Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: license plate location in Michigan, plate, mount


Question
You probably don't know the answer to this, but it's worth a shot.  I want to move my license plate from its' original location, which is under the tail light, and move it more towards the bottom of the tail.  Do you think that will attract attention.

Answer
Last I knew the law in Mich. says this:

"Plate shall at all times be securely fastened in a horizontal position to the vehicle for which the plate is issued so as to prevent the plate from swinging. The plate shall be attached at a height of not less than 12 inches from the ground, measured from the bottom of the plate, in a place and position which is clearly visible. The plate shall be maintained free from foreign materials that obscure or partially obscure the registration information, and in a clearly legible condition."

Certainly, any nonstandard mount is going to attract attention. But if it's clearly visible and your behavior doesn't attract any attention, you should be okay. However, there may be a law that says the plate has to be lit with a white bulb. Better check the statutes yourself to know for sure.

Pat