backup light a mandatory requirement?

pcoghlan · #1 (**permalink**) 03-14-2009, 05:00 AM

My car did not come with a backup/reversing light. Does anyone know whether this is a legal requirement in the state of Florida? A link to what is actually required would be great. I have spent the last while searching but cannot find anything.

Ok, of out to work through my list of 37(!) things to get done before Sebring...

Many thanks,
Paul

rtstrack · #2 (**permalink**) 03-14-2009, 05:03 AM

No idea about Florida, but in NY it is required. My car did not come with one either, but some how the inspector always seems to "miss" it :-)

mln385 · #3 (**permalink**) 03-14-2009, 05:16 AM

In Ma. it is a requirement but like stated above depends on the inspection station you go to as well as the inspector.

For the $10.00 for the light I put one on and velcro'd it to the fuel tank for easy removal. The Backdrafts already have the wiring harness there for it so the rest was easy.

Marc

patrickt · #4 (**permalink**) 03-14-2009, 05:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pcoghlan

My car did not come with a backup/reversing light. Does anyone know whether this is a legal requirement in the state of Florida?

Check the lamps and lenses and REJECT IF ...
d) The back-up lamps do not turn off automatically when vehicle goes forward, there is no indicator on dash that lights or there is no audible warning signal, if so equipped.

BUT, I would argue that an earlier provision was controlling...

Check the lamps and lenses and REJECT IF one or more of the following apply:
a) An exterior bulb or sealed beam, if originally equipped or installed, fails to light properly.

Just go in, be very friendly, and act as if you're 100% sure of what you're doing and that back-up lights are not necessary on this car. Assure them that you are right and they are wrong. You'll proably win.

Source: http://www.ppd.ufl.edu/pdf/Inspection_Manual.pdf