I think no. U hav to replace the burned-out bulbs.

ha,either the inspection officer was sleepy or not in official mood. So he let go this time.

Got it.Yes.Under traffic laws in all states,all motor vehicles are required to have certain equipment properly installed on a vehicle, and that equipment must be functioning correctly while the vehicle is in operation.

Light bulbs over your license plate is one such equipment that is included:
Lights (headlights, turn signals, brake lights, license plate lights)
http://courttv.dui.findlaw.com/traffic-ticket-violation-law/traffic-ticket-a-z/mechanical-violation.html

In many states, if you get pulled over for speeding, and you make the cop angry, they can cite you for having a bulb out in your glovebox. if there's a place for a bulb, it must function.