Lights for under your car are legal in some parts of the US and Canada, and illegal in some other parts. States like Ontario and Texas have certain restrictions on the use of lights under your car.
Have you ever seen a car with colorful lights under its body, creating a glowing effect on the road? Fanciful, right? These are called under glow lights.
They are a popular accessory for car enthusiasts who want to customize their vehicles and make them stand out. Underglow lights add some flair and personality to your car and also improve its visibility and safety at night.
However, they can also cause some legal troubles if you are not careful. In this article, we will explore the legality of under glow lights in the US and Canada, and offer some tips on how to install them safely and legally.
Is underglow illegal in the US?
It’s a Yes, and a No. It is legal to drive with lights under your car in the US, but certain states have laws that restrict you from using underglow lights in certain ways.
Certain states that it is illegal to have lights under your car in the US include; Texas, Michigan, Massachusetts, and Maine.
The legality of underglow lights in the US varies by state, and there are different laws and regulations regarding the color, brightness, location, and movement of the lights. Some laws determine the type of cars that are eligible for underglow lights in the US.
For instance; some states allow underglow lights as long as they are not red, blue, or flashing, and as a civilian you shouldn’t use underglow lights that will get your car confused for a police van or an ambulance.
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Some states also have specific rules about the height and angle of the lights, and how they affect the visibility of other drivers and pedestrians.
Here is a list of states in the US where the use of lights for under your car is legal, illegal, or restricted:
States Where use of lights for Under your Car is Legal
1. California, US
Underglow lights are legal in California, as long as they are not red, and do not flash or blink. The lights must also be mounted lower than the wheel hub level, and not project more than 12 inches from the vehicle’s body.
If the car with underbody lights is leased, rented, or donated, then its operation should be within business or residential areas or close proximity and cannot be used on public roads.
2. Florida, US
It is not illegal to use Underglow lights in Florida, but certain restrictions apply. The lights must not be red, blue, or green, and must not flash, oscillate, or rotate. The lights must also not impair the vision or visibility of the driver or other motorists, must not be visible from the front of the car and not to be used on public roads.
States Where use of lights for Under your Car is Illegal
1. Texas, US
Underglow lights are illegal in Texas, especially if they are red, white, or blue. The lights under the car must also not be visible from more than 75 feet away from the vehicle.
Acceptable lights in Texas include running lamps, headlamps, tail lamps, backup lamps, and turn signal lamps. Alternating flashing lights are not permitted except on school buses, emergency vehicles, or church buses.
2. Michigan, US
It is illegal to use underglow lights in your car in Michigan. You will be arrested and penalized if you drive with lights under your car on Michigan public roads. Well, except you cover them or make them invisible.
3. Massachusetts, US
The use of underglow lights is illegal in Massachusetts. Flashing, rotating, or oscillating lights are banned in Massachusetts and no driver is permitted to use them on their cars except if the vehicle is used for an emergency, or owned by the police force or its auxiliaries or by a charitable organization. Reservations are also made for members of private security agencies, commonwealth agencies, or political agencies.
4. Maine, US
It is illegal to have lights under your car in Maine, except if you are using the car for shows, events, or any form of exhibition. However, even if you’re using the vehicle for shows, events, or exhibitions, you are not permitted to drive with a light under your car on Maine public roads.
Is it illegal to have lights for under your car in Canada?
Just as in the US, the legality of underglow lights in Canada also varies by province and territory. There are similar laws and regulations as in the US regarding the color, brightness, location, and movement of the lights. Some provinces and territories allow underglow lights as long as they are not red, blue, or flashing, while others prohibit them altogether.
Some provinces and territories also have specific rules about the height and angle of the lights, and how they affect the visibility of other drivers and pedestrians. It is illegal to drive with lights under your car on public roads in Alberta, Ontario, Illinois, New Brunswick, and British Columbia, Canada.
Here is a list of provinces and territories where the use of lights for under your car is legal, illegal, or restricted:
1. Ontario, Canada (Legal)
It’s easier to just state that the use of underglow lights is legal in Ontario. However, the complications of the law make it very hard to keep.
The use of lights under cars is not entirely illegal in Ontario, but certain restrictions make it even more complicated.
You can use underglow lights in Ontario, but no red lights, green or blue. The lights should not flash, rotate, or oscillate and must also not be visible from the front or rear of the vehicle. These lights must not distract or impair the vision of other drivers nor have drivers confusing your car for an emergency vehicle.
2. Alberta, Canada (Illegal)
Underglow lights are illegal in Alberta. Alberta has laws that state that any modification done to your car will pose a distraction to other drivers is regarded as stunting and this will earn you a ticket.
There are no specific laws against neon lights or lights under your car, but ensure that the lights are not red, blue, or flashing. The lights should not also project more than 150 meters from the vehicle’s body at night time.
3. Quebec, Canada (Not Illegal)
There are no specific laws against the use of lights under the car in Quebec, Canada, but we strictly advise against it.
Some drivers believe that it is not illegal to drive with an underglow in Quebec, but since there are no clear laws, we wouldn’t advise you to try. Most times, when the law isn’t established about a thing, interpretation might become tricky.
How to Choose and Install Underglow Lights Safely and Legally in US and Canada
If you are interested in adding some lights for under your car, here are some tips that you should consider:
1. Neon vs LED
Underglow lights can be either or LED, and each type has its pros and cons. Neon lights are brighter and more vibrant, but they are also more fragile and consume more power.
LED lights are more durable and energy-efficient, but they are also more expensive and less customizable. You should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each type and decide which one suits your needs and budget better.
2. Check the laws across different states and provinces
Before you buy and install underglow lights, you should check the local laws and regulations in your state, province, or territory. Make sure that the lights you choose are legal and compliant.
You can find reliable and updated information on the websites of government agencies or organizations that are responsible for vehicle safety and standards, such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) in the US, or Transport Canada in Canada. Don’t forget to check the laws of other states, provinces, or territories that you plan to visit or drive through with your underglow lights, to avoid any potential fines or penalties.
3. Install the lights
Installing underglow lights can be a DIY project, but it can also be challenging and risky if you are not familiar with the process. You should follow the instructions and precautions that come with the lights, and use the proper tools and products that can help with the installation.
What are the benefits of using lights for under your car?
Some benefits of using lights for under your car include;
- Enhancing the appearance and personality of your car, and make it more attractive and eye-catching.
- To improve the visibility and safety of your car at night, and make it easier for other drivers and pedestrians to see you and avoid collisions.
- Lights under your car can also create a fun and festive atmosphere for your car, and allow you to express your mood, style, or preferences with different colors and patterns
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FAQs
How long do underglow lights last?
The lifespan of underglow lights depends on several factors, such as the type, quality, and usage of the lights, and the weather, road, and driving conditions. Generally, underglow lights can last from 2 to 10 years or more, depending on how well you take care of them and how often you use them.
Conclusion on Lights for under your car
Lights under your car are a fun and stylish way to customize your car and make it more visible and safe at night. However, they can also pose some legal challenges if you are not aware of the laws and regulations that govern their use in your state, province, or territory.
In this article, we have explored the legality of underglow lights in the US and Canada and offered some tips on how to choose and install them safely and legally. Ensure that you install your lights within the requirements of the law to avoid, getting a ticket for something that should be entertaining.