Aftermarket lights are quite popular among car enthusiasts, and for good reason. This is especially true for underglow neon lights.
These lights are typically installed under the car’s chassis with the idea of creating a halo effect around the car. Despite the dated mid-2000s appeal, there’s no question that underglow lights look very cool.
There are many different colors and styles of underglow lights to choose from. That said, every state has its own rules about whether or not you can install these lights on your car.
These laws are imposed for safety reasons. Which brings us to the question: Is underglow legal in Minnesota? That’s what we’ll discuss in this article.
Minnesota Laws for Underglow Lights
Read on to learn more about pertinent details regarding the use of aftermarket automotive lights in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Vehicle Code governs the use of neon underglow lights under Chapter 169 of Section 169.64. Section 168.55 discusses the positioning and number of aftermarket lights and colors permitted on civilian vehicles.
- Light type: While there is no explicit reference to the legality of underglow lights, the state does prohibit the installation of ornamental vehicle lighting. Because neon underglow lights fit this category, we consider them illegal.
- Size: There is no clarity regarding the size of permitted lights in the state’s codes.
- Permitted colors: For front-mounted lighting fixtures, only two colors are permitted: Amber and white. If the light is visible from the rear, then only amber or red colors are permitted.
- Civilian vehicles are not allowed to affix red and blue lights, as they can be confused with emergency vehicles. Additionally, no flashing or strobing lights may be used.
- These permitted colors are only for the required vehicle lighting and not for underglow systems.
- Intensity: There is mention of restriction on the intensity of required vehicle lighting. It should be no more than 300 candelas with a distance visibility of 75 feet.
Are Underglow Neon Lights Legal in Minnesota?
As discussed in the above section, underglow neon lights are considered illegal in the state of Minnesota.
However, there is a slight ambiguity in the state’s vehicle codes. Based on this ambiguity, one could argue that since there is no explicit prohibition of underglow lights, you can install underglow lights as long as they are amber, white, or red.
However, it is strongly recommended that you not do so as you could face legal issues. That said, if you’re only going to use your car on a closed course, then you can install these lights without a problem.
Fines and Penalties for Driving With Underglow
As per Minnesota statutes, section 169.47, it is illegal for anyone to drive a vehicle that violates the state’s vehicle lighting laws.
Such a violation would be considered a misdemeanor.
State of Minnesota Info
A Midwestern state; Minnesota is the 32nd state to join the U.S..
It is the country’s 22nd most populous state and the 12th largest.
The abundance of gorgeous lakes in the state has earned it the moniker “Land of 10,000 Lakes”; these and the many parks and forests in the state make it a popular tourist hub.
Minnesota is among the leading states in the country when it comes to standard of living, education levels, GDP, per capita income, and other economically important metrics such as safety, employment, and governance.
Population: 5,707,390
Capital: Saint Paul
Registered vehicles: 4,847,971
Total lane miles: 290,618
Number of highways: 5
Underglow light law reference: Minnesota Legislature