Interpretation ID: nht88-3.48

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 09/13/88 EST

FROM: ERIKA Z. JONES -- CHIEF COUNSEL, NHTSA

TO: ROBERT W. STUCHELL

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: LETTER DATED 4-30-88, TO MR. VINSON FROM, ROBERT W. STUCHELL, OCC-1973

TEXT: This is in reply to your letter of April 30, 1988, to Mr. Vinson of this Office as to the existence of Federal or State regulations "governing sale and/or use of lighted signs of any shape placed on the inside of the rear window of aftermarket cars. Suc h signs would not be connected with any new car purchase."

The Department of Transportation has no restriction on the sale of signs for use inside motor vehicles. Nor are there any Federal regulations that would prevent an owner from installing or using such signs. However, if the sign were of such a nature th at it is intended to be installed by a dealer or motor vehicle repair business, the installer must insure that its installation does not render inoperative in whole or in part any device installed on the vehicle pursuant to a safety standard. For exampl e, if the sign is installed on a passenger car equipped with a center highmounted stop lamp, the sign must not block the light from the lamp, or operate in a manner so as to cause confusion with it. Its installation must not affect the wiring of the oth er lighting equipment. Other safety problems such a sign might create are a partial blockage of view through a rear view mirror, or the creation of light on the rear window, resulting in glare in the rear view mirror.

We are not in a position to advise you as to the acceptability of the device under State law. You may wish to consult the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, 4600 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203 for advice.