California’s new Vehicle Code Section 5201 is putting an end to any attempts to hide or obscure your license plate from view. Whether you’re thinking of painting it over, using a cover, or employing a device to block its visibility, don’t do it! The effective law now bans any actions designed to obstruct the view of your license plate, whether by the eye sight or through electronic means. If you're caught, you could face a $250 fine for each violation. That new license plate cover seems a lot less appealing now! No more hiding your plate to avoid the law—your license plate needs to stay visible, whether you want it to or not!