Is it required per DOT regulations that you have a 3rd brake light?

 

I would imagine it would...just check out your state MV Acts.

 

Here in California, If you have one it is required to maintain it in working order. You can remove it and it will be ok.

It is only required to have 2 working break lights.

 

Equipment laws are governed by states, so check your local regulations.

 

Even if they aren't required, there are so many affordable alternatives to the stock 3rd brake light it make sense to put one back on if you need to remove the OEM version because of a larger spare tire.

I'm running an ORO LED plate lite that had 3 LEDS for the brake light plus an HID light to light up the license plate.

Just the plate light illuminated...



The LED brake light plus the plate light....

 

I asked the question to a few of my 5-0 buddies here in NYS. Only 2 break lights are required.

However, check with your local regulations.

 

I'm using the Expo 1 rear carrier and a Thule bike rack so I can't use the center hub light kit. Also, because of how it mounts to the tail gate I can't use a Teraflex kit to raise the light either. I might just have to break down and get those little insert ones that go in the lug nutt holes.

This Expo 1 tire carrier is beefy but man, I wish I'd designed the thing. There's a ton of stuff wrong and inconvient about it. Oh well.

 

Here in missouri you only need two if you have a 3rd it must be in working order but you can remove it and still be legal

 

The 3rd brake light is a federally mandated option. I believe it was mandated in legislation signed by President Ronald Reagan back in the 80's.

Although your state may not require it, if your vehicle came with it from the factory you are required to maintain it on the vehicle.

I'm sure if you remove it and are in a rear end collision with out it, the insurance company will show you the law requiring it. I'm not sure what your liability would be for removing a federally mandated safety feature.

Just something to think about before your remove the 3rd light.

 

Yeah, I always thought that if your vehicle came with one, you need to have one on.