Yes, Underglow lighting is legal in Argentina when installed on private vehicles, provided it complies with national traffic regulations and local ordinances. The Ley Nacional de Tránsito 24.449 and its amendments, enforced by the Secretaría de Transporte de la Nación, permit auxiliary lighting if it does not emit red or blue hues, which are reserved for emergency vehicles. However, municipal codes—such as those in Buenos Aires—may impose additional restrictions, particularly in urban centers where excessive lighting is prohibited to avoid visual distraction.
Key Regulations for Underglow Lighting in Argentina
- Color Restrictions: Underglow lighting must not display red, blue, or flashing colors, as these are exclusively allocated to emergency and law enforcement vehicles under Decreto 779/1995.
- Static Operation: Dynamic or pulsating underglow is prohibited nationwide, per Resolución 195/1999 of the Secretaría de Transporte, to prevent confusion with traffic signals.
- Municipal Variations: Local governments (e.g., Gobierno de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires) may require permits or ban underglow entirely in historic districts or high-traffic zones, as outlined in Ordenanza 59.920/2017.
Enforcement prioritizes visibility hazards over aesthetic modifications. Vehicles with non-compliant lighting may face fines or mandatory removal by traffic authorities (Ley 24.449, Art. 48). For 2026, the Ministerio de Transporte is reviewing draft amendments to standardize auxiliary lighting rules across provinces, aiming to curb misuse while accommodating aftermarket customization.