In a message dated 3/11/00 1:47:54 PM Eastern Standard Time, dmc-xii@xxxx writes: << Why can't the meter maids approach the cars from the back to read the back plate? It is stupid to make this a law just for the "benefit" of meter maids. No one else ever looks at the front plate. The front plate, IMO, ruins the look of the De Lorean, and most other cars for that matter. Besides, isn't exercise good for you? >> Why I couldnt agree more that front license plates look horrible, this is hardly the only reason for them. States that have them are usually because it gives law enforcement personnel double the visibility for the plates. For instance a speeder coming at you you might get the front plate but not the rear or if someone is involved in a hit and run then a bystander might have seen the front and not the back and so on. There are plenty of instances where someone might only see the front of the car clearly and the back not so clear. In any event it is simply for better visibility that states have the front plate. I would be happy if my state repealed the front plate requirement however. Gary