{"formats":[{"name":"JSON","format":"json","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-json\/46.2-1025.json"},{"name":"Plain Text","format":"text","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-text\/46.2-1025.txt"},{"name":"XML","format":"xml","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-xml\/46.2-1025.xml"},{"name":"HTML","format":"html","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-html\/46.2-1025.html"}],"law_id":61251,"edition_id":1,"section_id":61251,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1025","catch_line":"Flashing amber, purple, or green warning lights","history":"Code 1950, \u00a7 46-273; 1954, c. 310; 1958, c. 541, \u00a7 46.1-267; 1960, cc. 156, 391; 1962, c. 512; 1966, cc. 655, 664; 1968, c. 89; 1972, c. 7; 1974, c. 537; 1976, c. 6; 1977, c. 72; 1978, cc. 311, 357; 1980, c. 337; 1981, c. 338; 1984, cc. 440, 539; 1985, cc. 248, 269, 287, 462; 1986, cc. 124, 127, 229; 1987, cc. 347, 370; 1988, cc. 339, 351; 1989, c. 727; 1991, c. 465; 1992, cc. 93, 410, 805; 1995, c. 727; 1997, c. 149; 1998, cc. 134, 417; 1999, cc. 18, 72, 232; 2000, cc. 84, 121, 278; 2003, c. 93; 2005, c. 574; 2010, c. 127; 2011, c. 268; 2014, c. 54; 2015, cc. 41, 502, 503; 2016, cc. 198, 226; 2017, cc. 326, 333; 2019, cc. 112, 145; 2023, c. 613; 2024, c. 95; 2025, c. 82.","full_text":"A\n\nThe following vehicles may be equipped with flashing, blinking, or alternating amber warning lights of types approved by the Superintendent:1\n\nVehicles used for the principal purpose of towing or servicing disabled vehicles;2\n\nVehicles used in constructing, maintaining, and repairing highways or utilities on or along public highways, or in assisting with the management of roadside and traffic incidents, or performing traffic management services along public highways;3\n\nVehicles used for the principal purpose of removing hazardous or polluting substances from state waters and drainage areas on or along public highways, or state vehicles used to perform other state-required environmental activities, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;4\n\nVehicles used for servicing automatic teller machines, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;5\n\nVehicles used in refuse collection, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicles are engaged in refuse collection operations;6\n\nVehicles used by individuals for emergency snow-removal purposes;7\n\nHi-rail vehicles, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicles are operated on railroad rails;8\n\nFire apparatus and emergency medical services vehicles, provided the amber lights are used in addition to lights permitted under § 46.2-1023 and are so mounted or installed as to be visible from behind the vehicle;9\n\nVehicles owned and used by businesses providing security services, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway;10\n\nVehicles used to collect and deliver the United States mail, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is actually engaged in such collection or delivery;11\n\nVehicles used to collect and deliver packages weighing less than 150 pounds by a national package delivery company that delivers such packages in all 50 states, provided that the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is stopped and its operator is engaged in such collection and delivery;12\n\nVehicles used to transport petroleum or propane products, provided the amber light is mounted on the rear of the vehicle and is lit when parked while making a delivery of petroleum or propane products, or when the vehicle’s back-up lights are lit and its device producing an audible signal when the vehicle is operated in reverse gear, as provided for in § 46.2-1175.1, is in operation;13\n\nVehicles used by law-enforcement agency personnel in the enforcement of laws governing motor vehicle parking;14\n\nGovernment-owned law-enforcement vehicles, provided the lights are used for the purpose of giving directional warning to vehicular traffic to move one direction or another and are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;15\n\nChase vehicles when used to unload a hot air balloon or used to load a hot air balloon after landing, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;16\n\nVehicles used for farm, agricultural, or horticultural purposes, or any farm tractor;17\n\nVehicles owned and used by construction companies operating under Virginia contractors licenses;18\n\nVehicles used to lead or provide escorts for bicycle races authorized by the Department of Transportation or the locality in which the race is being conducted;19\n\nVehicles used by radio or television stations for remote broadcasts, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;20\n\nVehicles used by municipal safety officers in the performance of their official duties. For the purpose of this subdivision, “municipal safety officers” means municipal employees responsible for managing municipal safety programs and ensuring municipal compliance with safety and environmental regulatory mandates;21\n\nVehicles used as pace cars, security vehicles, or firefighting vehicles by any speedway or motor vehicle race track, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway;22\n\nVehicles used in patrol work by members of neighborhood watch groups approved by the chief law-enforcement officer of the locality in their assigned neighborhood watch program area, provided that the vehicles are clearly identified as neighborhood watch vehicles, and the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;23\n\nVehicles that are not tow trucks as defined in § 46.2-100, but are owned or controlled by a towing and recovery business, provided that the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is being used at a towing and recovery site;24\n\nVehicles used or operated by federally licensed amateur radio operators (i) while participating in emergency communications or drills on behalf of federal, state, or local authorities or (ii) while providing communications services to localities for public service events authorized by the Department of Transportation where the event is being conducted;25\n\nPublicly owned or operated transit buses;26\n\nVehicles used for hauling trees, logs, or any other forest products when hauling such products, provided that the amber lights are mounted or installed so as to be visible from behind the vehicle;27\n\nVehicles authorized to use amber lights pursuant to § 46.2-1025.1; and28\n\nVehicles used by a local department of social services to respond to a request for assistance from law-enforcement agency personnel.B\n\nExcept as otherwise provided in this section, such amber lights shall be lit only when performing the functions which qualify them to be equipped with such lights.C\n\nVehicles used to lead or provide escorts for funeral processions may use either amber warning lights or purple warning lights, but amber warning lights and purple warning lights shall not simultaneously be used on the same vehicle. The Superintendent of State Police shall develop standards and specifications for purple lights authorized in this subsection.D\n\nVehicles used by police, firefighting, or emergency medical services personnel as command centers at the scene of incidents may be equipped with and use green warning lights of a type approved by the Superintendent. Such lights shall not be activated while the vehicle is operating upon the highway.","order_by":null,"text":{"0":{"id":223819,"text":"The following vehicles may be equipped with flashing, blinking, or alternating amber warning lights of types approved by the Superintendent:","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"next_prefix":"A1"},"1":{"id":223820,"text":"Vehicles used for the principal purpose of towing or servicing disabled vehicles;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","1"],"prefix":"1","entire_prefix":"A1","prefix_anchor":"A1","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"A2"},"2":{"id":223821,"text":"Vehicles used in constructing, maintaining, and repairing highways or utilities on or along public highways, or in assisting with the management of roadside and traffic incidents, or performing traffic management services along public highways;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","2"],"prefix":"2","entire_prefix":"A2","prefix_anchor":"A2","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A1","next_prefix":"A3"},"3":{"id":223822,"text":"Vehicles used for the principal purpose of removing hazardous or polluting substances from state waters and drainage areas on or along public highways, or state vehicles used to perform other state-required environmental activities, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","3"],"prefix":"3","entire_prefix":"A3","prefix_anchor":"A3","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A2","next_prefix":"A4"},"4":{"id":223823,"text":"Vehicles used for servicing automatic teller machines, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","4"],"prefix":"4","entire_prefix":"A4","prefix_anchor":"A4","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A3","next_prefix":"A5"},"5":{"id":223824,"text":"Vehicles used in refuse collection, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicles are engaged in refuse collection operations;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","5"],"prefix":"5","entire_prefix":"A5","prefix_anchor":"A5","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A4","next_prefix":"A6"},"6":{"id":223825,"text":"Vehicles used by individuals for emergency snow-removal purposes;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","6"],"prefix":"6","entire_prefix":"A6","prefix_anchor":"A6","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A5","next_prefix":"A7"},"7":{"id":223826,"text":"Hi-rail vehicles, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicles are operated on railroad rails;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","7"],"prefix":"7","entire_prefix":"A7","prefix_anchor":"A7","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A6","next_prefix":"A8"},"8":{"id":223827,"text":"Fire apparatus and emergency medical services vehicles, provided the amber lights are used in addition to lights permitted under § 46.2-1023 and are so mounted or installed as to be visible from behind the vehicle;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","8"],"prefix":"8","entire_prefix":"A8","prefix_anchor":"A8","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A7","next_prefix":"A9"},"9":{"id":223828,"text":"Vehicles owned and used by businesses providing security services, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","9"],"prefix":"9","entire_prefix":"A9","prefix_anchor":"A9","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A8","next_prefix":"A10"},"10":{"id":223829,"text":"Vehicles used to collect and deliver the United States mail, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is actually engaged in such collection or delivery;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","10"],"prefix":"10","entire_prefix":"A10","prefix_anchor":"A10","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A9","next_prefix":"A11"},"11":{"id":223830,"text":"Vehicles used to collect and deliver packages weighing less than 150 pounds by a national package delivery company that delivers such packages in all 50 states, provided that the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is stopped and its operator is engaged in such collection and delivery;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","11"],"prefix":"11","entire_prefix":"A11","prefix_anchor":"A11","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A10","next_prefix":"A12"},"12":{"id":223831,"text":"Vehicles used to transport petroleum or propane products, provided the amber light is mounted on the rear of the vehicle and is lit when parked while making a delivery of petroleum or propane products, or when the vehicle’s back-up lights are lit and its device producing an audible signal when the vehicle is operated in reverse gear, as provided for in § 46.2-1175.1, is in operation;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","12"],"prefix":"12","entire_prefix":"A12","prefix_anchor":"A12","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A11","next_prefix":"A13"},"13":{"id":223832,"text":"Vehicles used by law-enforcement agency personnel in the enforcement of laws governing motor vehicle parking;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","13"],"prefix":"13","entire_prefix":"A13","prefix_anchor":"A13","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A12","next_prefix":"A14"},"14":{"id":223833,"text":"Government-owned law-enforcement vehicles, provided the lights are used for the purpose of giving directional warning to vehicular traffic to move one direction or another and are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","14"],"prefix":"14","entire_prefix":"A14","prefix_anchor":"A14","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A13","next_prefix":"A15"},"15":{"id":223834,"text":"Chase vehicles when used to unload a hot air balloon or used to load a hot air balloon after landing, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","15"],"prefix":"15","entire_prefix":"A15","prefix_anchor":"A15","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A14","next_prefix":"A16"},"16":{"id":223835,"text":"Vehicles used for farm, agricultural, or horticultural purposes, or any farm tractor;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","16"],"prefix":"16","entire_prefix":"A16","prefix_anchor":"A16","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A15","next_prefix":"A17"},"17":{"id":223836,"text":"Vehicles owned and used by construction companies operating under Virginia contractors licenses;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","17"],"prefix":"17","entire_prefix":"A17","prefix_anchor":"A17","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A16","next_prefix":"A18"},"18":{"id":223837,"text":"Vehicles used to lead or provide escorts for bicycle races authorized by the Department of Transportation or the locality in which the race is being conducted;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","18"],"prefix":"18","entire_prefix":"A18","prefix_anchor":"A18","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A17","next_prefix":"A19"},"19":{"id":223838,"text":"Vehicles used by radio or television stations for remote broadcasts, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","19"],"prefix":"19","entire_prefix":"A19","prefix_anchor":"A19","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A18","next_prefix":"A20"},"20":{"id":223839,"text":"Vehicles used by municipal safety officers in the performance of their official duties. For the purpose of this subdivision, “municipal safety officers” means municipal employees responsible for managing municipal safety programs and ensuring municipal compliance with safety and environmental regulatory mandates;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","20"],"prefix":"20","entire_prefix":"A20","prefix_anchor":"A20","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A19","next_prefix":"A21"},"21":{"id":223840,"text":"Vehicles used as pace cars, security vehicles, or firefighting vehicles by any speedway or motor vehicle race track, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","21"],"prefix":"21","entire_prefix":"A21","prefix_anchor":"A21","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A20","next_prefix":"A22"},"22":{"id":223841,"text":"Vehicles used in patrol work by members of neighborhood watch groups approved by the chief law-enforcement officer of the locality in their assigned neighborhood watch program area, provided that the vehicles are clearly identified as neighborhood watch vehicles, and the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","22"],"prefix":"22","entire_prefix":"A22","prefix_anchor":"A22","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A21","next_prefix":"A23"},"23":{"id":223842,"text":"Vehicles that are not tow trucks as defined in § 46.2-100, but are owned or controlled by a towing and recovery business, provided that the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is being used at a towing and recovery site;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","23"],"prefix":"23","entire_prefix":"A23","prefix_anchor":"A23","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A22","next_prefix":"A24"},"24":{"id":223843,"text":"Vehicles used or operated by federally licensed amateur radio operators (i) while participating in emergency communications or drills on behalf of federal, state, or local authorities or (ii) while providing communications services to localities for public service events authorized by the Department of Transportation where the event is being conducted;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","24"],"prefix":"24","entire_prefix":"A24","prefix_anchor":"A24","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A23","next_prefix":"A25"},"25":{"id":223844,"text":"Publicly owned or operated transit buses;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","25"],"prefix":"25","entire_prefix":"A25","prefix_anchor":"A25","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A24","next_prefix":"A26"},"26":{"id":223845,"text":"Vehicles used for hauling trees, logs, or any other forest products when hauling such products, provided that the amber lights are mounted or installed so as to be visible from behind the vehicle;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","26"],"prefix":"26","entire_prefix":"A26","prefix_anchor":"A26","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A25","next_prefix":"A27"},"27":{"id":223846,"text":"Vehicles authorized to use amber lights pursuant to § 46.2-1025.1; and","type":"section","prefixes":["A","27"],"prefix":"27","entire_prefix":"A27","prefix_anchor":"A27","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A26","next_prefix":"A28"},"28":{"id":223847,"text":"Vehicles used by a local department of social services to respond to a request for assistance from law-enforcement agency personnel.","type":"section","prefixes":["A","28"],"prefix":"28","entire_prefix":"A28","prefix_anchor":"A28","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A27","next_prefix":"B"},"29":{"id":223848,"text":"Except as otherwise provided in this section, such amber lights shall be lit only when performing the functions which qualify them to be equipped with such lights.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A28","next_prefix":"C"},"30":{"id":223849,"text":"Vehicles used to lead or provide escorts for funeral processions may use either amber warning lights or purple warning lights, but amber warning lights and purple warning lights shall not simultaneously be used on the same vehicle. The Superintendent of State Police shall develop standards and specifications for purple lights authorized in this subsection.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"D"},"31":{"id":223850,"text":"Vehicles used by police, firefighting, or emergency medical services personnel as command centers at the scene of incidents may be equipped with and use green warning lights of a type approved by the Superintendent. Such lights shall not be activated while the vehicle is operating upon the highway.","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C"}},"ancestry":[{"id":13233,"edition_id":1,"name":"Lights and Turn Signals","identifier":"3","label":"article","depth":4,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12828,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:44:29","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:44:29","permalink":{"id":229409,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":13233,"identifier":"3","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3","url":"\/46.2\/III\/10\/3\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12828,"edition_id":1,"name":"Motor Vehicle and Equipment Safety","identifier":"10","label":"chapter","depth":3,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12827,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:55","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:55","permalink":{"id":228599,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12828,"identifier":"10","token":"46.2\/III\/10","url":"\/46.2\/III\/10\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12827,"edition_id":1,"name":"Operation","identifier":"III","label":"subtitle","depth":2,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12770,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:55","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:55","permalink":{"id":228597,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12827,"identifier":"III","token":"46.2\/III","url":"\/46.2\/III\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12770,"edition_id":1,"name":"Motor Vehicles","identifier":"46.2","label":"title","depth":1,"order_by":1,"parent_id":null,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:52","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:52","permalink":{"id":225289,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12770,"identifier":"46.2","token":"46.2","url":"\/46.2\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}}],"structure_contents":[{"id":86642,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1010","catch_line":"Equipment required","url":"\/46.2-1010\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1010","metadata":false},{"id":54889,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1011","catch_line":"Headlights on motor vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1011\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1011","metadata":false},{"id":54238,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1012","catch_line":"Headlights, auxiliary headlights, tail lights, brake lights, auxiliary lights, and illumination of license plates on motorcycles or autocycles","url":"\/46.2-1012\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1012","metadata":false},{"id":82249,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1013","catch_line":"Tail lights","url":"\/46.2-1013\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1013","metadata":false},{"id":55516,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1014","catch_line":"Brake lights","url":"\/46.2-1014\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1014","metadata":false},{"id":85762,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1014.1","catch_line":"Supplemental high mount stop light","url":"\/46.2-1014.1\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1014.1","metadata":false},{"id":70500,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1015","catch_line":"Lights on bicycles, electric personal assistive mobility devices, personal delivery devices, electric power-assisted bicycles, mopeds, and motorized skateboards or scooters","url":"\/46.2-1015\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1015","metadata":false},{"id":64768,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1016","catch_line":"Lights on other vehicles; reflectors","url":"\/46.2-1016\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1016","metadata":false},{"id":58032,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1017","catch_line":"Dimension or marker lights and reflectors, generally","url":"\/46.2-1017\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1017","metadata":false},{"id":68583,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1018","catch_line":"Marker lights on vehicles or loads exceeding thirty-five feet","url":"\/46.2-1018\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1018","metadata":false},{"id":74725,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1019","catch_line":"Spotlights","url":"\/46.2-1019\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1019","metadata":false},{"id":83551,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1020","catch_line":"Other permissible lights","url":"\/46.2-1020\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1020","metadata":false},{"id":66212,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1021","catch_line":"Additional lights permitted on certain commercial vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1021\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1021","metadata":false},{"id":78667,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1021.1","catch_line":"Additional lights permitted on certain privately owned cars","url":"\/46.2-1021.1\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1021.1","metadata":false},{"id":60736,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1022","catch_line":"Flashing or steady-burning blue or red, flashing red and blue or blue and white, or red, white, and blue warning lights","url":"\/46.2-1022\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1022","metadata":false},{"id":78077,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1023","catch_line":"Flashing red or red and white warning lights","url":"\/46.2-1023\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1023","metadata":false},{"id":68894,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1024","catch_line":"Flashing or steady-burning red or red and white warning light units","url":"\/46.2-1024\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1024","metadata":false},{"id":61251,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1025","catch_line":"Flashing amber, purple, or green warning lights","url":"\/46.2-1025\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1025","metadata":false},{"id":69248,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1025.1","catch_line":"Flashing amber warning lights on certain fox hunting vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1025.1\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1025.1","metadata":false},{"id":79262,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1026","catch_line":"Flashing high-intensity amber warning lights","url":"\/46.2-1026\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1026","metadata":false},{"id":76532,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1027","catch_line":"Warning lights on certain demonstrator vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1027\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1027","metadata":false},{"id":85600,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1028","catch_line":"Auxiliary lights on firefighting, Virginia Department of Transportation, and other emergency vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1028\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1028","metadata":false},{"id":77393,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1028.1","catch_line":"Illuminated identification systems on certain emergency vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1028.1\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1028.1","metadata":false},{"id":63456,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1028.2","catch_line":"Auxiliary lights on public utility vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1028.2\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1028.2","metadata":false},{"id":70664,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1029","catch_line":"Auxiliary lights on law-enforcement vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1029\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1029","metadata":false},{"id":84510,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1029.1","catch_line":"Flashing of headlights on certain vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1029.1\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1029.1","metadata":false},{"id":72396,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1029.2","catch_line":"Certain vehicles may be equipped with secondary warning lights","url":"\/46.2-1029.2\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1029.2","metadata":false},{"id":74584,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1030","catch_line":"When lights to be lighted; number of lights to be lighted at any time; use of warning lights","url":"\/46.2-1030\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1030","metadata":false},{"id":61103,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1031","catch_line":"Requirements as to single-beam head lights","url":"\/46.2-1031\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1031","metadata":false},{"id":65624,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1032","catch_line":"Requirements as to multiple-beam headlights","url":"\/46.2-1032\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1032","metadata":false},{"id":54466,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1033","catch_line":"Indicator light required","url":"\/46.2-1033\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1033","metadata":false},{"id":73407,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1034","catch_line":"When dimming headlights required","url":"\/46.2-1034\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1034","metadata":false},{"id":75546,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1035","catch_line":"Dimming headlights on parked vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1035\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1035","metadata":false},{"id":62842,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1036","catch_line":"Acetylene lights on antique motor vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1036\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1036","metadata":false},{"id":81417,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1037","catch_line":"Lights on parked vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1037\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1037","metadata":false},{"id":80603,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1038","catch_line":"When turn signals required; exceptions","url":"\/46.2-1038\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1038","metadata":false},{"id":68552,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1039","catch_line":"Requirements of turn signals; regulations","url":"\/46.2-1039\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1039","metadata":false},{"id":77922,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1040","catch_line":"Hazard lights","url":"\/46.2-1040\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1040","metadata":false}],"previous_section":{"id":68894,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1024","catch_line":"Flashing or steady-burning red or red and white warning light units","url":"\/46.2-1024\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1024","metadata":false},"next_section":{"id":69248,"structure_id":13233,"section_number":"46.2-1025.1","catch_line":"Flashing amber warning lights on certain fox hunting vehicles","url":"\/46.2-1025.1\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1025.1","metadata":false},"metadata":false,"official_url":"https:\/\/law.lis.virginia.gov\/vacode\/46.2-1025\/","history_text":"

The record of this law\u2019s original creation isn\u2019t available online. It has been modified 38 times. Those modifications are cataloged by \u201cThe Acts of Assembly,\u201d a state publication, by year and chapter. Those modifications that can be read on the General Assembly\u2019s website will be linked accordingly. Those modifications are as follows: in 1954, chapter 310; in 1958, chapter 541; in 1960, chapters 156 and 391; in 1962, chapter 512; in 1966, chapters 655 and 664; in 1968, chapter 89; in 1972, chapter 7; in 1974, chapter 537; in 1976, chapter 6; in 1977, chapter 72; in 1978, chapters 311 and 357; in 1980, chapter 337; in 1981, chapter 338; in 1984, chapters 440 and 539; in 1985, chapters 248, 269, 287, and 462; in 1986, chapters 124, 127, and 229; in 1987, chapters 347 and 370; in 1988, chapters 339 and 351; in 1989, chapter 727; in 1991, chapter 465; in 1992, chapters 93, 410, and 805; in 1995, chapter 727<\/a>; in 1997, chapter 149<\/a>; in 1998, chapters 134<\/a> and 417<\/a>; in 1999, chapters 18<\/a>, 72<\/a>, and 232<\/a>; in 2000, chapters 84<\/a>, 121<\/a>, and 278<\/a>; in 2003, chapter 93<\/a>; in 2005, chapter 574<\/a>; in 2010, chapter 127<\/a>; in 2011, chapter 268<\/a>; in 2014, chapter 54<\/a>; in 2015, chapters 41<\/a>, 502<\/a>, and 503<\/a>; in 2016, chapters 198<\/a> and 226<\/a>; in 2017, chapters 326<\/a> and 333<\/a>; in 2019, chapters 112<\/a> and 145<\/a>; in 2023, chapter 613<\/a>; in 2024, chapter 95<\/a>; in 2025, chapter 82<\/a>.<\/p>","references":[{"id":61082,"section_number":"46.2-1102","catch_line":"Size and weight limitations inapplicable to farm machinery, agricultural multipurpose drying units, and firefighting equipment; amber warning lights","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-1102\/"},{"id":78142,"section_number":"46.2-111","catch_line":"Flares and other signals relating to stopped commercial motor vehicles","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-111\/"},{"id":75279,"section_number":"46.2-828.1","catch_line":"Impeding or disrupting certain funeral processions; penalty","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-828.1\/"},{"id":55642,"section_number":"46.2-838","catch_line":"Passing when overtaking a vehicle","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-838\/"},{"id":55489,"section_number":"46.2-861.1","catch_line":"Drivers to yield right-of-way or reduce speed when approaching stationary vehicles displaying certain warning lights on highways; penalties","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-861.1\/"},{"id":72582,"section_number":"46.2-920.1:1","catch_line":"Portable changeable message signs; certain vehicles","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-920.1_1\/"}],"refers_to":[{"id":82691,"section_number":"46.2-100","catch_line":"Definitions","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-100\/"},{"id":78077,"section_number":"46.2-1023","catch_line":"Flashing red or red and white warning lights","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-1023\/"},{"id":69248,"section_number":"46.2-1025.1","catch_line":"Flashing amber warning lights on certain fox hunting vehicles","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-1025.1\/"},{"id":85908,"section_number":"46.2-1175.1","catch_line":"Inspection of certain refuse collection and highway maintenance vehicles","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-1175.1\/"}],"permalink":{"id":229479,"object_type":"law","relational_id":61251,"identifier":"46.2-1025","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1025","url":"\/46.2-1025\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1},"url":"\/46.2-1025\/","token":"46.2\/III\/10\/3\/46.2-1025","dublin_core":{"Title":"Flashing amber, purple, or green warning lights","Type":"Text","Format":"text\/html","Identifier":"\u00a7 46.2-1025","Relation":"Code of Virginia"},"html":"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> The following vehicles<\/span> may be equipped with flashing, blinking, or alternating amber warning lights<\/span> of types approved by the Superintendent<\/span>: <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

1.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used for the principal purpose of towing or servicing disabled vehicles<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

2.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used in constructing, maintaining, and repairing highways<\/span><\/span> or utilities on or along public highways<\/span><\/span>, or in assisting with the management of roadside and traffic incidents, or performing traffic management services along public highways<\/span><\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

3.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used for the principal purpose of removing hazardous or polluting substances from state waters and drainage areas on or along public highways<\/span><\/span>, or state vehicles<\/span> used to perform other state-required environmental activities, provided that the amber lights<\/span> are not lit while the vehicle<\/span> is in motion<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

4.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used for servicing automatic teller machines, provided the amber lights<\/span> are not lit while the vehicle<\/span> is in motion<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

5.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used in refuse collection, provided the amber lights<\/span> are lit only when the vehicles<\/span> are engaged in refuse collection operations; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

6.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used by individuals for emergency snow-removal purposes; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

7.<\/span> Hi-rail vehicles<\/span>, provided the amber lights<\/span> are lit only when the vehicles<\/span> are operated on railroad rails; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

8.<\/span> Fire apparatus and emergency medical services vehicles<\/span>, provided the amber lights<\/span> are used in addition to lights<\/span> permitted under § 46.2-1023<\/a> and are so mounted or installed as to be visible from behind the vehicle<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

9.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> owned and used by businesses providing security services, provided the amber lights<\/span> are not lit while the vehicle<\/span> is being operated on a public highway<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

10.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used to collect and deliver the United States mail, provided the amber lights<\/span> are lit only when the vehicle<\/span> is actually engaged in such collection or delivery; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

11.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used to collect and deliver packages weighing less than 150 pounds by a national package delivery company that delivers such packages in all 50 states, provided that the amber lights<\/span> are lit only when the vehicle<\/span> is stopped and its operator<\/span> is engaged in such collection and delivery; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

12.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used to transport petroleum or propane products, provided the amber light<\/span> is mounted on the rear of the vehicle<\/span> and is lit when parked while making a delivery of petroleum or propane products, or when the vehicle<\/span>’s back-up lights<\/span> are lit and its device producing an audible signal when the vehicle<\/span> is operated in reverse<\/span> gear, as provided for in § 46.2-1175.1<\/a>, is in operation; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

13.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used by law<\/span>-enforcement agency personnel in the enforcement of laws<\/span> governing motor vehicle<\/span> parking; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

14.<\/span> Government-owned law<\/span>-enforcement vehicles<\/span>, provided the lights<\/span> are used for the purpose of giving directional warning to vehicular traffic to move one direction or another and are not lit while the vehicle is in motion<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

15.<\/span> Chase vehicles<\/span> when used to unload a hot air balloon or used to load a hot air balloon after landing, provided the amber lights<\/span> are not lit while the vehicle is in motion<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

16.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used for farm, agricultural, or horticultural purposes, or any farm tractor<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

17.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> owned and used by construction companies operating under Virginia contractors licenses; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

18.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used to lead or provide escorts for bicycle<\/span> races authorized by the Department<\/span> of Transportation or the locality in which the race is being conducted; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

19.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used by radio or television stations for remote broadcasts, provided that the amber lights<\/span> are not lit while the vehicle is in motion<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

20.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used by municipal safety officers<\/span> in the performance of their official duties. For the purpose of this subdivision, “municipal safety officers<\/span>” means municipal employees responsible for managing municipal safety programs and ensuring municipal compliance with safety and environmental regulatory mandates<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

21.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used as pace cars, security vehicles<\/span>, or firefighting vehicles<\/span> by any speedway or motor vehicle<\/span> race track, provided that the amber lights<\/span> are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

22.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used in patrol work by members of neighborhood watch groups approved by the chief law<\/span>-enforcement officer<\/span> of the locality in their assigned neighborhood watch program area, provided that the vehicles<\/span> are clearly identified as neighborhood watch vehicles<\/span>, and the amber lights<\/span> are not lit while the vehicle is in motion<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

23.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> that are not tow trucks<\/span> as defined in § 46.2-100<\/a>, but are owned or controlled by a towing and recovery business, provided that the amber lights<\/span> are lit only when the vehicle is being used at a towing and recovery site; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

24.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used or operated by federally licensed amateur radio operators<\/span> (i) while participating in emergency communications or drills on behalf of federal, state, or local authorities or (ii) while providing communications services to localities for public service events authorized by the Department<\/span> of Transportation where the event is being conducted; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

25.<\/span> Publicly owned or operated transit buses; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

26.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used for hauling trees, logs, or any other forest products when hauling such products, provided that the amber lights<\/span> are mounted or installed so as to be visible from behind the vehicle; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

27.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> authorized to use amber lights<\/span> pursuant to § 46.2-1025.1<\/a>; and <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

28.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used by a local department<\/span> of social services to respond to a request for assistance from law<\/span>-enforcement agency personnel. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> Except as otherwise provided in this section, such amber lights<\/span> shall be lit only when performing the functions which qualify them to be equipped with such lights<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used to lead or provide escorts for funeral processions may use either amber warning lights<\/span> or purple warning lights<\/span>, but amber warning lights<\/span> and purple warning lights<\/span> shall not simultaneously be used on the same vehicle. The Superintendent<\/span> of State Police shall develop standards and specifications for purple lights<\/span> authorized in this subsection. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

D.<\/span> Vehicles<\/span> used by police, firefighting, or emergency medical services personnel as command centers at the scene of incidents may be equipped with and use green warning lights<\/span> of a type approved by the Superintendent<\/span>. Such lights<\/span> shall not be activated while the vehicle is operating upon the highway<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>","plain_text":" CODE OF VIRGINIA\n\nFLASHING AMBER, PURPLE, OR GREEN WARNING LIGHTS (\u00a7 46.2-1025)\n\nA. The following vehicles may be equipped with flashing, blinking, or\nalternating amber warning lights of types approved by the Superintendent:\n\n 1. Vehicles used for the principal purpose of towing or servicing disabled\n vehicles;\n\n 2. Vehicles used in constructing, maintaining, and repairing highways or\n utilities on or along public highways, or in assisting with the management of\n roadside and traffic incidents, or performing traffic management services\n along public highways;\n\n 3. Vehicles used for the principal purpose of removing hazardous or polluting\n substances from state waters and drainage areas on or along public highways,\n or state vehicles used to perform other state-required environmental\n activities, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in\n motion;\n\n 4. Vehicles used for servicing automatic teller machines, provided the amber\n lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;\n\n 5. Vehicles used in refuse collection, provided the amber lights are lit only\n when the vehicles are engaged in refuse collection operations;\n\n 6. Vehicles used by individuals for emergency snow-removal purposes;\n\n 7. Hi-rail vehicles, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicles\n are operated on railroad rails;\n\n 8. Fire apparatus and emergency medical services vehicles, provided the amber\n lights are used in addition to lights permitted under § 46.2-1023 and are\n so mounted or installed as to be visible from behind the vehicle;\n\n 9. Vehicles owned and used by businesses providing security services, provided\n the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public\n highway;\n\n 10. Vehicles used to collect and deliver the United States mail, provided the\n amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is actually engaged in such\n collection or delivery;\n\n 11. Vehicles used to collect and deliver packages weighing less than 150\n pounds by a national package delivery company that delivers such packages in\n all 50 states, provided that the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is\n stopped and its operator is engaged in such collection and delivery;\n\n 12. Vehicles used to transport petroleum or propane products, provided the\n amber light is mounted on the rear of the vehicle and is lit when parked while\n making a delivery of petroleum or propane products, or when the\n vehicle’s back-up lights are lit and its device producing an audible\n signal when the vehicle is operated in reverse gear, as provided for in §\n 46.2-1175.1, is in operation;\n\n 13. Vehicles used by law-enforcement agency personnel in the enforcement of\n laws governing motor vehicle parking;\n\n 14. Government-owned law-enforcement vehicles, provided the lights are used\n for the purpose of giving directional warning to vehicular traffic to move one\n direction or another and are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;\n\n 15. Chase vehicles when used to unload a hot air balloon or used to load a hot\n air balloon after landing, provided the amber lights are not lit while the\n vehicle is in motion;\n\n 16. Vehicles used for farm, agricultural, or horticultural purposes, or any\n farm tractor;\n\n 17. Vehicles owned and used by construction companies operating under Virginia\n contractors licenses;\n\n 18. Vehicles used to lead or provide escorts for bicycle races authorized by\n the Department of Transportation or the locality in which the race is being\n conducted;\n\n 19. Vehicles used by radio or television stations for remote broadcasts,\n provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;\n\n 20. Vehicles used by municipal safety officers in the performance of their\n official duties. For the purpose of this subdivision, “municipal safety\n officers” means municipal employees responsible for managing municipal\n safety programs and ensuring municipal compliance with safety and\n environmental regulatory mandates;\n\n 21. Vehicles used as pace cars, security vehicles, or firefighting vehicles by\n any speedway or motor vehicle race track, provided that the amber lights are\n not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway;\n\n 22. Vehicles used in patrol work by members of neighborhood watch groups\n approved by the chief law-enforcement officer of the locality in their\n assigned neighborhood watch program area, provided that the vehicles are\n clearly identified as neighborhood watch vehicles, and the amber lights are\n not lit while the vehicle is in motion;\n\n 23. Vehicles that are not tow trucks as defined in § 46.2-100, but are\n owned or controlled by a towing and recovery business, provided that the amber\n lights are lit only when the vehicle is being used at a towing and recovery\n site;\n\n 24. Vehicles used or operated by federally licensed amateur radio operators\n (i) while participating in emergency communications or drills on behalf of\n federal, state, or local authorities or (ii) while providing communications\n services to localities for public service events authorized by the Department\n of Transportation where the event is being conducted;\n\n 25. Publicly owned or operated transit buses;\n\n 26. Vehicles used for hauling trees, logs, or any other forest products when\n hauling such products, provided that the amber lights are mounted or installed\n so as to be visible from behind the vehicle;\n\n 27. Vehicles authorized to use amber lights pursuant to § 46.2-1025.1;\n and\n\n 28. Vehicles used by a local department of social services to respond to a\n request for assistance from law-enforcement agency personnel.\n\nB. Except as otherwise provided in this section, such amber lights shall be lit\nonly when performing the functions which qualify them to be equipped with such\nlights.\n\nC. Vehicles used to lead or provide escorts for funeral processions may use\neither amber warning lights or purple warning lights, but amber warning lights\nand purple warning lights shall not simultaneously be used on the same vehicle.\nThe Superintendent of State Police shall develop standards and specifications\nfor purple lights authorized in this subsection.\n\nD. Vehicles used by police, firefighting, or emergency medical services\npersonnel as command centers at the scene of incidents may be equipped with and\nuse green warning lights of a type approved by the Superintendent. Such lights\nshall not be activated while the vehicle is operating upon the highway.\n\nHISTORY: Code 1950, \u00a7 46-273; 1954, c. 310; 1958, c. 541, \u00a7 46.1-267; 1960,\ncc. 156, 391; 1962, c. 512; 1966, cc. 655, 664; 1968, c. 89; 1972, c. 7; 1974,\nc. 537; 1976, c. 6; 1977, c. 72; 1978, cc. 311, 357; 1980, c. 337; 1981, c. 338;\n1984, cc. 440, 539; 1985, cc. 248, 269, 287, 462; 1986, cc. 124, 127, 229; 1987,\ncc. 347, 370; 1988, cc. 339, 351; 1989, c. 727; 1991, c. 465; 1992, cc. 93, 410,\n805; 1995, c. 727; 1997, c. 149; 1998, cc. 134, 417; 1999, cc. 18, 72, 232;\n2000, cc. 84, 121, 278; 2003, c. 93; 2005, c. 574; 2010, c. 127; 2011, c. 268;\n2014, c. 54; 2015, cc. 41, 502, 503; 2016, cc. 198, 226; 2017, cc. 326, 333;\n2019, cc. 112, 145; 2023, c. 613; 2024, c. 95; 2025, c. 82.","edition":{"id":1,"name":"2025","slug":"2025","date_created":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","date_modified":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","current":1,"order_by":1,"last_import":null}}