California Neon Underglow Lights Laws
Neon or more popularly called underglow lights are very popular among car enthusiasts looking to improve their car’s appearance. Though safety issues are less talked about with underglow lights, most car (or even motorcycle or truck) owners attach neon lights to their vehicles simply for aesthetics.
Most states restrict color or luminosity or neon lights attached to the car, among other things. Enthusiast drivers can sometimes take things too far, so to ensure other drivers don’t get distracted by overly flashy vehicles there is legislation to prevent various modifications. For neon underglow, most of these laws are found under “Unlawful vehicle modifications” and “Lighting requirements”.
In the state of California (CA), neon underglow lights are legal to use, but with some crucial restrictions you must be aware of. Below you can find the basic overview of guidelines pertaining to neon car lights in California.
Light emission
California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allows LED lights which emit a diffused non-glaring light which is less than 0.05 candela per square inch (1 candela is essentially equal to the light emitted from one candle). When buying your underglow, check the luminosity to make sure your neon glow lights are within California DMV standards.
Size and position
There are several other restrictions on size and position of neon lights attached to your vehicle:
- Lights must not replace or disrupt any of your vehicle’s required existing lights (such as tail lights, break lights, turn signals, or headlights).
- Neon lights must not be installed within 12 inches of any required light, lamp, reflector or other required device on your vehicle.
- The size of the underglow must not be larger than 720 square inches, unless your vehicle is authorized to display signs.
- Additionally, internally illuminated sign in your vehicle is permitted if it’s less than 0.25 candela per square inch, must not contain a white background, and may only be displayed on each side but not on front or rear of your car.
Restricted colors
According to California underglow laws your vehicle may not display red color at the front of vehicles. Most states restrict colors such as blue or red to avoid confusion with police vehicles, but in California you can use any colors for the underglow (other than red restriction on the front of your car).
Flashing lights are not specifically forbidden, but it’s always best to avoid using them. Flashing lights can distract other drivers or be mistaken for a police vehicle. Impersonating a police vehicle (even if unintentional) is a felony with more serious consequences.
Penalties
Illegal underglow system can result in a traffic citation for a non-moving traffic violation. If you get caught, you will be required to modify your car to conform to standards, as well as pay a fine.
Learn more:
- California Underglow Laws
- California Vehicle Code, Division 12 (Equipment of Vehicles), Chapter 2 (Lightning Equipment)
- California Vehicle Code, Division 12 (Equipment of Vehicles), Chapter 2 (Lightning Equipment), Article 10: Diffused Lights