Trucks Get Five More Years of Flashy Pulsating Brake Lights
Published Date: 11/17/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA just renewed Grote Industries’ special permission for another 5 years, letting trucks use their cool amber pulsating brake lights along with regular brake lights. This helps drivers spot braking trucks more easily, making roads safer for everyone. The new rule kicks in December 3, 2025, and runs through December 2, 2030, with no extra costs for truckers.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Exemption Renewed for Amber Brake Lamps
FMCSA renewed an exemption allowing Grote's amber brake-activated pulsating lamps to be used on the rear of trailers and van body trucks in addition to the required steady-burning brake lamps. The exemption is effective December 3, 2025 through December 2, 2030, and the Agency concluded the lamps are likely to achieve a level of safety equivalent to or greater than without the exemption.
State Laws Preempted for Exempted Carriers
During December 3, 2025 through December 2, 2030, no State may enforce laws that conflict with this FMCSA exemption for a person operating under it. States may, but are not required to, adopt the same exemption for intrastate operations.
Required Lamp Configurations and Operation
Motor carriers operating trailers and van body trucks under the exemption must install Grote's lamps only in specified configurations (for example, an upper pair centered 6–12 inches from the trailer centerline, a single lower lamp, or combinations of upper and lower pairs). The lamps must be amber and pulsate as a Class II strobe for up to four seconds when the brake is applied, then transition to steady red for the duration of the brake circuit activation, remain off when the brake circuit is inactive, and be used in addition to the required steady-burning brake lamps.
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