Illinois regulates the use of all lighting systems on vehicles operated on public roads under the Illinois Vehicle Code. The code governs the use of any additional lighting, use of auxiliary driving lamps, and the use of oscillating or flashing lights on both public and private vehicles.
Lighting beyond the basic stop, turn and license lights is governed by 625 ILCS 5/12-209 (Illinois Compiled Statutes). The code forbids any vehicle from being equipped with more than two side cowl or fender lamps that emit amber or white light. Vehicles are also allowed one running board courtesy lamp.
Under 625 ILCS 5/12-212, no vehicle is allowed to display a red light that is visible from the front of the vehicle. In addition, red, white or blue flashing or oscillating lights are prohibited under 625 ILCS 5/12-215.
All other lighting combinations are also prohibited under 625 ILC 5/12-212(c), which provides a catch-all in Illinois for the prohibition of any combination or use of lighting that is not in compliance with the code.
General violation of the lighting provisions is a petty offense subject to a fine that varies based upon county, but typically ranges from $30 to $150.
Use of red, white or blue oscillating or flashing lights is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year incarceration and up to $2,500 in fines. Any person who uses prohibited lights and stops, or attempts to stop or detains another person is guilty of a Class 2 felony, which is punishable by between three and seven years incarceration and up to $25,000 in fines.
Under 625 ILCS 5/12-208, antique vehicles that display an antique vehicle plate are exempted from the requirement for red and amber stoplights on the rear of the vehicle or turn signals, unless such equipment was installed as original equipment from the manufacturer.
