What are 'anti-photo' license plate covers? Are they legal in Kansas?

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Drivers attempting to avoid tolls and speeding cameras might get more than they bargained for after putting 'anti-photo' license plate covers on their vehicles.

27 News reached out to the Kansas Turnpike Authority about 'anti-photo' license plate covers that have been hitting the streets. According to KTA spokeswoman Rachel Bell, the KTA is aware that the covers are in use by drivers and acknowledged that it could impact cashless tolling.

Anti-photo license plate covers use embedded prisms that block the camera's ability to see your license plate at certain angles. Some of the covers block infrared light, blocking certain cameras but remain completely transparent to the naked eye, according to radarbusters.com.

"License plate covers and other devices that block a license plate are illegal in Kansas and may have a broad impact in a variety of areas. To name a few… cashless tolling, parking lot management, law enforcement, etc.," Bell said.

Under Kansas Statute 8-15, 110 and Standard Traffic Ordinance 126.1, it is illegal for anyone to cover their license plate with any clear or opaque material or any other plastic-like material that affects the plate’s visibility or reflectivity.

"Topeka Police officers enforce traffic laws, including this, and cite individuals, as necessary," City of Topeka spokeswoman Rosie Nichols said. "The penalty for STO 126.1 is a $100 fine and $76 for court costs."

Nichols said Topeka police have issued citations for license plate covers in the past.

Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) Captain Candice Breshears reports that since Jan. 1, the KHP has issued 45 citations and 658 warnings for the violation.

You can find a list of possible traffic infractions by clicking here.

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