Underglow lights are a popular vehicle modification, but their legality varies across states due to safety concerns. Some key points:
- Underglow lights are subject to laws and regulations in each state to ensure public safety and prevent distracted driving.
- Common restrictions include:
- Color limitations (red and blue lights often prohibited)
- Location restrictions on the vehicle
- Glare and distraction limitations
| Legal Status | States |
|---|---|
| Legal with Restrictions | California, Kansas, Arizona, Ohio, Indiana, Colorado, Oregon |
| Illegal | Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington |
| Unique Laws | Arizona, Kansas, New York, California, Oregon |
To install underglow lights legally:
- Research your state’s specific laws and regulations
- Choose permitted colors like white, amber, or yellow
- Avoid distracting flashing or rotating lights
- Ensure safe installation without interfering with required lights
Compliance is crucial to avoid fines, penalties, or vehicle impoundment. Stay informed about the latest regulations in your state.
Underglow Lights Laws Vary Across States
Underglow lights laws differ significantly from state to state in the United States. While some states allow their use with minimal restrictions, others have strict laws prohibiting them. These laws aim to ensure public safety and prevent distracted driving.
Laws by State
Here’s a breakdown of underglow lights laws in different states:
| State | Law |
|---|---|
| California | Allowed with restrictions on color and location |
| Kansas | Allowed with restrictions on color and location |
| Arizona | Only permits amber or white lights without glare on side portions |
| South Carolina | Prohibits red, blue, or flashing lights anywhere on a vehicle |
Common Restrictions
- Color restrictions: Red and blue lights are often restricted due to their association with police cars and law enforcement vehicles.
- Location restrictions: Some states restrict the location of underglow lights on a vehicle.
- Glare restrictions: Laws may prohibit lights that cause glare or distractions for other drivers.
Understanding the specific laws and regulations in your state is crucial to avoid legal troubles and ensure safe vehicle customization. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the states where underglow lights are legal, banned, or have unique laws governing their use.
States Where Underglow Lights Are Legal
Underglow lights are legal in several states, but with varying restrictions. Here’s a breakdown of the states where you can legally install underglow lights on your vehicle:
Legal States
| State | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| California | No red, blue, or green lights; not visible from the front |
| Kansas | No red, blue, or green lights; not visible from the front |
| Arizona | Only amber or white lights; no glare on side portions |
| Ohio | No specific restrictions |
| Indiana | Must meet DOT or independent testing laboratory safety requirements |
| Colorado | Must meet DOT or independent testing laboratory safety requirements |
| Oregon | Must meet DOT or independent testing laboratory safety requirements |
Remember to always check with your local authorities for specific laws and regulations regarding underglow lights in your state. Even if underglow lights are legal in your state, there may be specific restrictions or requirements you need to follow.
States That Ban Underglow Lights
Some states have strict laws prohibiting underglow lights on vehicles. If you live in one of these states, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations to avoid fines and legal issues.
States with Strict Prohibitions
The following states ban underglow lights:
| State | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Connecticut | Only manufacturer-certified lighting equipment is allowed, except when mandatory and with a permit from the DMV |
| Illinois | The state prohibits using any lighting equipment not mentioned in the vehicle code |
| Maine | Under-vehicle lighting is only permitted for shows, events, and exhibitions, and you must not operate it on a public road |
| Massachusetts | The law specifically prohibits neon undercarriage lighting |
| Michigan | Aftermarket lighting not mentioned in the law must be covered and unlit in public |
| Minnesota | No vehicle can display colored lights other than those permitted |
| Pennsylvania | The state law bans all aftermarket lighting not mentioned in its vehicle code, which includes ground illumination |
| Virginia | Any aftermarket light, other than permissible ones, must be unlit and covered when driving on public streets |
| Washington | The state code specifically prohibits displaying aftermarket neon lighting devices while driving on public roadways |
Remember to always check with your local authorities for specific laws and regulations regarding underglow lights in your state. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, penalties, or even vehicle impoundment.
Unique State Laws on Underglow Usage
Some states have specific laws that permit underglow lights with certain restrictions. These laws vary in terms of color combinations, usage while driving vs. parked, and distinctions between vehicle types (cars, motorcycles, trucks).
State-Specific Laws
The following states have unique laws regarding underglow lights:
| State | Unique Law |
|---|---|
| Arizona | Only amber or white lights without glare are allowed on the side portions of a car |
| Kansas | Ground lighting on vehicles is permitted, except for flashing or red lights where the neon tube is visible |
| New York | Underglow lighting is allowed, but only in the color white, and the lighting cannot be rotating, flashing, oscillating, or otherwise moving |
| California | Underglow lights are permitted with specific restrictions on light emission, size, and position |
| Oregon | Underglow kits are allowed on cars, but not on motorcycles or trucks |
It’s essential to understand these unique state laws to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues. Always check with your local authorities for specific laws and regulations regarding underglow lights in your state. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, penalties, or even vehicle impoundment.
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Tips for Installing Underglow Lights Legally
When installing underglow lights on your vehicle, it’s crucial to do so legally to avoid fines or penalties. Here are some tips to help you install underglow lights legally:
Research Your State’s Laws
Before installing underglow lights, research your state’s laws and regulations regarding exterior lighting devices. Some states have specific restrictions on the color, placement, and type of lights allowed.
Choose the Right Colors
Opt for colors that are less likely to be restricted, such as white, amber, or yellow. Avoid using red or blue lights, as these are often reserved for emergency vehicles.
Avoid Distracting Lights
Avoid flashing or rotating lights, as these can be distracting and may be prohibited in your state. Instead, opt for steady, non-moving lights that do not create an excessive light show.
Ensure Safe Installation
When installing underglow lights, ensure they do not interfere with your vehicle’s required lights, such as headlights, taillights, or brake lights. Also, avoid installing lights within 12 inches of any required light or reflector.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your underglow lights while staying compliant with state laws and regulations. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when customizing your vehicle’s lighting.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Research state laws | Understand restrictions on color, placement, and type of lights |
| Choose safe colors | Opt for white, amber, or yellow to avoid restrictions |
| Avoid distracting lights | Steady, non-moving lights are safer and less likely to be prohibited |
| Ensure safe installation | Avoid interfering with required lights and keep a safe distance |
Remember to always check with your local authorities for specific laws and regulations regarding underglow lights in your state. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, penalties, or even vehicle impoundment.
Quick Reference Table: Underglow Laws by State
Here is a comprehensive table providing a rapid reference of the legal status of underglow lights in each state, with columns for the state name, legal status, and a brief summary of restrictions.
| State | Legal Status | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Alaska | Legal | White, yellow, or amber lights only |
| Arizona | Legal | Amber or white lights without glare on side portions |
| Arkansas | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| California | Legal | Restrictions on light emission, size, and position |
| Colorado | Legal | Approved by DOT or independent testing laboratory |
| Connecticut | Illegal | Only manufacturer-certified lighting equipment allowed |
| Delaware | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Florida | Legal | Restrictions on color and usage |
| Georgia | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Hawaii | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Idaho | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Illinois | Illegal | No aftermarket lighting not mentioned in vehicle code |
| Indiana | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Iowa | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Kansas | Legal | Ground lighting allowed, except for flashing or red lights |
| Kentucky | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Louisiana | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Maine | Illegal | Only allowed for shows, events, and exhibitions |
| Maryland | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Massachusetts | Illegal | Neon undercarriage lighting prohibited |
| Michigan | Illegal | Aftermarket lighting not mentioned in vehicle code prohibited |
| Minnesota | Illegal | No colored lights other than those permitted |
| Mississippi | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Missouri | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Montana | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Nebraska | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Nevada | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| New Hampshire | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| New Jersey | Legal | Restrictions on usage |
| New Mexico | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| New York | Legal | White aftermarket lighting allowed |
| North Carolina | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| North Dakota | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Ohio | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Oklahoma | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Oregon | Legal | Approved by DOT or independent testing laboratory |
| Pennsylvania | Illegal | Aftermarket lighting not mentioned in vehicle code prohibited |
| Rhode Island | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| South Carolina | Illegal | No red, blue, or flashing lights allowed |
| South Dakota | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Tennessee | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Texas | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Utah | Legal | Restrictions on usage |
| Vermont | Illegal | Underglow prohibited while driving |
| Virginia | Illegal | Aftermarket lighting not mentioned in vehicle code prohibited |
| Washington | Illegal | No aftermarket neon lighting devices allowed |
| West Virginia | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Wisconsin | Legal | No specific restrictions |
| Wyoming | Legal | No specific restrictions |
Remember to always check with your local authorities for specific laws and regulations regarding underglow lights in your state. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, penalties, or even vehicle impoundment.
Final Thoughts on Following Underglow Laws
In conclusion, it’s crucial to stay informed and compliant with local regulations regarding underglow lights. While they can be a fun way to customize your vehicle, safety and legality should always be your top priority.
Why Compliance Matters
- Avoid fines, penalties, or even vehicle impoundment
- Ensure your vehicle modifications are safe for yourself and others on the road
- Stay up-to-date with the latest regulations in your state
Tips for Compliance
- Research your state’s laws and regulations regarding underglow lights
- Keep a copy of your state’s laws handy in case you’re stopped or questioned
- Prioritize compliance and consult with local authorities or legal experts if you’re unsure
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your customized ride while also avoiding legal troubles. Remember, underglow laws are not static and can change over time, so it’s essential to stay informed and compliant.
FAQs
Underglow Lights in Illinois
In Illinois, underglow lighting is not allowed because it can distract other drivers on the road. Additionally, any exterior lighting on a vehicle must comply with local ordinances or be approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation (DOT).
Underglow Lights in New York
In New York, underglow neon lights are allowed to illuminate under vehicles, but only in white. Traffic laws in New York state that the use of white rear lights is not legally prohibited, as long as there is no specific requirement for use on public roads. However, the light is not allowed to rotate, flash, vibrate, or move in any other way.
Underglow Lights in Arizona
In Arizona, traffic laws only allow the use of amber or white neon lights. Lights with a glare effect are not allowed on the side parts of the vehicle.
Underglow Lights in Kansas
In Kansas, underglow neon lights may be used for ground lighting on vehicles, except for lights that have a flashing or red feature that is visible through the neon tube.
Underglow Lights in South Carolina
In South Carolina, underglow lights are not allowed, and it is illegal to use any red, blue, or flashing lights anywhere on your vehicle, visible or not.
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