible	All letters, numbers, etc. on plates must be free from grease dust and other blurring matter
Nevada	Yes	Yes	Readable from 100 ft.	Plates must be clearly legible and free from foreign material
New Hampshire	Yes	Yes	Displayed conspicuously	Plates must be clean and not be obscured
New Jersey	Yes	Yes	Displayed conspicuously	sale or use of anti red light/speed camera license plate covers, shields, sprays, devices, etc. are prohibited
New Mexico	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible	Plates must be clearly legible and free from foreign material
New York	NO	Yes	Must be visible	sale or use of anti red light/speed camera license plate covers, shields, substances, etc. are prohibited
North Carolina	Yes	Yes	Plainly readable from 100 ft.	No clear or colorless material that affects plate visibility or legibility is allowed
North Dakota	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible	Plates must be clearly visible and letters and numbers must not be obscured
Ohio	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible	Plates must be not be covered by any material that obstructs visibility
Oklahoma	NO	NO	Must be clearly visible	No plate frame, cover or material is allowed
Oregon	NO	Yes	Plain view and easily read	Any frame or plate holder that alters the plate or makes the numbers, letters or regtistration stickers difficult to read or unreadable is prohibited
Pennsylvania	NO	Yes	Must be visible at all times	Red light/speed camera license plate covers, shields, sprays, etc. are prohibited
Puerto Rico	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible	Plates must be not be covered by any material that obstructs visibility
Rhode Island	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible	Plainly readable from 100 ft.
South Carolina	No	Yes	Must be visible at all times	No tinted covers allowed
South Dakota	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible	Plates must be clearly visible and letters and numbers must not be obscured
Tennessee	No	Yes	Clearly visible	No tinted covers allowed and plates must be clearly visible with no foreign materials
Texas	Yes	Yes		No reflective matter or blurring of the plate and plates must be free of foreign material and clearly legible
Utah	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible	Plates must be free of foreign material and clearly visible
Vermont	No	Yes	Plainly legible	No tinted covers allowed and plates must be plainly legible at all times
Virginia	Yes	Yes	Clearly visible and legible	No colored frame or covers allowed and plates must be clearly visible and legible
Washington	Yes	Yes	Must be visible at all times	Unlawful to use frames or covers that change, alter or obscure any portion of the plate or make it illegible
West Virginia	Yes	Yes	Clearly legible	Plates must be free of foreign materials and clearly legible
Wisconsin	Yes	Yes	Clearly legible	Plates must be at all times be maintained in a legible condition
Wyoming	Yes	Yes	Clearly legible	Plates must be free of foreign materials and clearly legible