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There’s no denying that underglow kits give cars a sleek look – they stand out in the sea of other cars on the road. But before you purchase that underglow kit, knowing if it’s legal in your area is important. Unfortunately, not all states allow underglow kits, so checking your local laws before investing in the product is important.
In this post, we’ll cover the states that do not allow underglow kits and explain why. We’ll also provide tips for finding legal alternatives, such as tinted headlights and taillights, to give your car that unique look. So, if you’re wondering if underglow is legal in your state, read on to find out.
What Are Underglow Kits?
Underglow kits are devices designed to illuminate the underside of vehicles. They are usually installed on the bottom edges of the vehicle and can be programmed to switch colors, display patterns, and/or respond to music. An underglow kit’s purpose is aesthetic. It allows car owners to customize the look of their vehicles. Different underglow kits, such as LED strips, neon tubes, and strobe lights, are available.
Legal Issues Involved With Underglow
In the United States, the legality of using an underglow kit varies from state to state. Each state has regulations regarding vehicle lighting that must be considered when installing an underglow kit. All states require that the Department of Transportation approve vehicle lighting and meet other safety standards. However, there are states which have more stringent laws surrounding these kits.
States With Strict Laws Against Underglow
The following states have imposed strict laws that make it illegal to use an underglow kit on a vehicle:
California – California does not allow vehicles to be equipped with underglow lighting due to safety concerns. It is against the law to install and operate a device that illuminates the outside of a vehicle in any way that is unnecessary for normal operation or visibility.
Illinois – Underglow lighting is not allowed in Illinois 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).
Texas – In Texas, only certain kinds of specially approved exterior lighting devices are allowed on a vehicle. This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and fog lamps, but not underglow kits illuminating a car’s underside. It is illegal in Texas to install any device that creates an excessive light show or causes undue distractions for other drivers on the road.
States With More Relaxed Underglow Laws
The following states have laws that are more relaxed and allow for some types of underglow kits:
Indiana – In Indiana, there are no laws specifically prohibiting the use of an underglow kit as long as the DOT has approved it and it meets all other safety requirements for exterior lighting devices. However, it is important to note that some Indiana cities may have additional restrictions or regulations regarding these kits. Hence, it’s wise to check with local law enforcement before installing one.
Colorado – In Colorado, there are no specific laws prohibiting the use of an underglow kit as long as it has been approved by either the DOT or an independent testing laboratory such as CSA International or UL Verified Materials Testing Lab (VMTL). Additionally, all exterior lighting devices must comply with Colorado’s applicable city and county ordinances before they can be operated on public roads or highways.
Oregon – Oregon has no laws specifically prohibiting underglow kits as long as they meet all applicable safety requirements from DOT or another independent testing laboratory such as CSA International or UL VMTL. It should also be noted that some local municipalities may impose additional restrictions, so check with your local police department before buying and installing one on your vehicle in Oregon.
Underglow Regulations From Local Law Enforcement
When deciding whether to install an underglow kit on your car, it’s important to research your state laws and any additional regulations from your local law enforcement agency before doing so. Additionally, it’s always wise to follow all manufacturer guidelines when installing any exterior lighting device, like an underglow kit, on your car for optimal safety and performance.
Conclusion
Underglow kits can be used to customize the look of your vehicle and add extra flair. However, they are subject to different regulations depending on where you live in the United States and what type of device you select for installation purposes. Before purchasing or installing an underglow kit, check both your state regulations regarding exterior lighting devices and any additional restrictions imposed by your local law enforcement agency for optimum compliance.
