Is smoked tail light illegal?
In many jurisdictions, smoked tail lights are illegal or restricted because they can reduce brightness or obscure the required red color. The rules vary widely by country, state, and province, so you should check the specific regulations where you drive. This article outlines the general landscape, how to check local laws, and legal alternatives to achieve a similar appearance without risking compliance.
How legality is determined
Tail lights must meet standards for color, brightness, and visibility. Modifications that darken the lenses, obscure the red hue, or reduce brightness below required levels commonly run afoul of regulations. Enforcement can hinge on how well the lights perform in low-light conditions and from various viewing angles.
Regional differences
United States
In the United States, tail light requirements are enforced at the state level and are influenced by federal standards (FMVSS 108) for lighting. Most states require tail lights to emit red light, be clearly visible at night and from specific distances, and not be dimmed beyond certain limits. Modifications that significantly reduce brightness or shift color—such as smoked or tinted tail lights—are commonly illegal. Some states permit aftermarket lenses that are DOT-compliant and maintain required brightness; others ban any non-original darkened lenses. Always check your state's motor vehicle code or DMV for the exact rules and permissible variations. Penalties can include fines, mandatory removal of the modification, and failed safety inspections.
Canada
Canada follows federal standards for headlights and taillights, but enforcement is provincial. Generally, taillights must emit red, provide adequate brightness, and be clearly visible. Modifications that darken or obscure lighting may be illegal and can result in tickets or failed inspections. Some provinces allow certain aftermarket lenses that are ECE- or CMVSS-compliant, but rules vary by province and are regularly updated. If in doubt, contact the provincial transportation department.
United Kingdom and Europe
In the UK and the European Union, taillights must comply with ECE regulations and be clearly visible in red when lit. Any tinting or smoked film that reduces brightness or alters color can render the vehicle non-compliant. Vehicle inspections (MOT in the UK) may fail a vehicle with non-certified modifications. In many European countries, aftermarket smoked tail lights are illegal unless they are certified and comply with the relevant ECE standards and meet brightness requirements.
Safer, legal options if you want a smoked look
There are safer and legally compliant ways to achieve a smoked appearance without violating tail light regulations. Consider these options.
- Use DOT- or ECE-approved smoked tail light assemblies from reputable manufacturers that maintain required brightness and color, and are designed to fit your vehicle.
- Apply legally approved tinted films or overlays that are explicitly rated for automotive taillights and do not significantly reduce brightness; ensure installation does not cover the light diffuser or LED elements.
- Keep factory taillight housings but install blacked-out housings that still emit red light and comply with standards, or use replacement lenses that provide the desired look while preserving visibility.
- Obtain a professional installation and have the lights tested for brightness and color compliance, and check with local authorities if any certification is required for modifications.
Concluding: Always verify that any modification preserves proper brightness, red color, and visibility, and complies with local laws. If in doubt, revert to stock lighting or seek official certification.
Enforcement and penalties
Enforcement varies by jurisdiction. Some regions treat non-compliant taillights as a roadside defect or equipment violation, potentially resulting in fines, repair orders, or failed inspections. Replacing or removing non-compliant lighting may be required to pass safety checks. Always carry documentation from manufacturers or inspectors if you pursue aftermarket solutions, and consult local authorities for the most current regulations before modifying.
Summary
The legality of smoked tail lights is not universal. In many places, modifications that reduce brightness or alter the required red color are likely illegal, while some jurisdictions permit compliant aftermarket options. To stay compliant, verify local laws, use only DOT- or ECE-approved components, and ensure any installation preserves visibility from all required angles. When in doubt, consult your DMV or equivalent authority and consider OEM-style or certified aftermarket solutions.
Can I get a ticket for tinted tail lights?
Altering the color of tail lights is usually unlawful because it may confuse the drivers behind you. For example, if you altered their color to blue, drivers may misjudge the gap between your cars because the red signal they're used to is absent.
Is it illegal to smoke taillights?
Color of Emitted Light: Must Be Red, No Exceptions
Federal law is crystal clear on this: light emitted from tail lights and brake lights must be red. While the lens itself can have a dark, smoked appearance, the light that shines through it must not be distorted.
Do cops care about tinted tail lights?
Smoked (for the most part) will be okay as the lense itself is tinted like the back windows of most vehicles, still allows sufficent amount of light through and doesnt cause any major risks. While a 5% tinted ones who fail to admit next to nothing, is a road hazard and if found you will most likely be pulled over.
Are Recon smoked tail lights legal?
Blacked-out tail lights are illegal in all 50 states. If you can't see anything through your tail lights, and you can't see your turn signal when it's turned on, your tinted tail lights are illegal. This is for safety purposes.
