What lamps and reflectors are required under 49 CFR 393.11?

Short answer

The lamps and reflectors required under 49 CFR 393.11 are specified in Table 1 and include headlamps, turn signals, identification lamps, and reflex reflectors, with specific requirements for color, location, and height above the road surface.

The rule says

"Lamps and reflex reflectors. Table 1 specifies the requirements for lamps, reflective devices and associated equipment by the type of commercial motor vehicle." (49 CFR 393.11(a)(1))

"Each trailer of 2,032 mm (80 inches) or more overall width, and with a GVWR over 4,536 kg (10,000 pounds), manufactured on or after December 1, 1993, except pole trailers and trailers designed exclusively for living or office use, shall be equipped with either retroreflective sheeting that meets the requirements of FMVSS No. 108 (S5.7.1), reflex reflectors that meet the requirements FMVSS No. 108 (S5.7.2), or a combination of retroreflective sheeting and reflex reflectors that meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 108 (S5.7.3)." (49 CFR 393.11(b))

In plain English

The regulation requires commercial motor vehicles to be equipped with specific lamps and reflectors to ensure visibility and safety on the road. The requirements vary depending on the type of vehicle and its size, with larger vehicles requiring more lamps and reflectors. The regulation also specifies the color, location, and height of the lamps and reflectors, as well as the materials used for reflex reflectors. In practice, this means that vehicle owners and operators must ensure that their vehicles are properly equipped with the required lamps and reflectors, and that they are functioning properly.

What to do

• Verify that your vehicle meets the requirements specified in Table 1 of 49 CFR 393.11.
• Ensure that all required lamps and reflectors are properly installed and functioning.
• Check that the lamps and reflectors meet the specified requirements for color, location, and height above the road surface.
• Consider consulting with a regulatory expert or a qualified mechanic to ensure compliance with the regulation.