reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter I. Provisions Relating to Brake Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.408. Performance Requirements for Brakes

Sec. 547.408.  PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR BRAKES.  (a)  A motor vehicle or combination of vehicles shall be equipped with service brakes capable of:
(1)  developing a braking force that is not less than:
(A)  52.8 percent of the gross weight of the vehicle for a passenger vehicle; or
(B)  43.5 percent of the gross weight of the vehicle for a vehicle other than a passenger vehicle;
(2)  decelerating to a stop from 20 miles per hour or less at not less than:
(A)  17 feet per second per second for a passenger vehicle; or
(B)  14 feet per second per second for other vehicles; and
(3)  stopping from a speed of 20 miles per hour in a distance, measured from the location where the service brake pedal or control is activated, of not more than:
(A)  25 feet for a passenger vehicle;
(B)  30 feet for a motorcycle, moped, or single unit vehicle with a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less;
(C)  40 feet for:
(i)  a single unit vehicle with a manufacturer's gross weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds;
(ii)  a two-axle towing vehicle and trailer combination with a weight of 3,000 pounds or less;
(iii)  a bus that does not have a manufacturer's gross weight rating; and
(iv)  the combination of vehicles in an operation exempted by Section 547.407(b); and
(D)  50 feet for other vehicles.
(b)  A test for deceleration or stopping distance shall be performed on a dry, smooth, hard surface that:
(1)  is free of loose material;  and
(2)  does not exceed plus or minus one percent grade.
(c)  In this section, "passenger vehicle" means a vehicle that has a maximum seating capacity of 10 persons, including the operator, and that does not have a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 882 (H.B. 3171), Sec. 2.13, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.501. Audible Warning Devices

Sec. 547.501.  AUDIBLE WARNING DEVICES.  (a)  A motor vehicle shall be equipped with a horn in good working condition that emits a sound audible under normal conditions at a distance of at least 200 feet.
(b)  A vehicle may not be equipped with and a person may not use on a vehicle a siren, whistle, or bell unless the vehicle is:
(1)  a commercial vehicle that is equipped with a theft alarm signal device arranged so that the device cannot be used as an ordinary warning signal;  or
(2)  an authorized emergency vehicle that is equipped with a siren, whistle, or bell that complies with Section 547.702.
(c)  A motor vehicle operator shall use a horn to provide audible warning only when necessary to insure safe operation.
(d)  A warning device, including a horn, may not emit an unreasonably loud or harsh sound or a whistle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.502. Visible Warning Devices Required

Sec. 547.502.  VISIBLE WARNING DEVICES REQUIRED.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person who operates, outside an urban district or on a divided highway, a truck, bus, or truck-tractor or a motor vehicle towing a house trailer shall carry in the vehicle:
(1)  at daytime:
(A)  at least two red flags at least 12 inches square;  and
(B)  standards to support the flags;  and
(2)  at nighttime:
(A)  at least three flares and at least three red-burning fusees;
(B)  at least three red electric lanterns;  or
(C)  at least three portable red emergency reflectors.
(b)  A person who operates an explosive cargo vehicle at nighttime:
(1)  shall carry in the vehicle three red electric lanterns or three portable red emergency reflectors;  and
(2)  may not carry in the vehicle a flare, fusee, or signal produced by flame.
(c)  A flare, electric lantern, or portable reflector must be visible and distinguishable at a distance of at least 600 feet at night under normal atmospheric conditions.
(d)  A portable reflector unit must be designed and constructed to reflect a red light clearly visible at all distances from 100 to 600 feet under normal atmospheric conditions at night when directly in front of lawful lower beams of headlamps.
(e)  A flare, fusee, electric lantern, portable reflector, or warning flag must be a type approved by the department.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.503. Display of Hazard Lamps

Sec. 547.503.  DISPLAY OF HAZARD LAMPS.  (a)  The operator of a vehicle that is described by Subsection (b) and that is stopped on a roadway or shoulder shall immediately display vehicular hazard warning lamps that comply with Section 547.331, unless the vehicle:
(1)  is parked lawfully in an urban district;
(2)  is stopped lawfully to receive or discharge a passenger;
(3)  is stopped to avoid conflict with other traffic;
(4)  is stopped to comply with a direction of a police officer or an official traffic-control device;  or
(5)  displays other warning devices as required by Sections 547.504-547.507.
(b)  This section applies to a truck, bus, truck-tractor, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer at least 80 inches wide or at least 30 feet long.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.504. Display of Devices When Lighted Lamps Required

Sec. 547.504.  DISPLAY OF DEVICES WHEN LIGHTED LAMPS REQUIRED.  (a)  Unless sufficient light exists to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of 1,000 feet, the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle shall display warning devices that comply with the requirements of Section 547.502:
(1)  when lighted lamps are required;  and
(2)  under the conditions stated in this section.
(b)  Except as provided by Section 547.506 and Subsection (d), the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is disabled, or stopped for more than 10 minutes, on a roadway outside an urban district shall:
(1)  immediately place a lighted red electric lantern or a portable red emergency reflector at the traffic side of the vehicle in the direction of the nearest approaching traffic;  and
(2)  place in the following order and as soon as practicable within 15 minutes one lighted red electric lamp or portable red emergency reflector:
(A)  in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle toward approaching traffic approximately 100 feet from the vehicle;  and
(B)  in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle in the opposite direction approximately 100 feet from the vehicle.
(c)  Except as provided by Section 547.506 and Subsection (d), the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is disabled, or stopped for more than 10 minutes, on a roadway of a divided highway shall place the warning devices described by Subsection (b):
(1)  in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle toward approaching traffic approximately 200 feet from the vehicle;
(2)  in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle toward approaching traffic approximately 100 feet from the vehicle;  and
(3)  at the traffic side approximately 10 feet from the vehicle in the direction of the nearest approaching traffic.
(d)  As an alternative to the use of electric lamps or red reflectors and except as provided by Subsection (e), the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) may display a lighted fusee to comply with the requirements of Subsection (b)(1) or liquid-burning flares to comply with the requirements of Subsections (b)(2) and (c).  If the operator uses liquid-burning flares to comply with Subsection (b)(2), the operator shall also, after complying with Subsection (b)(2)(B), place a liquid-burning flare at the traffic side of the vehicle at least 10 feet in the direction of the nearest approaching traffic.  If a fusee is used to comply with Subsection (b)(1), the operator shall comply with Subsection (b)(2) within the burning period of the fusee.
(e)  The operator of an explosive cargo vehicle may not display as a warning device a flare, fusee, or signal produced by flame.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.505. Display of Devices When Lighted Lamps Are Not Required

Sec. 547.505.  DISPLAY OF DEVICES WHEN LIGHTED LAMPS ARE NOT REQUIRED.  (a)  The operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is disabled, or stopped for more than 10 minutes, on a roadway outside an urban district or on a roadway of a divided highway when lighted lamps are not required shall display two red flags that comply with Section 547.502.
(b)  If traffic on the roadway moves in two directions, one flag shall be placed approximately 100 feet to the rear and one approximately 100 feet ahead of the vehicle in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle.
(c)  If traffic on the roadway moves in one direction, one flag shall be placed approximately 100 feet and one approximately 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.506. Display of Devices: Vehicles Off Roadway

Sec. 547.506.  DISPLAY OF DEVICES:  VEHICLES OFF ROADWAY.  The operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is stopped entirely on the shoulder at a time and in a place referred to in this subchapter shall place required warning devices on the shoulder as close as practicable to the edge of the roadway.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.507. Display of Devices When View of Vehicle Obstructed

Sec. 547.507.  DISPLAY OF DEVICES WHEN VIEW OF VEHICLE OBSTRUCTED.  Unless sufficient light exists to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of 1,000 feet, the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is disabled, or stopped for more than 10 minutes, within 500 feet of a curve, hillcrest, or other obstruction to view shall place the required warning device for the direction of the obstruction from 100 to 500 feet from the vehicle so as to provide ample warning to other traffic.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter J. Provisions Relating to Warning Device Requirements on Vehicles › Section 547.508. Offense Relating to Warning Devices

Sec. 547.508.  OFFENSE RELATING TO WARNING DEVICES.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person may not remove, damage, destroy, misplace, or extinguish a warning device required under Sections 547.502-547.507 when the device is being displayed or used as required.
(b)  This section does not apply to:
(1)  an owner of a vehicle or the owner's authorized agent or employee;  or
(2)  a peace officer acting in an official capacity.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.601. Safety Belts Required

Text of section effective until January 01, 2025
Sec. 547.601.  SAFETY BELTS REQUIRED.  A motor vehicle required by Chapter 548 to be inspected shall be equipped with front safety belts if safety belt anchorages were part of the manufacturer's original equipment on the vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 851 (H.B. 3297), Sec. 10, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.601. Safety Belts Required

Text of section effective on January 01, 2025
Sec. 547.601.  SAFETY BELTS REQUIRED.  A motor vehicle shall be equipped with:
(1)  front safety belts if safety belt anchorages were part of the manufacturer's original equipment on the vehicle; or
(2)  for a motor vehicle that is an assembled vehicle, as defined by Section 731.001, front safety belts in vehicles that contain safety belt anchorages.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 851 (H.B. 3297), Sec. 10, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.602. Mirrors Required

Sec. 547.602.  MIRRORS REQUIRED.  A motor vehicle, including a motor vehicle used to tow another vehicle, shall be equipped with a mirror located to reflect to the operator a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet from the rear of the vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.603. Windshield Wipers Required

Sec. 547.603.  WINDSHIELD WIPERS REQUIRED.  A motor vehicle shall be equipped with a device that is operated or controlled by the operator of the vehicle and that cleans moisture from the windshield.  The device shall be maintained in good working condition.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.604. Muffler Required

Sec. 547.604.  MUFFLER REQUIRED.  (a)  A motor vehicle shall be equipped with a muffler in good working condition that continually operates to prevent excessive or unusual noise.
(b)  A person may not use a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar device on a motor vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.605. Emission Systems Required

Sec. 547.605.  EMISSION SYSTEMS REQUIRED.  (a)  The engine and power mechanism of a motor vehicle shall be equipped and adjusted to prevent the escape of excessive smoke or fumes.
(b)  A motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine, of a model year after 1967, shall be equipped to prevent the discharge of crankcase emissions into the ambient atmosphere.
(c)  The owner or operator of a motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine, of a model year after 1967, that is equipped with an exhaust emission system:
(1)  shall maintain the system in good working condition;
(2)  shall use the system when the motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine is operated;  and
(3)  may not remove the system or a part of the system or intentionally make the system inoperable in this state, unless the owner or operator removes the system or part to install another system or part intended to be equally effective in reducing atmospheric emissions.
(d)  Except when travel conditions require the downshifting or use of lower gears to maintain reasonable momentum, a person commits an offense if the person operates, or as an owner knowingly permits another person to operate, a vehicle that emits:
(1)  visible smoke for 10 seconds or longer;  or
(2)  visible smoke that remains suspended in the air for 10 seconds or longer before fully dissipating.
(e)  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $1 and not more than $350 for each violation.  If a person has previously been convicted of an offense under this section, an offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $200 and not more than $1,000 for each violation.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1075, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.606. Safety Guards or Flaps Required

Sec. 547.606.  SAFETY GUARDS OR FLAPS REQUIRED.  (a)  A road tractor, truck, trailer, truck-tractor in combination with a semitrailer, or semitrailer in combination with a towing vehicle that has at least four tires or at least two super single tires on the rearmost axle of the vehicle or the rearmost vehicle in the combination shall be equipped with safety guards or flaps that:
(1)  are of a type prescribed by the department; and
(2)  are located and suspended behind the rearmost wheels of the vehicle or the rearmost vehicle in the combination within eight inches of the surface of the highway.
(b)  This section does not apply to a truck-tractor operated alone or a pole trailer.
(c)  In this section, "super single tire" means a wide-base, single tire that may be used in place of two standard tires on the same axle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 752 (H.B. 1330), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.607. Fire Extinguisher Required

Sec. 547.607.  FIRE EXTINGUISHER REQUIRED.  A school bus or a motor vehicle that transports passengers for hire or lease shall be equipped with at least one quart of chemical-type fire extinguisher in good condition and located for immediate use.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.608. Safety Glazing Material Required

Sec. 547.608.  SAFETY GLAZING MATERIAL REQUIRED.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person who sells or registers a new passenger-type motor vehicle, including a passenger bus and school bus, shall equip the vehicle doors, windows, and windshield with safety glazing material of a type approved by the department.
(b)  The requirements of Subsection (a) do not apply to a glazing material in a compartment of a truck, including a truck-tractor, that is not designed and equipped for a person to ride in.
(c)  A person may not replace or require the replacement of glass in a door, window, or windshield of any motor vehicle if the replacement is not made with safety glazing material.
(d)  A person who sells or attaches to a motor vehicle a camper manufactured or assembled after January 1, 1972, shall equip the camper doors and windows with safety glazing material of a type approved by the department.  In this subsection "camper" means a structure designed to:
(1)  be loaded on or attached to a motor vehicle;  and
(2)  provide temporary living quarters for recreation, travel, or other use.
(e)  A person who sells imperfect safety glass for a door, window, or windshield of a motor vehicle shall:
(1)  label the glass "second," "imperfect," or by a similar term in red letters at least one inch in size to indicate to the consumer the quality of the glass;
(2)  orally notify the consumer of each imperfection and the possible result of using imperfect glass;  and
(3)  deliver written notice at the time of purchase notifying the consumer of each imperfection and the possible result of using imperfect glass.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.609. Required Label for Sunscreening Devices

Sec. 547.609.  REQUIRED LABEL FOR  SUNSCREENING DEVICES.  A sunscreening device must have a label that:
(1)  is legible;
(2)  contains information required by the department on light transmission and luminous reflectance of the device;
(3)  if the device is placed on or attached to a windshield or a side or rear window, states that the light transmission of the device is consistent with Section 547.613(b)(1) or (2), as applicable; and
(4)  is permanently installed between the material and the surface to which the material is applied.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 750 (S.B. 589), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.610. Safe Air-Conditioning Equipment Required; Sale of Noncomplying Vehicle

Sec. 547.610.  SAFE AIR-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT REQUIRED;  SALE OF NONCOMPLYING VEHICLE.  (a)  Air-conditioning equipment:
(1)  shall be manufactured, installed, and maintained to ensure the safety of the vehicle occupants and the public; and
(2)  may not contain any refrigerant that is flammable or is toxic to persons unless the refrigerant is included in the list published by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as a safe alternative motor vehicle air conditioning substitute for chlorofluorocarbon-12, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. Section 7671k(c).
(b)  A person may not possess or offer for sale, sell, or equip a motor vehicle with air-conditioning equipment that does not comply with the requirements of this section and Section 547.103.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 282 (S.B. 2019), Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.611. Use of Certain Video Equipment and Television Receivers

Sec. 547.611.  USE OF CERTAIN VIDEO EQUIPMENT AND TELEVISION RECEIVERS.  (a)  A motor vehicle may be equipped with video receiving equipment, including a television, a digital video disc player, a videocassette player, or similar equipment, only if the equipment is located so that the video display is not visible from the operator's seat unless the vehicle's transmission is in park or the vehicle's parking brake is applied.
(b)  A motor vehicle specially designed as a mobile unit used by a licensed television station may have video receiving equipment located so that the video display is visible from the operator's side, but the receiver may be used only when the vehicle is stopped.
(c)  This section does not prohibit the use of:
(1)  equipment used:
(A)  exclusively for receiving digital information for commercial purposes;
(B)  exclusively for a safety or law enforcement purpose, if each installation is approved by the department;
(C)  in a remote television transmission truck;  or
(D)  exclusively for monitoring the performance of equipment installed on a vehicle used for safety purposes in connection with the operations of a natural gas, water, or electric utility;  or
(2)  a monitoring device that:
(A)  produces an electronic display;  and
(B)  is used exclusively in conjunction with a mobile navigation system installed in the vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.117(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 942 (H.B. 3832), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.612. Restrictions on Use and Sale of Tires

Sec. 547.612.  RESTRICTIONS ON USE AND SALE OF TIRES.  (a)  A solid rubber tire used on a vehicle must have rubber on the traction surface that extends above the edge of the flange of the periphery.
(b)  A person may not operate or move a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer that has a metal tire in contact with the roadway, unless:
(1)  the vehicle is a farm wagon or farm trailer that has a gross weight of less than 5,000 pounds;  and
(2)  the owner is transporting farm products to market, for processing, or from farm to farm.
(c)  A tire used on a moving vehicle may not have on its periphery a block, stud, flange, cleat, or spike or other protuberance of a material other than rubber that projects beyond the tread of the traction surface, unless the protuberance:
(1)  does not injure the highway;  or
(2)  is a tire chain of reasonable proportion that is used as required for safety because of a condition that might cause the vehicle to skid.
(d)  The Texas Transportation Commission and a local authority within its jurisdiction may issue a special permit that authorizes a person to operate a tractor or traction engine that has movable tracks with transverse corrugations on the periphery or a farm tractor or other farm machinery.
(e)  A person commits an offense if the person offers for sale or sells a private passenger automobile tire that is regrooved.  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $500 or more than $2,000.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.614. Restrictions on Airbags

Sec. 547.614.  RESTRICTIONS ON AIRBAGS.  (a)  In this section, "counterfeit airbag" means an airbag that does not meet all applicable federal safety regulations for an airbag designed to be installed in a vehicle of a particular make, model, and year.
(a-1)  A person commits an offense if the person knowingly:
(1)  installs or purports to install an airbag in a vehicle;  and
(2)  does not install an airbag or installs a counterfeit airbag.
(a-2)  A person commits an offense if the person:
(1)  makes or sells a counterfeit airbag to be installed in a motor vehicle;
(2)  intentionally alters an airbag that is not counterfeit in a manner that causes the airbag to not meet all applicable federal safety regulations for an airbag designed to be installed in a vehicle of a particular make, model, and year;
(3)  represents to another person that a counterfeit airbag installed in a motor vehicle is not counterfeit; or
(4)  causes another person to violate Subsection (a-1) or Subdivision (1), (2), or (3) or assists a person in violating Subsection (a-1) or Subdivision (1), (2), or (3).
(b)  Except as provided by Subsections (c), (d), and (e), an offense under this section is a state jail felony.
(c)  An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted of an offense under this section.
(d)  An offense under this section is a felony of the second degree if it is shown on the trial of the offense that as a result of the offense an individual suffered bodily injury.
(e)  An offense under this section is a felony of the first degree if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the offense resulted in the death of a person.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 910, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 269 (H.B. 71), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 843 (H.B. 38), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.616. Radar Interference Devices; Offense

Sec. 547.616.  RADAR INTERFERENCE DEVICES; OFFENSE.  (a)  In this section, "radar interference device" means a device, a mechanism, an instrument, or equipment that is designed, manufactured, used, or intended to be used to interfere with, scramble, disrupt, or otherwise cause to malfunction a radar or laser device used to measure the speed of a motor vehicle by a law enforcement agency of this state or a political subdivision of this state, including a "radar jamming device," "jammer," "scrambler," or "diffuser."  The term does not include a ham radio, band radio, or similar electronic device.
(b)  A person, other than a law enforcement officer in the discharge of the officer's official duties, may not use, attempt to use, install, operate, or attempt to operate a radar interference device in a motor vehicle operated by the person.
(c)  A person may not purchase, sell, or offer for sale a radar interference device to be used in a manner described by Subsection (b).
(d)  A person who violates this section commits an offense.  An offense under this subsection is a Class C misdemeanor.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 739 (H.B. 1116), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.617. Motorcycle and Moped Footrests and Handholds Required

Sec. 547.617.  MOTORCYCLE AND MOPED FOOTRESTS AND HANDHOLDS REQUIRED.  (a)  A motorcycle or moped that is designed to carry more than one person must be equipped with footrests and handholds for use by the passenger.
(b)  This section does not apply to an autocycle as defined by Section 501.008 or a motorcycle as defined by Section 521.001(a)(6-a).
Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1111 (H.B. 3838), Sec. 4, eff. January 1, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 67 (S.B. 449), Sec. 6, eff. May 22, 2015.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 882 (H.B. 3171), Sec. 2.14, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter K. Provisions Relating to Other Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.618. Equipment Required for Certain Automated Motor Vehicles

Sec. 547.618.  EQUIPMENT REQUIRED FOR CERTAIN AUTOMATED MOTOR VEHICLES.  (a)  In this section, "automated motor vehicle" and "automated driving system" have the meanings assigned by Section 545.451.
(b)  An automated motor vehicle that is designed to be operated exclusively by the automated driving system for all trips is not subject to motor vehicle equipment laws or regulations of this state that:
(1)  relate to or support motor vehicle operation by a human driver; and
(2)  are not relevant for an automated driving system.
(c)  If a vehicle safety inspection is required under this code for the operation of a vehicle described by Subsection (b), the vehicle shall automatically be considered to pass the inspection with respect to any equipment:
(1)  the requirements from which the vehicle is exempt under Subsection (b); or
(2)  the inspection of which is not required under Section 548.051.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 892 (H.B. 3026), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter L. Additional Equipment Requirements for School Buses, Authorized Emergency Vehicles, and Slow-Moving Vehicles › Section 547.7011. Additional Equipment Requirements for Other Buses

Sec. 547.7011.  ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR OTHER BUSES.  (a)  A bus, other than a school bus, that provides public transportation and that was acquired on or after September 1, 1997, shall be equipped with two or more hazard lamps that:
(1)  are mounted at the same level on the rear of the bus;
(2)  are visible at a distance of 500 feet in normal sunlight;
(3)  flash;  and
(4)  emit amber light.
(b)  An operator of a bus to which this section applies shall activate the hazard lamps if the bus stops to load or unload a person under 18 years of age.
(c)  A bus to which this section applies must bear a sign on the rear of the bus stating:  "Caution--children may be exiting".
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1131, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter L. Additional Equipment Requirements for School Buses, Authorized Emergency Vehicles, and Slow-Moving Vehicles › Section 547.7012. Requirements for Multifunction School Activity Buses

Sec. 547.7012.  REQUIREMENTS FOR MULTIFUNCTION SCHOOL ACTIVITY BUSES.  A multifunction school activity bus may not be painted National School Bus Glossy Yellow.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 923 (H.B. 3190), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter L. Additional Equipment Requirements for School Buses, Authorized Emergency Vehicles, and Slow-Moving Vehicles › Section 547.7015. Rules Relating to School Buses

Sec. 547.7015.  RULES RELATING TO SCHOOL BUSES.  (a)  The department shall adopt and enforce rules governing the design, color, lighting and other equipment, construction, and operation of a school bus for the transportation of schoolchildren that is:
(1)  owned and operated by a school district in this state;  or
(2)  privately owned and operated under a contract with a school district in this state.
(b)  In adopting rules under this section, the department shall emphasize:
(1)  safety features;  and
(2)  long-range, maintenance-free factors.
(c)  Rules adopted under this section:
(1)  apply to each school district, the officers and employees of a district, and each person employed under contract by a school district;  and
(2)  shall by reference be made a part of any contract that is entered into by a school district in this state for the transportation of schoolchildren on a privately owned school bus.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.119(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 309, Sec. 9.02, eff. June 18, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter L. Additional Equipment Requirements for School Buses, Authorized Emergency Vehicles, and Slow-Moving Vehicles › Section 547.702. Additional Equipment Requirements for Authorized Emergency Vehicles

Sec. 547.702.  ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES.  (a)  An authorized emergency vehicle may be equipped with a siren, exhaust whistle, or bell:
(1)  of a type approved by the department;  and
(2)  that emits a sound audible under normal conditions at a distance of at least 500 feet.
(b)  The operator of an authorized emergency vehicle shall use the siren, whistle, or bell when necessary to warn other vehicle operators or pedestrians of the approach of the emergency vehicle.
(c)  Except as provided by this section, an authorized emergency vehicle shall be equipped with signal lamps that:
(1)  are mounted as high and as widely spaced laterally as practicable;
(2)  display four alternately flashing red lights, two located on the front at the same level and two located on the rear at the same level;  and
(3)  emit a light visible at a distance of 500 feet in normal sunlight.
(c-1)  An authorized emergency vehicle may be equipped with signal lamps that display alternating or flashing white lights that comply with the requirements of Subsections (c)(1) and (3).
(d)  A private vehicle operated by a volunteer firefighter responding to a fire alarm or a medical emergency may, but is not required to, be equipped with signal lamps that comply with the requirements of Subsection (c).
(e)  A private vehicle operated by a volunteer firefighter responding to a fire alarm or a medical emergency may be equipped with a signal lamp that is temporarily attached to the vehicle roof and flashes a red light visible at a distance of at least 500 feet in normal sunlight.
(f)  A police vehicle may, but is not required to, be equipped with signal lamps that comply with Subsection (c).
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 592 (H.B. 3125), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter L. Additional Equipment Requirements for School Buses, Authorized Emergency Vehicles, and Slow-Moving Vehicles › Section 547.703. Additional Equipment Requirements for Slow-Moving Vehicles

Sec. 547.703.  ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR SLOW-MOVING VEHICLES.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), a slow-moving vehicle shall display a slow-moving-vehicle emblem that:
(1)  has a reflective surface designed to be clearly visible in daylight or at night from the light of standard automobile headlamps at a distance of at least 500 feet;
(2)  is mounted base down on the rear of the vehicle and at a height that does not impair the visibility of the emblem; and
(3)  is maintained in a clean, reflective condition.
(b)  Subsection (a) does not apply to a vehicle that is used in construction or maintenance work and is traveling in a construction area that is marked as required by the Texas Transportation Commission.
(c)  If a motor vehicle displaying a slow-moving-vehicle emblem tows machinery, including an implement of husbandry, and the visibility of the emblem is not obstructed, the towed unit is not required to display a slow-moving-vehicle emblem.
(d)  A golf cart, neighborhood electric vehicle, or off-highway vehicle that is operated at a speed of not more than 25 miles per hour is required to display a slow-moving-vehicle emblem when it is operated on a highway.
(e)  Repealed by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1136, Sec. 12(2), eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1136 (H.B. 2553), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1136 (H.B. 2553), Sec. 12(2), eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 809 (H.B. 2290), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 860 (H.B. 2837), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1233 (H.B. 1548), Sec. 13, eff. June 14, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter L. -1. Additional Lighting Equipment Authorized for Medical Examiner Vehicles and Vehicles Operated by Justices of the Peace in Certain Circumstances › Section 547.751. Additional Lighting Equipment Authorized for Medical Examiner Vehicles

Sec. 547.751.  ADDITIONAL LIGHTING EQUIPMENT AUTHORIZED FOR MEDICAL EXAMINER VEHICLES.  (a)  In this section, "medical examiner vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is owned or leased by a governmental entity for use by a medical examiner or an employee of an office of a medical examiner in the performance of the examiner's or employee's duties relating to an inquest conducted under Subchapter B, Chapter 49, Code of Criminal Procedure.
(b)  A medical examiner vehicle may be equipped with either:
(1)  mounted signal lamps that comply with the requirements of Section 547.702(c); or
(2)  a signal lamp that is temporarily attached to the vehicle roof and flashes red and blue lights visible at a distance of at least 500 feet in normal sunlight.
(c)  The operator of a medical examiner vehicle may use the lighting equipment described by Subsection (b) only when:
(1)  necessary to warn other vehicle operators or pedestrians of the approach of the medical examiner vehicle; and
(2)  operating the vehicle in the course and scope of the operator's duties relating to an inquest conducted under Subchapter B, Chapter 49, Code of Criminal Procedure.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 727 (H.B. 2616), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter L. -1. Additional Lighting Equipment Authorized for Medical Examiner Vehicles and Vehicles Operated by Justices of the Peace in Certain Circumstances › Section 547.752. Additional Lighting Equipment Authorized for Vehicles Operated by Justices of the Peace in Certain Circumstances

Sec. 547.752.  ADDITIONAL LIGHTING EQUIPMENT AUTHORIZED FOR VEHICLES OPERATED BY JUSTICES OF THE PEACE IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.  (a)  A vehicle operated by a justice of the peace in the course and scope of the justice's duties as a coroner under Subchapter A, Chapter 49, Code of Criminal Procedure, may be equipped with either:
(1)  mounted signal lamps that comply with the requirements of Section 547.702(c); or
(2)  a signal lamp that is temporarily attached to the vehicle roof and flashes red and blue lights visible at a distance of at least 500 feet in normal sunlight.
(b)  A justice of the peace may use the lighting equipment described by Subsection (a) only when:
(1)  necessary to warn other vehicle operators or pedestrians of the approach of a vehicle operated by a justice of the peace; and
(2)  operating the vehicle in the course and scope of the justice's duties relating to an inquest conducted under Subchapter A, Chapter 49, Code of Criminal Procedure.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 727 (H.B. 2616), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter M. Additional or Alternative Equipment Requirements for Motorcycles and Mopeds › Section 547.801. Lighting Equipment

Sec. 547.801.  LIGHTING EQUIPMENT.  (a)  A motorcycle or a moped shall be equipped with:
(1)  not more than two headlamps mounted at a height from 24 to 54 inches;
(2)  at least one taillamp mounted at a height from 20 to 72 inches;
(3)  a taillamp or separate lamp to illuminate the rear license plate that complies with the requirements of Sections 547.322(f) and (g);
(4)  at least one stoplamp that complies with the requirements of Section 547.323(d); and
(5)  at least one rear red reflector that complies with the requirements of Section 547.325(b) and may be included as a part of the taillamp.
(b)  A motorcycle, other than a motorcycle equipped with a motor that has an engine piston displacement of 250 cubic centimeters or less, shall be equipped with multiple-beam lighting equipment that produces:
(1)  an uppermost distribution of light that reveals a person or vehicle at a distance of at least 300 feet ahead; and
(2)  a lowermost distribution of light that:
(A)  reveals a person or vehicle at a distance of at least 150 feet ahead; and
(B)  is aimed so that no part of the high-intensity portion of the beam on the motorcycle that is on a straight and level road under any condition of loading projects into the eyes of an approaching vehicle operator.
(c)  A moped or a motorcycle equipped with a motor that has an engine piston displacement of 250 cubic centimeters or less shall be equipped with:
(1)  multiple-beam lighting equipment that complies with the requirements of Subsection (b); or
(2)  single-beam lighting equipment that:
(A)  emits light sufficient to reveal a person or vehicle:
(i)  at a distance of at least 100 feet when the moped or motorcycle is operated at a speed less than 25 miles per hour;
(ii)  at a distance of at least 200 feet when the moped or motorcycle is operated at a speed of 25 miles per hour or more; and
(iii)  at a distance of at least 300 feet when the moped or motorcycle is operated at a speed of 35 miles per hour or more; and
(B)  is aimed so that no part of the high-intensity portion of the beam from the lamp on a loaded moped or motorcycle projects a beam higher than the level center of the lamp for a distance of 25 feet ahead.
(d)  A motorcycle may not be operated at any time unless at least one headlamp on the motorcycle is illuminated.  This subsection does not apply to a motorcycle manufactured before the model year 1975.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 782, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1022, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 882 (H.B. 3171), Sec. 2.16, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter M. Additional or Alternative Equipment Requirements for Motorcycles and Mopeds › Section 547.802. Brake Equipment

Sec. 547.802.  BRAKE EQUIPMENT.  (a)  If a motorcycle or a moped complies with the performance requirements of Section 547.408, brakes are not required on the wheel of a sidecar attached to the motorcycle or moped.
(b)  If a moped or a motorcycle equipped with a motor that has an engine piston displacement of 250 cubic centimeters or less complies with the performance standards of Section 547.408, brakes are not required on the front wheel of the moped or motorcycle.
(c)  The director may require an inspection of the braking system of a moped or a motorcycle equipped with a motor that has an engine piston displacement of 250 cubic centimeters or less and may disapprove a system that:
(1)  does not comply with the brake performance requirements in Section 547.408; or
(2)  is not designed or constructed to ensure reasonable and reliable performance during actual use.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 882 (H.B. 3171), Sec. 2.17, eff. September 1, 2019.