Is Underglow Illegal? [BEFORE You Use]

If you’re a car enthusiast or want to add some visual flair to your ride, consider adding under glow lights. But are they legal?

Your car can really stick out from the crowd with the help of these neon or LED lights. However, before installing underglow lights on your car, it’s important to understand the laws surrounding them.

The legality of car modifications can get quite tricky for many individuals not versed in the legal tradition. Laws can get quite confusing & sometimes what’s legal in one state, is illegal in the other. Every US state is somewhat a bit unique & autonomous when it comes to their laws.

That’s where we come in. We have simplified the whole ordeal for you so you don’t have to worry. This blog will discuss the legality of underglow lights in the United States and the laws that vary by state.

Is Underglow Illegal?

In general, underglow lights are legal for decorative purposes only and should not be used while driving on public roads. The legality of underglow lights varies by state in the US.

Majority of states like California, Arizona, and Nevada allow underglow lights, but they must be a certain color and brightness and not visible from certain angles.

However, states like Texas and Virginia prohibit underglow lighting while driving on public roads. To avoid legal issues, you must check your state’s laws and regulations before installing underglow lights on your car.

Underglow Laws by State

The legality of underglow lights varies widely by state in the US. Here’s a breakdown of the underglow laws in some of the main states.

California

Underglow lights are legal but must not emit more than 0.05 candela per square inch and must not be red, blue, or flashing. They are only allowed for decorative purposes and must not be used while driving on public roads.

Also Check Is Under Glow Legal in California?

Texas

Underglow lights are illegal to use while driving on public roads. However, they are permitted for off-road use on private property.

Florida

Red, blue, or pulsating underglow lights are prohibited but not prohibited. They also can’t be observed from farther than 300 feet away.

New York

Underglow lights are illegal, and using them can result in a fine or even a misdemeanor charge. Public roadways are off-limits for using them.

Virginia

Driving with underglow lights is prohibited in most jurisdictions. The only exception is private land, where they are legal for off-road use.

Arizona

Underglow lights are legal, but they must not be red or blue, and they must not be visible from more than 500 feet away. They are only allowed for decorative purposes and must not be used while driving on public roads.

Nevada

Underglow lights are legal, but they must not be red, blue, or flashing. They must not be visible from more than 300 feet away; they are only allowed for decorative purposes and must not be used while driving on public roads.

Illinois

Georgia

Underglow lights are legal, but they must not be red or blue, and they must not be flashing. They must also not be visible from more than 300 feet away. They are only allowed for decorative purposes and must not be used while driving on public roads.

Can You Drive Around With Underglow Lights On?

In most states, it’s legal to have underglow lights on your car as long as they’re not turned on while you’re driving on public roads. You can usually use them when parked or at car shows, but once you start driving, you need to turn them off.

Can I Drive With Underglow In The USA?

Yes, you can drive with underglow lights in the United States as long as they comply with the laws in your state. You must follow the state’s guidelines and restrictions to avoid any legal consequences.

Can You Get Pulled Over For Underglow?

Yes, you can get pulled over for underglow lights. If an officer deems the underglow lights distracting or illegal, they can pull you over and issue a ticket.

Can You Have Colored Lights On Your Car?

Colored lights are illegal in most states except for specific purposes. For example, amber lights are permitted for turn signals, and white lights are for reverse lights. Some states may allow other colors, such as red or blue, for accent lighting, but it’s crucial to check your local laws and regulations before installing colored lights on your car.

What Color Lights Are Legal?

The colors of underglow lights that are legal vary by state. In general, states allow colors that are not red or blue. Green, white, and amber are the most commonly allowed colors.

What color lights are not allowed on cars?

Red and blue are typically not allowed on cars because they can be mistaken for emergency vehicles. Some states also prohibit using colors that are distracting or too bright.

Are Light Bars Illegal?

In most states, light bars are legal as long as they don’t obstruct the driver’s view or distract other drivers. Some states make drivers turn off their lights when they are on public roads..

What Color Flashing Lights Are Legal?

Only emergency vehicles can have red and blue flashing lights, in most states. Some states permit green or yellow lights for certain vehicles, such as construction or maintenance. You must check local laws and regulations to determine which flashing lights are legal for non-emergency vehicles.

Are LED Headlights Legal?

Yes, LED headlights are legal in most states, provided they meet certain requirements. The headlights should be DOT-approved and provide sufficient illumination without blinding other drivers. Additionally, the color of the LED lights should be white or amber.

Do Read Is Underglow Legal in Texas?

Is It illegal To Have Christmas Lights On Your Car?

Yes, having Christmas lights on your car while driving in most states is illegal. Christmas lights are not designed for automotive use and can distract other drivers on the road.

Are Ice Blue LED Headlights Legal?

Ice-blue LED headlights may look cool, but they are illegal in most states. Blue headlights can be confused with emergency vehicle lights and distract other road drivers. You must check local laws and regulations to determine legal headlight colors.

Are Wheel Lights Illegal?

Wheel lights are illegal in some states, as they can distract other drivers on the road.Before putting wheel lights on your car, you should check the laws and rules in your area.

Are Smoked Tail Lights Legal?

Smoked tail lights, darker than the original ones, are illegal in most states. The law requires that tail lights are visible from a certain distance, and smoked tail lights may reduce visibility, causing accidents.

Is 6000k Legal?

6000k headlights are legal in most states if they provide sufficient illumination without blinding other drivers.

Is 8000k Headlights Illegal?

8000k headlights with a blue tint are illegal in most states. Blue lights can be confused with emergency vehicle lights and can distract other drivers on the road.

Are Fog Lamps Illegal?

Fog lamps are legal in most states but must be used correctly. They should only be used in foggy or inclement weather conditions, as using them in clear weather can cause glare and blind other drivers.

Conclusion – Is Neon Underglow Illegal?

The legality of neon underglow lights depends on the state’s laws. While some states may allow them, others may prohibit them altogether or only allow them in specific circumstances. Before putting neon underglow lights on your car, you should check the laws in your state.

Most of the time, it is best to be careful and follow all laws and rules to avoid getting fines or tickets. It’s important to know the laws and regulations in your area before making any changes to your car’s lights. Doing so will ensure your safety and prevent any legal issues.

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E.A. Gjelten

A professional legal editor for various publications who uses her analytical & observational skills, coupled with her extensive experience in the field of law to articulate difficult legal topics. Has been a legal author for the last 12 years & have also worked as a journalist, professor & book editor.