I asked my DS this very question about my Model X delivery here in California. Apparently next year it becomes law that suppliers have to install the front plate. This being 2017, as a consumer, I can choose to not have it done. That being said, I was told that for a Model S, they had to install it, but for a Model X, I could leave it off. Thank God I'm getting an X. By law, you are supposed to have on in California, but so far, knock on carbon fiber, I haven't got a ticket for no front plate and I've been driving that way since 2003. Maybe with the stricter law starting next year I will get a "fixit" ticket. If so, I may have to begrudgingly comply. I hate the look of those things -- even though I have custom plates. I just like my plate on the back.