Nevada is a two-license plate state — but not always

Are we a two-plate state?

No, I’m not talking about taking an extra dish to maximize value at the buffet line.

We’re talking license plates. As in, do you have to display a license plate on the front and back of your vehicle?

Warrior reader Bill asked: “When I switched my truck over to Nevada license plates I was told that Nevada is a two-plate state, one in front and one in the rear. After being here a couple of years now, I am noticing that a lot of cars only have the rear plate. Is this illegal or not?”

The definitive answer is “maybe.”

Kevin Malone of the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles said if there’s a way to attach that front plate to your car, you must. If the vehicle isn’t designed to display a front plate, you’re OK.

The DMV website is even more explicit.

“Nevada law requires most vehicles to display front and rear license plates at all times, except motorcycles and trailers, which require only a rear plate. You must display both plates if the vehicle is designed for a front plate or if the manufacturer offers an add-on bracket or frame.”

According to Nevada Revised Statutes, front plates are optional only if the vehicle was not designed for a front plate and the manufacturer did not provide an add-on bracket or other means of displaying the front plate.

Because the DMV issues two plates, except on motorcycles and trailers, it’s the owner’s responsibility to store the second plate and surrender or return both plates to the department at the appropriate time.

This rule begs some additional questions that we’ll explore another day. Like, how does the DMV keep up with which car models offer an add-on bracket? Or, is it illegal to display some kind of novelty plate on the front bumper? You know, like the ones that have the colors and Nevada license plate imagery that say “REBELS” or “WOLF PACK” or “VEGAS, BABY.”

In the meantime, make sure you display that front plate.

ROUGH ROADS

It must be the great weather that has gotten people out and about on their Sunday drives — and figuring out that many of our streets are in horrible shape.

Several Warrior readers sent emails this week asking about the timeline of repairs on various streets across the valley. I’ve forwarded all of them to the various agencies that handle those matters, and hopefully I’ll get to your favorite street eventually.

Here’s a sample from Warrior reader Spencer:

“When are they going to fix Durango Drive from Tropicana Avenue north to Spring Mountain Road?”

I’ve driven that stretch, Spencer. You’re right. My immediate thought was to trade in my minivan for an off-road vehicle, even though, technically, I was on a road.

When you ask when “they” are going to fix Durango, in this case, we’re talking about Clark County.

County spokesman Dan Kulin has an answer that should make you happy.

Durango will be repaved from Tropicana to Desert Inn Road this summer.

So hang on, Spencer. You won’t have to off-road this stretch for much longer.

RIGHT TURN ON RED

Last week, we hashed out the problem with two-lane right-turn locations at traffic lights.

They’re good because twice as many cars can get through a traffic-light cycle, but they’re bad because right turns on red are banned.

Except at one Southern Nevada location, apparently.

After that column ran, several people pointed out an intersection where motorists in the far-right lane are permitted to make a turn on red, but it’s prohibited by signage from the lane to its left.

Warrior readers say it’s on eastbound Ann Road turning onto southbound U.S. Highway 95.

Warrior reader Jo said it “allows right turns on red from the right lane, but prohibits them from the left right-turn lane … and it works. I love it.”

Hopefully, traffic engineers from around the valley can check this out and find more places to try it.

HEAVY TRAFFIC

Based on the outpouring of love the late Jerry Tarkanian has received from the community this month, expect a big turnout and a high level of traffic Sunday around the Thomas &Mack Center for a tribute to the former UNLV basketball coach.

The arena, home of the shark-infested Jerry Tarkanian Court, is likely to be packed, as will the streets surrounding the building for the 2 p.m. event.

Do yourself a favor and stay away from the area between about 1:15 and 3:30 unless you’re planning to attend the event. If you’re going, car pool with a friend.

Higher-than-normal traffic is likely on Tropicana Avenue, Paradise Road, Swenson Street (and the airport bypass route through the tunnel), Maryland Parkway, Harmon Avenue west of the university, Wilbur Street and Thomas &Mack Drive.

And, of course, Tarkanian Way.

Questions and comments should be sent to roadwarrior@reviewjournal.com. Please include your phone number. Follow @RJroadwarrior on Twitter.