This guide explains Georgia’s vehicle light laws, including permitted colors for emergency and volunteer vehicles, flashing light restrictions, and permit requirements.
Emergency Vehicle Light Colors
-
Police
- Blue lights are permitted on officially marked law enforcement vehicles without a permit (but only on government vehicles).
- Red lights are allowed only in combinations (e.g., blue & red) per official equipment rules.
-
Fire Departments
- Red lights are permitted on clearly marked fire apparatus without a special permit.
- White and amber lights may also be used on fire vehicles, but blue is not allowed.
-
Ambulances
- Red lights are authorized for licensed ambulances without needing a permit.
- Blue lights are prohibited on ambulances.
Personal/Volunteer Response Vehicles
- Volunteer Firefighters & EMTs
- May equip personal vehicles with red warning lights (and possibly white) if they obtain a permit via Form DPS‑41, including:
- A notarized justification.
- A signed affidavit of active membership.
- Proof of completing required training.
- No fee for volunteer firefighter permits; government vehicles similarly exempt.
- May equip personal vehicles with red warning lights (and possibly white) if they obtain a permit via Form DPS‑41, including:
- Low-Speed and Utility Vehicles
- Allowed amber strobe lights without a permit, typically for low-speed maintenance use.
Amber Warning Lights (Tow, Utility, Construction)
- Amber flashing/revolving lights require a permit (until recently; as of July 1, 2024, amber no longer needs a permit).
- Vehicles using amber lights do not qualify as emergency vehicles and must not claim emergency right-of-way.
Green Light Usage
- Green flashing lights on moving vehicles are prohibited, with one exception: stationary or command post vehicles at emergency scenes—used only to mark a command center.
Permit Process for Red and Amber Lights
- Form DPS‑41 is required for red/amber permits (permit valid for 5 years).
- Required materials:
-
- Completed application (Form DPS‑41).
- Notarized statement of use.
- Evidence of active membership (for volunteers) or agency authorization.
- Training certificate.
- $2 fee (waived for government entities and volunteer firefighters).
Summary Table
| Vehicle Type | Permitted Light Colors | Permit Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Police (marked) | Blue (± red, white optional) | Not required |
| Fire Department (marked) | Red (± white, amber) | Not required |
| Ambulances | Red (± white, amber) | Not required |
| Volunteer Firefighter / EMT POV | Red (± white) | Yes (Form DPS‑41) |
| Tow, Utility, Construction Vehicles | Amber | Yes (until July 2024); Now exempt |
| Command Post Vehicles | Green (stationary only) | Permit via O.C.G.A. |
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Georgia Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
