🚗 Attaching an Unassigned Plate or Tag in Florida: What You Need to Know

In Florida, attaching a license plate or validation sticker to a vehicle that hasn’t been officially assigned or transferred is a criminal offense—even if you didn’t mean to break the law. Many people underestimate how serious the consequences can be.

If police in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, have arrested you or issued you a criminal traffic citation, you must understand your rights—and how a skilled defense attorney can step in to help.

⚖️ The Law: Fla. Stat. § 320.261

Under Florida Statute § 320.261, it is a crime to knowingly attach to any motor vehicle:

A license plate, or
A validation sticker
…that the DHSMV did not issue, assign, or lawfully transfer to that specific vehicle.

💥 Penalties:

Second-degree misdemeanor
Up to 60 days in jail
Up to 6 months of probation
$500 fine

Although this seems like a minor traffic offense, it’s a criminal charge, not a civil citation.

Need a Criminal Traffic Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale or Anywhere in South Florida?

🔍 Why This Matters for First-Time Offenders

For most people, jail does not pose the biggest risk—it’s the permanent criminal record that comes with being adjudicated guilty if convicted. Unfortunately, this record:

Can’t be sealed or expunged in most cases
May affect background checks, insurance, or professional licensing
Could hurt job prospects or rental applications

So if you face this or other criminal traffic charges, you must take them seriously, even if it seems like a minor mistake.

🛡️ How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

At Michael White, P.A., we fight for clients across Fort Lauderdale and South Florida who are facing plate and registration-related charges.

For instance, we may be able to:

Negotiate a reduced charge to avoid adjudication
Argue for dismissal or pretrial diversion
Highlight errors in how the stop or citation was handled
Keep your record clean and avoid permanent consequences

📞 Call (954) 707-0850 now to schedule a free consultation and protect your future.

💬 FAQs: Unassigned Plate or Sticker Charges in Florida

Q: Is this a civil traffic ticket or a criminal offense?

A: It’s a criminal offense—a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida law.

Q: Can I go to jail for attaching an unassigned plate?

A: Yes, though many cases result in probation or diversion if handled properly by a defense attorney.

Q: What if I didn’t know the plate was unassigned?

A: Intent is a key issue. Your attorney can argue you lacked knowledge or that the charge doesn’t meet the legal threshold.

Q: Will this go on my permanent record?

A: If convicted, yes. That’s why it’s important to fight the charge or seek to have it dismissed or diverted.