Question: I own a 1994 BMW. Last time registration was due, I purchased a collector plate and joined the BMW club. I know you're not supposed to drive the car for everyday use, such as driving to the grocery store or running errands. I have a friend who told me I can only drive the car to club meetings or auto shows. True or not true? If not true, what are the restrictions to driving the car? If I'm going to sell the car, can I drive it to a mutual meeting point? Can I take it out every once in a while for a "spin?"
Answer: There are several requirements for “collector” license plates.
•The vehicle must be a minimum of 20 years old.
•The owner must prove that they have one or more vehicles with regular license plates.
•The vehicle is owned and operated solely as a collector's item, and not for general transportation purposes.
What are general transportation purposes? To law enforcement, this means that you can drive it to fairs, shows, etc., but it is not to be utilized for work, school, shopping and other everyday activities. It is a judgment call on the part of the officer, but the intent of the law is that the vehicle is not to be used as an additional vehicle for your family.
If you are in violation of one of the requirements listed above, you could be charged with:
•“Improper use of registration” – a misdemeanor (90 days and/or $1,000 fine).
•“Intent to escape tax” – a gross misdemeanor (up to one year and/or $3,000 fine) depending on the situation.
These license plates are also subject to impoundment. As the owner, you are responsible for maintaining the proper registration on your vehicle. If you are going to use the vehicle for other purposes, have regular plates on it.
Question: I have two questions for you. Do I need a hood on my car to operate it legally? What is the law regarding vehicle fenders and tires sticking out beyond the sides of a vehicle?
Answer: There is nothing in Minnesota law requiring a hood on a motor vehicle while in transport.
Minnesota law states that “Every passenger automobile shall have fenders, or other devices, that are designed to prevent, as far as practicable, water, dirt, or other material being thrown up and to the rear by the wheels of the vehicle.”
So every vehicle MUST have fenders. In reference to wheels sticking out, if the wheels go out beyond the outside of the vehicle, then they would NOT be in compliance with the law. If someone was to have wider wheels on their vehicle that stuck out past the fender, they would need some type of fender flare added on.
If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester, Minnesota 55901-5848, or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us