Are Underglow Lights Legal in Texas?: Everything You Need to Know About Vehicle Lighting Regulations

Underglow lights—those colorful LED strips installed underneath vehicles—have become popular for car enthusiasts looking to add personality to their rides. If you’re in Texas and considering this upgrade, understanding the state’s laws is essential to avoid tickets or legal trouble. In Texas, underglow lights are not outright illegal, but their use comes with specific restrictions. The key regulations are as follows: you cannot use red, blue, or any flashing lights visible from the front of the vehicle, as these are reserved for emergency vehicles. Additionally, any lighting that may be considered a distraction or confusion to other drivers (such as excessive brightness or rotating patterns) could result in a violation. Texas law also prohibits any lamp or illumination from being red on the front or blue/red visible from any direction except the rear (where red taillights are standard). To stay compliant, stick with subdued colors like amber or white, ensure lights are not flashing, and never display them while driving on public roads unless parked or participating in a sanctioned car show.

Tips 1:

When upgrading car lighting, always consider how it interacts with your vehicle’s design. As a designer, I recommend integrating underglow lighting with clean lines and subtle hues to enhance the look without overwhelming the space. For anyone planning a home garage or workshop, using digital design tools—such as a 3D floor planner—can help you experiment with car display setups and lighting positions before making real-world changes, ensuring your upgrades look professional and comply with safety standards.

FAQ

Q: Are any colors of underglow lights legal in Texas?

A: Yes, colors such as white and amber are generally allowed as long as they are not flashing and do not mimic police or emergency lighting.

Q: Can I use red underglow on my car in Texas?

A: No, red lights visible from the front are prohibited. Red lights are only allowed on the rear of the vehicle.

Q: Are blue underglow lights legal in Texas?

A: Blue lighting is reserved for law enforcement and emergency vehicles; using blue underglow can result in fines.

Q: Can I use underglow lights while driving in Texas?

A: It depends. If the lights comply with color and flashing restrictions, they may be used, but many areas only permit them when the vehicle is parked to avoid distraction issues.

Q: How can I design a garage with safe accent lighting for my car?

A: Use digital tools to visualize layouts and incorporate both functional and decorative lighting while following local safety and code requirements.