Georgia Law on Colored Lights

Is It Illegal to Have Blue Lights on Your Car?

In Georgia, it is illegal to have blue lights or red lights on privately owned vehicles. Georgia law OCGA § 40-8-90 establishes restrictions against flashing, blinking, or stationary colored lights, including headlights, interior lights, underglow, or wheel well lights. There are exceptions for antique/off-road/hobby vehicles, as well as certain emergency vehicles.

Due to several public safety concerns, privately owned vehicles are not allowed to use blue or red lights. The general purpose of these laws is to misrepresent a personal vehicle as an official emergency vehicle. In particular, there are many instances of individuals posing as police officers to commit illegal acts. The specific use of colored lights also helps first responders to identify the types of vehicles at a location quickly.

Georgia Law on Colored Lights

OCGA § 40-8-90: Makes it unlawful for any person or company to operate a vehicle with devices producing blue lights (flashing, blinking, revolving, or stationary). Blue lights are for only federal, state, and law enforcement vehicles. Laws on red lights are slightly less restrictive and allow some limited use.

Red lights for vehicle interior use may not be an issue if they are discreet. Red lights are problematic if they are bright, shine out of the vehicle, or could distract other drivers.

Red and Blue Light Permit

There are vehicles, not covered by standard exemptions, that have a legitimate need for red or blue lights. Examples are: unmarked government vehicles, professional security vehicles, volunteer fire department vehicles, and EMT services. These types of vehicles must obtain an exemption (Permit) to use red or blue lights.

The Official Code of Georgia Annotated (40-8-90 through 96) prescribes the conditions of this certification. Department of Public Safety Rules and Regulations 570-11-.01 through .014 prescribe guidelines for filing a Permit Application to use colored lights.

Penalties

In Georgia, driving with red or blue lights can be a criminal offense. Depending on the circumstances, the charge could be a misdemeanor or a felony. Here is an overview of potential punishments:

• Conviction of a violation is a misdemeanor offense.
• Fines can be up to $1,000 per violation. Court fees may be added.
• Points on License: A conviction could result in 3 points on your driver’s license.
• Jail Time: A conviction of a misdemeanor could, but rarely does, include jail time.
• Felony Offense: A violation during the commission of a felony crime results in increased fines and up to one year in jail.