Underglow lighting is a common trend amongst car enthusiasts as it is used to modify the look of the car. In this guide, we try to find the legality of applying underglow in cars for popular states across the US, as well as the restrictions and reasons for such restrictions. Keep reading to find what type of colors and situations are allowed for the underglow. So, stay with us!

What is Underglow?

“Underglow refers to the LED or neon tube lights that are attached to the underneath of the car which serves the purpose of illuminating the area beneath the car.” 

Underglow is a type of car customization that serves the purpose of making a car look more vibrant and gives it a buzz theme. There are various forms of underglow, including single-tone programmable types that have different patterns or effects.

Underglow is often used as a tool for self-expression by car enthusiasts as it helps to set them apart from everyone else. These are primarily seen during car shows, music videos, and any events that are held for people who like custom cars. 

Moreover, other than just decoration, underflow lights can help the car to be recognized during nighttime, although that isn’t the main reason why they are used.

Underglow lights can be an attractive accessory for vehicles, but they also need to be used in compliance with local regulations. Installing them without prior research of local laws can lead to serious penalties. Thus, always make sure to do a bit of digging before getting these lights to your car.

General Legality of Underglow Lighting in the U.S.

Is underglow illegal? Great question, to be honest, if legislation in your area permits, then you can enjoy under glow lights, as they remain legal to install in a majority of places. Having said that, one can’t install them without abiding by region-specific regulations. Some of these include:

• Non-Distracting Lights: Colors such as red and blue are troublesome as they are normally associated with emergency vehicles hence their use is prohibited.

• Flashing Lights: These lights are illegal as they mimic the signals of police and other emergency vehicles. Thus, only static lights are allowed.

Remember that enforcement areas set regulations based on their landscape; urban areas that have heavy traffic will use tighter regulations compared to rural areas. Browse! Go to the browser and check the rules set in your jurisdiction before going for underglow wiring. You know, disobeying these rules can land you in trouble up to getting fined and citation.

State-Specific Laws on Underglow Lighting

Now let’s discuss laws on underflow lights concerning different states of the U.S.

California

California is quite famous in the US for its very strict rules regarding vehicle modifications. Any use of underflow lighting falls under the same restriction. The state vies to keep its public roads safe, considering its high population density. Regarding the use of underflow lighting, Californian law establishes the specific placement and use of coloration.

Legal Colors: White and amber underglow LED lights are permitted as long as they are not constantly flashing and are only visible from the front of the vehicle. These colors are regarded as non-annoying since they do not look like signals for emergency vehicles.

Illegal Colors: Blue and red 360 LED lights are illegal to use. Such colors are reserved for police and other emergency vehicles’ flashing lights. The wearing of these colors in a non-emergency vehicle could create public confusion as well as misidentification.

Placement Rules: The vehicle should not have underglow lighting that can be seen from the back of the car. Also, they should not block or interfere with any other lights on the car, such as turn signals, taillights, and stop lights.

Compared to other states, California has enacted strict measures in order to serve its public. California indulges in heavily burdening fines, permanent car impounding, and the removal of underglow lights as well. As for a suggestion, it is always advised to read about the California Vehicle Code. Their phone numbers can also be found on the internet, which can be used to contact the state you can browse to view.

For up-to-date info, update your browser!

Texas

Compared to California, Texas proves to be an easier state since both the officers and the people of the state are much more lenient regarding under-glow lights laws. There still are a few second rules that must be adhered to as a Car Enthusiast. Texas makes sure to allow each individual to showcase their creativity without posing a threat to the safety of the roads.

Legal Colors: Within Texas, all colors are registered legally. This, as a whole, brings forth a considerable amount of freedom when it comes to adorning or decorating the cars. Rotating and flashing lights, in legal terms, are classified as emergency vehicles and hence cannot be used.

Prohibited Uses: The glow on the undercarriage has to be distinct from the emergency vehicles. For example, blue and red colors are restricted. Additionally, lights that prevent drivers from seeing or concentrating on the road are also banned.

Visibility Guidelines: Lights must be fitted so that they do not interfere with the driver’s ability to see or concentrate due to being excessively bright. This minimizes the chances of the other drivers losing focus or becoming disoriented.

Use a browser to view the laws as it is always a good option to check the laws that each city possesses, that is because, in Texas, different cities possess different jurisdictions in connection with restrictions.

Washington

This approach to underglow lighting cares about a distraction-free environment and road performance security. The state’s laws aren’t as forgiving as Texas’s but less strict than those of California.

Legal Colors: White, amber, and yellow underglow LED strips are legal. These colors are considered safe and nonconfusing for other road users.

Illegal Colors: California has noted that red and blue lights are illegal. These colors are designated for emergency and law enforcement vehicles. The use of red or blue lighting on civilian cars, even in a small visible mount, may incur penalties.

Safety Focus: The use of underglow must not hinder the visibility or elements of any compulsory vehicle lighting system such as headlights, taillights, brake lights, etc. 

In turn, it is also the responsibility of the drivers to ensure that the underglow lighting is set at a level that does not cause a glare that is too excessive for other vehicles and road users.

The issued bills include their claim that not all laws have been complied with as enumerated and will be subjected to fines, citations, or required to take out the underglow lights. Any driver may abide by this rule by looking into the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) or liaising with other local authorities for guidance.

Benefits of Underglow Lighting

The legality of these lights is really worth discussing, but there are some benefits of underglow lights that we can’t deny, let’s discuss;

Car Enhancement: Regardless of the reason for its use, underglow enhances a vehicle’s visual appeal, allowing it to serve its intended purposes. From car shows to personal use, the lights make a vehicle look exquisite. ( Learn the difference between 3057 Vs. 3157 car headlight bulbs )

Improved Safety: In low-light situations, underglow lights have the potential to improve the visibility of a vehicle to pedestrians and drivers, enhancing safety. ( Why your headlights flicker and how to update them )

Custom Design: Underglow lights have long been adopted by auto fanatics in order to promote their individuality. This is an innovative approach to modifying the car, making it different from its baseline. ( if you wanna know about the headlight restoration kit, click here )

Why is Underglow Restricted or Prohibited?

• Avoiding confusion with emergency required devices: Red and blue lights are the domain of police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances. Nowadays, allowing these colors to be used in private vehicles would lead to confusion for some drivers during an emergency situation.
• Minimizing the distraction of the driver: Bright lights, flashing lights, or colored lights, for example, can distract others when operating vehicles, increasing the chances of crashing. This, in particular, happens in densely populated areas and during nighttime.
• Ensuring security: This kind of regulation regarding the use of underglow lights seeks to eliminate tough conditions, like glare or even not being able to identify important signals like brake lights.

Overall Legal Colors and Situations for Underglow

Allowed Colors

• White: Normally allowed since it does not attract attention and is the same as a regular car.
• Amber/ Yellow: Quite popular as an underglow since it is not too confusing.Banned Colors

• Blue/Red: These are most often banned because they are used in emergency vehicles.

• Flashing Lights: Considered illegal in most circumstances irrespective of color, as they are used as subsequent signals by the police.Situations when underglow can be used
• At car shows underglow can be used on parked cars, or on private property.
• Non-flashing lights, of legal colors can be used while driving at night.
• Sourcing local laws and regulations concerning the placement and visibility of the lights.

How to Choose Safe and Legal Underglow Lighting

• Determine the Purpose: Remember to pick the colors and brightness if you’re looking for underglow for visibility reasons or perhaps for aesthetics during car shows for example.

• Confirm Local Laws: Follow through an investigation based on your area laws, as each state varies some are strict while others hold a wider range.

• Make the Deliver of Quality More Important: Legally non-compliant or poor quality underglow neon lights should be avoided at all costs to not only meet the legal standard but also enhance safety. Purchase products with validation stamps. For this purpose, you can trust Carlightvision. We have experience of more than 15 years in the same field. Our all products meet CE standards well. 

Usage Tips

Research: Ignoring state or city laws on underglow lights is highly inadvisable.

Color Restriction: Keeping to using white and amber for the colors broadens the legal restrictions.

Do Not Utilize Flashing or Rotating Lights: The majority of these districts are disallowed for safety measures.

Professional Installation: Confirm that the lights are lodged and situated correctly. Consider how many square inches it is.

Double-check Compliance Considerations: Having the local DMV or law enforcement assist in any confusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Restrictions For Using Underglow Light?

Yes! There are restrictions for using underglow lights. With the help of your local authorities, you can easily work with underglow lights but when using them, it is necessary to utilize them with restrictions and to pass ray ID.

What Are The Restrictions Regarding Underglow Lights?

According to US and Canadian law, using blue and red lights is restricted as they are commonly used by emergency vehicles such as police and ambulances to reach the site properly on time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using car underglow lights can add a distinct touch to a vehicle but understanding the legality can help prevent violations. By considering state regulations, refrained colors, and the installation of the lights a car owner can indulge himself in this trending mode.

Get the top quality under glow lights with Carlightvision 

Make your ride more exciting with amazing underglow lights by Carlightvision! View our site now! Give your ride the makeover it deserves with colorful lights, interchangeable designs, and effects. We also offer headlight LEDs,s which are great for improving your visibility at night. Contact us and get a free quote right now.