There’s no worse way to start your outdoor adventure than cruising down the highway just to be pulled over and ticketed because your license plate isn’t visible. In Alberta, a bike rack on the back of a car can lead to fines when it obscures the vehicle’s license plate.
Many cyclists enjoy weekend trips to the mountains, or they might forget to remove the bike rack after unloading their bikes, leading to issues with law enforcement. If a police officer cannot see the license plate due to the bike rack, a ticket may be issued.
According to section 71(1) of Alberta’s Highway Safety Act, a license plate must be securely attached, legible, and always visible. Violating this regulation can result in fines, even if the bike rack only temporarily covers the license plate.
If you’re worried about covering your license plate, here are a few tips to avoid this situation. First, let’s take a look at what type of bike racks would cover a license plate.
Hitch-Mounted & Trunk Bike Racks
Due to the simple fact that these types of bike racks hold bikes at the rear of the vehicle, hitch-mounted and trunk bike racks would naturally cover your license plate.
Hitch-mounted bike rack
A hitch-mounted bike rack is a style of bike rack that’s designed to be attached to the hitch receiver of a vehicle, typically located at the rear. It provides a secure and convenient way to transport bicycles.
Hitch-mounted racks are specifically designed to fit into the receiver hitch, a square or rectangular opening beneath the rear bumper of many vehicles. The hitch receiver is designed to accommodate a trailer hitch but can also be used to attach various accessories, including a bike rack hitch.
Trunk bike rack
Trunk bike racks typically have a metal frame with adjustable arms and straps that secure the rack to the vehicle’s trunk or rear hatch. The arms extend outward and downward to support the bikes. The bikes are usually secured in place using straps or cradles that hold them by their frames, and additional straps are often used to secure the bikes to the rack to prevent them from shifting during transit.
Can I Get an Extra License Plate For My Bike Rack to Avoid a Ticket?
No, you can’t legally get a third license plate to mount on your bike rack anywhere in Canada. All provinces require that the original plate remain visible and unblocked, and using a photocopy or vinyl decal is also illegal.
While some racks have holders to reposition your plate, you’re still responsible for ensuring it’s visible and illuminated at night. Fines for obscured plates vary by province and can be as high as $500. The safest option is to choose a rack that doesn’t block your plate or includes a secure, legal mounting solution.
Avoiding Unexpected Fines
To avoid such fines, here are some solutions for cyclists:
Roof Racks
Roof-mounted bike racks are an excellent alternative to rear-mounted ones. These racks keep your license plate visible and are ideal for vehicles with sufficient roof clearance. Roof racks are handy if you transport bikes frequently and need to keep the back of your car accessible.
Hitch-Mounted Racks with License Plate Holders
Some hitch-mounted bike racks have built-in license plate holders or offer accessories that allow you to relocate your license plate to the back of the bike rack. Thule, for instance, provides these options to ensure your plate remains visible.
Trunk-Mounted Racks with Adjustable Plates
Certain trunk-mounted bike racks are designed with adjustable features that allow the license plate to stay visible. Ensure the rack you choose has this feature or can be easily modified to meet visibility regulations.
License Plate Relocation Kits
These kits help you move your license plate from its standard location to a spot where it remains visible even when your bike rack is attached. These kits are easy to install and ensure compliance with the law.
Temporary mounts can be a practical solution for those who only occasionally use bike racks. These mounts can be attached and removed as needed, ensuring your license plate is always visible when the bike rack is in use.
Bike Rack Accessories
Many bike rack manufacturers offer accessories that help keep the license plate visible. These include extension arms, reflective plates, and additional lighting to ensure the plate is always legible.
By choosing one of these solutions, you can enjoy their rides without worrying about fines or legal issues. It’s essential to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to ensure compliance with regulations, avoid fines, and ensure a safe, hassle-free biking experience.
Premium Solutions and Expert Installation
To ensure your biking adventures are stress-free and compliant with local laws, explore our range of bike rack solutions available at Calgary Hitch Shop. From roof racks and hitch-mounted racks to our expert installation services, we have everything you need to transport your bikes safely and legally without your bike rack covering your license plate.
Call us today for more information or visit us at one of our locations, and one of our team members will be happy to help.
Stay informed, stay compliant, and enjoy hassle-free cycling with Calgary Hitch Shop.
