Answer: With that information from your question I am going to stay they are “illegal”. I am sure they are illegal on the front of the vehicle, an example where they might be legal would fall under Minnesota State Statute (MSS) 169.50 Subd. 2. “License plates. Either such rear lamp or separate lamp shall be so constructed and placed as to illuminate with a white light the rear registration plate and render it legible from a distance of 50 feet to the rear. Any rear lamp or rear lamps, together with any separate lamp for illuminating the rear registration plate, shall be so wired as to be lighted whenever the headlamps or auxiliary driving lamps are lighted.”

But again, it is explained “shall be so constructed and placed” and I have not ever observed a license plate frame designed for that. Rear license plates light are usually mounted off to the side or above to illuminate with a white light.

I have seen some lighted license plate frames for sale that have the option to be wired in to the taillights and brake lights. But these are also illegal. Under MSS 169.64 Subd. 2. “Colored light. Unless otherwise authorized by the commissioner of public safety, no vehicle shall be equipped, nor shall any person drive or move any vehicle or equipment upon any highway with any lamp or device displaying a red light or any colored light other than those required or permitted in this chapter.”

Often I am asked how can stores sell these? If you note on most of these item’s packages if will state something similar to “Check with local and state ordinances prior to purchase”. They can be sold and used as a novelty (hanging in your shop or garage.) That is how they can sell them.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws in Minnesota, please send your questions to: Trooper Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501. Or reach me at jesse.grabow@state.mn.us