Why must the rear license plate be illuminated?

The requirement for the rear license plate to be illuminated primarily centers around ensuring visibility at night. Proper illumination allows other drivers on the road to easily identify a vehicle's registration number after dark, which is crucial for safety and law enforcement purposes. A clearly visible license plate helps to enhance accountability, facilitating the identification of vehicles during nighttime conditions when visibility is reduced. This is particularly important in preventing accidents and improving traffic enforcement.

While aesthetic reasons might play a role in vehicle design, compliance with regulations is focused on functionality and safety. Similarly, stating that it is not necessary would overlook the critical importance of visibility for safety and identification. Therefore, the illumination of the rear license plate is an essential feature designed to enhance both safety on the road and adherence to traffic regulations.