Georgia Neon Underglow Light Laws

Underglow lights might make your car look like it belongs in an issue of Import Tuner magazine, but there’s no denying that they’re an unnecessary and potentially unsafe add-on.

They can also be a safety hazard on public roads, especially at night or in bad weather conditions, when they can easily distract other drivers.

Underglow light laws are different in each U.S. state. In this article, we’ll discuss their legality in the state of Georgia.

Georgia Laws for Underglow Lights

So, is underglow legal in Georgia? Here’s everything you need to know.

Like most US states, Georgia allows underglow and other aftermarket lighting (lights installed by the owners after the car has been purchased from the manufacturer) in vehicles, provided some conditions are adhered to.

The laws for underglow lighting are outlined in Georgia’s Vehicle Code, more specifically under Title 40: Motor Vehicles and Traffic, in Part 2 Lighting Equipment of Article 1 Equipment Generally of Chapter 8 Equipment and Inspection of Motor Vehicles.

Here’s what the law has to say about underglow lighting in Georgia:

• Light type: Underbody lighting can be of two types: LED lighting and neon lighting. The state of Georgia does not expressly outlaw either, but it makes up for this with stringent color regulations.

• Size: The Georgia Vehicle Code doesn’t specifically mention underglow lighting, but states that any auxiliary light on the front of the car shouldn’t be installed higher than 42″ from the ground.

• Permitted colors: Underbody lighting in purple, red, green, or blue is banned in Georgia. Using these colors could land you with a ticket for the first time and more severe legal consequences if the offense is repeated. These colors are reserved solely for emergency and police vehicles in the state.
  • If you install underglow lighting that can change colors and the colors mentioned above are included, you could be fined if the local authorities learn of the fact, regardless of whether you use those particular lights or not.
  • All colors are defined by Standard J578 of the Society of Automotive Engineers.

• Intensity: Though there is nothing specific about the intensity of underglow lighting, it is mentioned that for fog lights. The beam shouldn’t be projected higher than four inches measured from the light’s center point. This could also apply to underbody lighting.

Are Underglow Neon Lights Legal in Georgia?

As long as you stick to the above conditions and your lights aren’t inconsistent with any other laws, underglow neon lights are perfectly legal in Georgia.

Additionally, stationary, revolving, blinking and flashing lights are banned in all vehicles except those with a permit and those leased or owned by any government body.

Such lights are prohibited on public roads, so if at all you do want to use them, you’ll have to make do with using them in your driveway or on other property that you own!

If you’re visiting a different county and have underglow lights, it’s always prudent to check what the local law says.

State of Georgia Info

Georgia is bordered by North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, the Atlantic Ocean, Alabama, and Florida. The state is known for its diverse flora, fauna, and landscapes.

Population: 3,973,574
Capital: Atlanta
Registered vehicles: 3,538,180
Total lane miles: 272,662
Number of highways: 15

Wikipedia | State Website

Underglow light law reference:

• Georgia Vehicle Code
• Society of Automotive Engineers Standard J578