Why Do Motorcyclists Flip Their Plates Backward?

Bill Allen | September 19, 2025 | Motorcycle Accident

Why Do Motorcyclists Flip Their Plates Backward?

Motorcycles symbolize freedom on the open road, but also come with responsibilities, including following traffic laws. One behavior that often raises eyebrows is when riders use a license plate that flips or mount their plates backward. Some may consider flipping license plates harmless, but Florida law takes a much stricter view. 

Here is what you need to know about why motorcyclists flip their plates backward and the potential penalties. 

Reasons That Motorcyclists Flip Their License Plates

Motorcyclists sometimes use license plate flippers to avoid detection by traffic cameras or police. Since toll systems, red-light cameras, and speed detection rely on clearly visible plates, blocking or flipping one makes it harder to identify the rider. These devices are especially common in activities like street racing or reckless riding, where riders want to reduce the risk of getting caught.

Some riders claim they use flippers for appearance, thinking it gives the bike a cleaner look. Others install a switch that tilts or rotates the plate out of view when they want to dodge a ticket. Whatever the reason, police generally treat license plate flippers as intentional efforts to avoid accountability and may respond with stricter enforcement.

What Are Florida’s Motorcycle License Plate Laws?

Florida law is very clear on motorcycle plate display. Under Florida Statute § 316.2085, riders must display a rear plate that is:

  • Permanently attached to the motorcycle
  • Positioned horizontally, not vertically or backward
  • Clearly visible from the rear

Using a license plate flipper is also against the law. Even if a rider installs the device only for appearance and never activates it, the fact that the plate is not securely and permanently mounted can still result in penalties. If the plate is not fixed in place and visible, it is considered a violation.

Riders using a license plate flipper may get tickets, fines, and points on their record. In more serious cases, police may treat it as an attempt to avoid detection, leading to harsher penalties. These devices are often linked to street racing, reckless driving, and other illegal behavior, making them a warning sign for law enforcement during traffic stops.

What Are the Risks of Altering A License Plate?

Covering or altering a license plate may seem harmless, but it is far from a minor traffic issue. Law enforcement takes these devices seriously; the consequences can extend beyond a simple ticket. 

Riders using flipping plates expose themselves to greater legal, financial, and criminal risks.

  • Traffic tickets and fines: Police often cite riders for plates that are blocked or altered.
  • Additional police scrutiny: A flipper can make officers suspect other offenses, leading to longer stops or searches.
  • Insurance issues: Insurers may treat a flipping plate as unlawful behavior, making claims harder to recover.
  • Criminal charges: Using a device to hide a plate can result in charges, especially if tied to racing or evading police.

What may seem like a shortcut often creates bigger legal and financial risks, while also drawing more police attention than a normal plate would. Even if a rider avoids one ticket by hiding their plate, the long-term costs of higher insurance premiums, court fees, and a criminal record far outweigh the short-term benefit.

Contact Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With an Ocala Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident—whether or not a plate flipper was involved—you need experienced legal guidance. At Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we’ll investigate the details, protect your rights, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Call today for a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Ocala, FL.
We have three convenient locations in Marion County and Alachua County, North Central Florida:

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville Office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652