Correct American Flag Positioning on Cars: Which Way
the Stripes Should Face

Displaying the American flag on your vehicle is a powerful way to show patriotism—but it’s
important to make sure it’s displayed correctly and respectfully. A common question many
people ask is:
Which way should the American flag face on the side of a car?
The answer comes directly from the U.S. Flag Code, and while it may seem counterintuitive at
first, there is a very specific and meaningful reason behind it.

The Key Rule for American Flags on Vehicles

When the American flag is displayed on the side of a vehicle, the blue field of stars must
always face forward, toward the front of the car.
This applies to:
● Car doors
● Trucks and service vehicles
● Trailers
● Fleet vehicles
● Vinyl flag decals and printed graphics

Why the Stars Must Face Forward

The flag is always displayed as if it is moving forward into the wind. When placed on a
vehicle, the flag should appear as though it is flying backward due to forward motion, just like
a real flag on a pole.
That means:
● Driver side: Stars are on the front left, stripes flow toward the rear
● Passenger side: Stars are on the front right, stripes again flow toward the rear

If the stars face backward, the flag is considered improperly displayed.

Quick Visual Rule of Thumb

If your car is moving forward:
● The stars always lead
● The stripes always trail

If the stripes appear to be “heading into the wind,” the flag is backwards.

Why This Rule Exists

This tradition dates back to military practices, where the flag on a soldier’s right shoulder
appears reversed so the union (stars) always faces forward in the direction of movement. It
symbolizes:
● Forward motion
● Honor
● Respect
● Defense of the nation

The same principle applies to vehicles, uniforms, aircraft, and decals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

● Using the same decal for both sides of a vehicle
● Placing a forward-facing flag on the driver side and repeating it unchanged on the
passenger side
● Rotating the flag vertically without maintaining the correct star position
● Mirroring the flag incorrectly during design or print setup

Each side of a vehicle requires a correctly mirrored version so the stars always face forward.

Does the Flag Code Legally Apply to Decals?

The U.S. Flag Code provides guidelines for respectful display, but it is not legally enforceable
for most civilian uses. However, following proper flag orientation is widely viewed as a sign of
respect and professionalism, especially for:
● Law enforcement vehicles
● Military-related graphics
● Municipal fleets
● Veteran-owned businesses
● Patriotic branding
American Flag Placement on Other Parts of a Vehicle
● Rear window: Stars should still be oriented at the upper left when viewed
● Hood: Stars should face the driver’s side and the front of the vehicle
● Roof: Orientation should match how the vehicle moves forward

If you are unsure, a professional print provider can set up the artwork correctly for each surface.

Why Correct Flag Orientation Matters

Displaying the American flag correctly shows:
● Respect for national symbolism
● Attention to detail
● Professionalism in branding
● Alignment with military and flag traditions

For businesses, it also avoids public criticism and protects your brand reputation.

Final Takeaway

When placing an American flag decal on the side of any vehicle:
✅ Stars always face forward
✅ Stripes always flow toward the rear
✅ Each side of the car requires a mirrored version
If the stars are facing the back of the vehicle, the flag is displayed incorrectly.