With other states reporting a rise in drivers concealing or switching their license plates to avoid legal repercussions, a measure from State Senator Steve Stadelman has been signed into law that explicitly bans license plate flippers.

“All drivers need to be held to the same standards on the road,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “People shouldn’t be using plate flippers to skip tolls, dodge cameras or evade police.”

The new law builds on current regulations, clarifying that the use of tape or flippers on any registration plate and any other evidence of registration issued by the Illinois Secretary of State is illegal. A license plate flipper is a device that allows drivers – with the push of a button – to obscure their license plates, often used to avoid identification when committing traffic violations. Illinois joins the expanding number of states in outlawing license plate flippers.

“Banning plate flippers will hold bad actors accountable on our roads,” said Stadelman. “This law not only protects the public and other drivers, it promotes responsible driving.”

Senate Bill 1883 was signed into law Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.