No, underglow lighting is prohibited in Mexico under NOM-194-SSA1-2004 and Reglamento de Tránsito provisions, which classify such modifications as unsafe alterations to vehicle lighting systems. The Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT) enforces these rules, citing risks to road safety and interference with official signaling. Recent 2026 draft amendments to NOM-068-SCT-2-2014 (Vehicle Safety Standards) explicitly target aftermarket lighting, including underglow, as non-compliant modifications. Violations may result in fines up to 5,000 MXN or vehicle impoundment.
Key Regulations for Underglow Lighting in Mexico
- Color Restrictions: Only white or amber front lights and red rear lights are permitted; colored underglow (e.g., blue, green) is banned under NOM-194-SSA1-2004 for health and safety risks.
- Installation Bans: Underglow lighting mounted below headlights or taillights is illegal, as it conflicts with Reglamento de Tránsito Article 52, which mandates unobstructed visibility of official signals.
- Dynamic Lighting Prohibitions: Flashing, pulsating, or multi-colored underglow systems violate NOM-068-SCT-2-2014’s static-lighting requirements, with 2026 updates tightening enforcement for LED and RGB installations.
Enforcement varies by state; Mexico City’s Secretaría de Movilidad and Jalisco’s Secretaría de Transporte actively inspect vehicles during Operativos de Verificación. Imported underglow kits must comply with PROY-NOM-068-SCT-2-2026, which aligns with UNECE WP.29 regulations but excludes decorative lighting. Consult local transit authorities for jurisdiction-specific interpretations.