Are Running Board Lights Legal? Everything You Need to Know

Running board lights are an increasingly popular upgrade for truck and SUV owners. These sleek, often LED-based lighting strips illuminate the vehicle's side step area, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. But with any aftermarket lighting modification, one critical question arises: Are running board lights legal?

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the legality of running board lights, state regulations, color restrictions, safety considerations, and tips to stay compliant with the law.

What Are Running Board Lights?

Running board lights, also known as LED running board lights or rocker panel lights, are auxiliary lighting accessories mounted under the doors or on the vehicle's side steps. These lights serve several purposes:

Illuminating the ground when entering or exiting the vehicle
Enhancing nighttime visibility for pedestrians and nearby drivers
Providing a custom, modern look
Acting as additional amber running lights or strobe lights for emergency or utility vehicles

Common types include:

White LED running board lights for general illumination
Amber running lights for increased side visibility
RGB or color-changing lights for show or off-road applications
Strobe running board lights for emergency or work vehicle visibility

Are Running Board Lights Legal?

The Short Answer:

Yes—but it depends on how and where you use them.

The legality of running board lights is determined by:

Color of the lights
Whether the lights flash or strobe
When the lights are on (driving vs. parked)
State-specific vehicle lighting laws

Let’s break each one down.

1. Legal Colors for Running Board Lights

Most U.S. states restrict the color of lights that can be visible while driving. Here's a general guide:

White or Amber Lights – Usually legal on the front and sides of a vehicle
Red Lights – Typically reserved for rear of the vehicle or brake lights
Blue Lights – Restricted to law enforcement in most states
Green or Purple Lights – Usually not allowed while driving
RGB Lights (Color-Changing) – Often legal when parked, but not while driving

To stay legal while driving, choose white or amber running board lights.

Tip: For vehicles used in shows or off-road settings, RGB or other color lights can be used when parked only. Always turn them off when hitting public roads.

2. Flashing and Strobing Lights

Flashing or strobe running board lights are typically reserved for emergency or utility vehicles.

If you're driving a civilian vehicle, flashing lights can get you ticketed or even lead to your vehicle being impounded in certain states.

For first responders, security vehicles, or public works trucks, strobe lights may be allowed with proper authori

3. When Are Running Board Lights Legal to Use?

Condition	Legal Status
While parked	Generally legal (including RGB)
While driving with white/amber lights	Legal in most states
While driving with flashing/strobe lights	Restricted to authorized vehicles
While driving with non-standard colors (blue, red, green)	Usually illegal

The safest use case for all vehicle owners is to use non-flashing amber or white running board lights while driving and reserve custom colors for off-road or parked displays.

4. State-by-State Regulations

While federal regulations offer guidelines, each state has its own rules about vehicle lighting. Here's a quick look at a few states:

California

White and amber lights are allowed on the front and sides.
Blue, red, or flashing lights are restricted to emergency vehicles.
No lights may impair visibility or distract other drivers.

Texas

Running board lights are legal if they do not flash or emit prohibited colors.
Red and blue lights are not allowed on the front or sides.
Lights must not be a “distraction” or mimic emergency vehicles.

Florida

Amber side marker lights are allowed.
Blue and red lights are prohibited on civilian vehicles.
Flashing lights require special authorization.

Important: Always refer to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Highway Patrol website for the most accurate information.

Benefits of Legal Running Board Lights

When used correctly, running board lights provide real-world benefits:

Improved safety: Illuminate ground hazards like ice, puddles, or curbs
Enhanced style: Gives your truck or SUV a bold, modern look
Increased visibility: Helps other drivers see your vehicle at night or in bad weather

Work-ready lighting: Ideal for first responders or utility trucks needing extra illumination

How to Stay Legal with Your Running Board Lights

To ensure your lights are compliant:

Stick with White or Amber: These colors are legal in almost every state.
Avoid Flashing Patterns: Solid light bars or smooth fades are safer options.
Use RGB Responsibly: Save color-changing effects for car shows or off-road parks.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Install lights to illuminate the ground—not blind other drivers.
Check Local Laws: Regulations change, especially with aftermarket accessories.

Need help selecting legal lighting? Ultra Bright Lightz offers a range of DOT-approved and compliant running board light kits that meet state and federal standards.

Final Thoughts: Are Running Board Lights Worth It?

Yes—if you install them correctly and follow the law. Running board lights can greatly enhance the safety and look of your vehicle, but staying legal is key.

When in doubt, stick with non-flashing white or amber lights for road use, and save your RGB flair for showtime or trails. And of course, always shop with trusted suppliers like Ultra Bright Lightz to ensure you're getting compliant and high-quality products.