DOT Lighting Requirements for Trucks: What You Need To Know

With many commercial truckers driving at night or in low-light conditions, a reliable lighting system is paramount to road safety for the driver and others on the road. Yet, with massive trucks hauling various commodities of various shapes and sizes, basic headlights and taillights aren't enough to maximize visibility. That explains why the U.S. Department of Transportation has commercial vehicle lighting rules motor carriers must follow.

To learn the DOT lighting requirements for trucks, how to file for DOT permits, and what you need for an FMCSA compliance checklist, look no further than FMCA Filings. As a filing service for the trucking industry, we know what it takes to comply with federal and state regulations. Keep reading to learn about DOT truck lighting standards. 

What Are the DOT Vehicle Lighting Requirements for Visibility?

The general standard for trailers is the same as for non-commercial vehicles; all cars and trucks on the road must maintain 500-foot visibility. Additional guidelines for trailers include:

• Dual license plate lights in white
• Two rear stop lights in red
• Side marker lights in amber at the front and rear corners of the trailer
• Reflectors on every corner
• Two turn signal lights in amber
• A clearance light on both sides of the trailer

Nothing should obstruct any light or reflector, whether by design or payload. Everything must be visible and bright enough to see within 500 feet of the truck from the front and the back. 

Do the DOT Truck Lighting Standards Include Clearance Lamps, Rear Lights, and Other Trailer Lights?

The DOT lighting requirements for trucks specify the need for red rear lights on both sides of the trailer. The lights and their placement help other drivers gauge the size of the trailer in dark or foggy conditions. 

Other mandated safety features for trailers over 80 inches or six and a half feet in width include side markers and reflectors. Though the side marker lights must be amber, the reflectors along the sides and back of the truck can be white or red. Unlike the lamps, reflectors must have a minimum visibility distance of 50 feet. 

All lights for turn signaling and braking in the back of trucks should be 15 to 72 inches from the ground, depending on the size of the trailer. Any signal lights that blink should flash between 60 to 120 times a minute. 

Clearance lights indicate an oversized trailer with a broad width to other drivers. According to DOT truck lighting standards, these lamps can be amber or red. Their positioning should be 12 to 60 inches from the ground, yet they can't be too close to tail lights. 

What Are the FMCSA Lighting Regulations for Extra Wide Trailers?

DOT vehicle lighting requirements state that extra-wide trucks must have two extra stop and turn signal lights on both sides. The height requirements are the same as standard braking and turning signal lamps, but the extra lights should be no more than three feet apart. 

What Can You Expect During a Lighting System Inspection?

Since lighting systems are one of the most important safety features for commercial trucks, the DOT requires annual lighting system inspections for commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds. Truck lighting inspection guidelines include assessments of the following features:

• Turn signals
• Brake lighting
• License plate lamps
• Fog lights
• Headlights
• Marker lights

To get the best score, every light and reflector on your truck must be fully operational and meet all color and positioning requirements. If the DOT inspector finds too many problems, you could fail the lighting system inspection, which could result in downtime for your trucking business and a hefty fine. 

How Can You Keep Your Truck Lighting System in Good Condition?

Routine vehicle maintenance that includes an in-depth inspection of your truck lights before each trip is the best way to ensure your vehicle can pass DOT light system inspections. You can also use the following tips to ensure the integrity and longevity of your lights:

• Check Electrical Systems: Each spring, you should assess the housing and wiring for your truck's lights to look for signs of wear or corrosion. 
• Invest in LED Bulbs: Despite a higher upfront cost, LED lights have outstanding longevity and energy efficiency, which can lower your vehicle's power demand. 
• Make Sure All Reflectors Are Accurate: At a minimum, reflectors should be half the length of your truck with even spacing.

Maintain Truck Lighting Compliance With FMCA Filings

Knowing the DOT lighting requirements for trucks, along with inspection, vehicle maintenance, and decal requirements, is a must if you want a thriving trucking business. We at FMCA Filings make it easier to get the information and administrative help you need to comply with all DOT regulations. 

We provide all the tools you need on our portal. Nevertheless, you can contact the FMCA Filings team online through our contact form or live chat option.