Get ready, Florida drivers—starting October 1, 2025, major changes to Florida’s motor vehicle laws go into effect under HB 253, also known as the “Motor Crimes” bill. These updates introduce tougher consequences for certain vehicle-related offenses. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing—and what you need to know.
Remember, there are also new requirements to get your driver’s license in Florida starting July 1st.
1. Impersonating Law Enforcement with Lights
What’s changing: Under Section 316.2397, driving a vehicle equipped with red, white, or blue lights visible from the front isn’t new—but if you use those lights in an attempt to pull over another vehicle, the penalty escalates. What was once a first-degree misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine) is now a third-degree felony (up to 5 years prison, $5,000 fine).
Why it matters: These days, law enforcement are impersonated for malicious reasons more often leading to this law on the books. Car enthusiasts could get stung by this law if they are not careful, even using flashing lights as a prank could land you in serious trouble. It’s no joke anymore—it’s felony-level.
2. Tampering with License Plates or Registration Documents
What’s changing: Altering or covering up your license plate, registration certificate, temporary plate, validation sticker, or mobile home sticker used to be a low-level infraction (think base fine ~$60). Now it’s a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail, $500 fine.)
Why it matters: Tints, spray-on covers, or makeshift masks on plates—even if done to avoid tolls or surveillance—could cost you jail time and fines. A recent trend in the car community are customized plates. These ARE ILLEGAL and are now have even stricter penalties if you own, manufacture or distribute altered plates.
3. License Plate Obscuring Devices: Banned
As more cameras patrol our roadways, some drivers have turned to products that hide license plates from readers. In response, HB 253 introduces Section 320.262 defining “license plate obscuring devices”—gear designed to hide, flip, disguise or switch plates automatically.
- Buying or owning such a device is now a second-degree misdemeanor.
- Manufacturing, selling, or distributing one becomes a first-degree misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine).
- Using one to commit a crime or avoid law enforcement is bumped up to a third-degree felony—the same penalty as impersonating an officer.
What You Need to Do
- Be conscious that all types of aftermarket lighting on your car that vaguely resembles law enforcement could make you a target to get pulled over. Avoid ANY appearance of impersonating law enforcement—no tinted LED bars, strobe lights, or other contraband on your car.
- Don’t tamper with plates or registration stickers, not even for a short-term scheme. Earlier this year we covered a recent crackdown in personalized plates. It’s just not worth it.
- If you already own an “obscuring device,” dispose of it well before October 1.
Summary Table
| Offense | Old Classification | New Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Using prohibited lights to pull someone over | 1st-degree misdemeanor | 3rd-degree felony |
| Altering/covering plate or registration | Noncriminal infraction | 2nd-degree misdemeanor |
| Owning obscuring device | Not explicitly illegal | 2nd-degree misdemeanor |
| Selling obscuring device | Not explicitly illegal | 1st-degree misdemeanor |
| Using device during crime/escape | Not explicitly addressed | 3rd-degree felony |
These legal tweaks make certain vehicle offenses far more serious. Heavy fines, jail terms, even felony records are now on the table. If you’re facing charges under HB 253, early legal counsel matters.
The Ticket Clinic specializes in traffic and misdemeanor defense. We can help you:
- Assess your case
- Fight to reduce or dismiss charges
- Navigate possible plea deals or alternatives
- Avoid a lifelong felony on your record
HB 253 takes effect October 1, 2025.
Need legal guidance or more details? Reach out to The Ticket Clinic. We’ll guide you through the changes and help protect your rights on Florida roads.
