What can you do when seizing license plates?

When seizing license plates, the appropriate action is to seize the license plate and tow the vehicle. This is based on the understanding that the license plate is often a crucial part of the identification of the vehicle involved in an offense or investigation.

By seizing the plate, law enforcement can prevent the individual from using it on another vehicle, which may be necessary if the plate is linked to illegal activity, such as driving without insurance or registration. Towing the vehicle is also a standard procedure, as it removes the vehicle from public roads, ensuring that it does not pose any further risk or legal issues while the situation is being resolved.

Seizing and returning the license plate to the owner conflicts with the enforcement of vehicle regulations. Issuing only a ticket does not address the potential ongoing compliance issues that may need to be mitigated through physical action. Seizing the vehicle without taking the license plate does not effectively resolve the matter of unauthorized or illegal use. Therefore, the correct practice is to seize the license plate and tow the vehicle to maintain proper enforcement of vehicle laws and regulations.