Federal DOT FMCSA NHTSA Reflective Tape Requirements

Specifications for DOT FMCSA NHTSA Reflective Tape can be found at Click here.

Overview

Trucks with a weight exceeding 10,000 pounds and a width greater than 80 inches are required to equip their trailers with DOT C2 reflective tape that alternates in white and red colors. The white appears silvery during the daytime. Operators can implement either a 6/6 (6 red and 6 white) or a 7/11 (7 white and 11 red) pattern. It is mandatory for at least half of each side to be covered, ensuring an even distribution. The lower rear area requires two strips, while an inverted L configuration using solid white must be attached to the top corners of the trailer. Similar marking methods are mandated for trucks themselves. Visual representations are available at the bottom of this article.

These regulations are summarized for your convenience. For the precise legal text, reference the official FMCSA documentation.
The FMCSA has established rules to mandate the use of conspicuity materials (reflective tape) on trailers and rear truck tractors. These guidelines aim to minimize the risk of vehicular collisions between motor vehicles and the back or sides of tractor trailers during nighttime or other low-visibility scenarios. The initiative also addresses the risks of motorists rear-ending truck tractors when not pulling trailers.

NHTSA Regulations

On December 10, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a final rule stipulating that trailers manufactured after December 1 must feature visibility enhancements on their sides and rears if they have a width of 80 inches or more and a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) higher than 10,000 pounds. Exceptions to this rule include pole trailers and those designed solely for living or office purposes. This regulation permits trailer manufacturers to use either red and white retro reflective tape, sheeting, or reflex reflectors, commonly known as DOT C2 reflective tape for easy identification.

Application of Conspicuity Treatments

Proper placement of conspicuity materials on trailers is crucial for compliance and safety. Below, we detail these application locations. Images showcasing these treatments on various trailer types can be found at the end of this page.

For products, visit Hebei Top Tape Product Page.

Side Areas of the Trailer

Both sides of the trailer or semitrailer must display the 2 DOT C2 retro reflective sheeting. Each strip should run as horizontally as possible, starting and finishing as close to the front and rear ends as feasible. Continuous application is not a requirement; however, the total length of all segments must cover at least half the trailer’s length, with spaces distributed evenly between them. The centerline of retroreflective sheeting must be positioned between 375 mm (15 inches) and 1,525 mm (60 inches) above ground level when the trailer is unladen.

Lower Rear of the Trailer

The rear section of each trailer and semitrailer should feature retro reflective sheeting or reflex reflectors. Each strip must be placed as horizontally as possible across the trailer's full width, beginning and concluding as near to the outer edges as possible. The centerline should also fall between 375 mm (15 inches) and 1,525 mm (60 inches) above the ground during unladen conditions.

Upper Rear Corners of the Trailer

At the upper rear corners of each trailer and semitrailer, two pairs of white retro reflective sheeting or reflex reflectors, measuring 300 mm (12 inches) in length, must be placed both horizontally and vertically. Position these as close to the trailer's top and as far apart as possible while adhering to other guidelines.

Rear of Truck Regulations

On August 8, the NHTSA published a ruling that mandates truck tractors built from July 1 onward to incorporate red and white retroreflective materials similar to those designated for the rear of the trailers they tow, enhancing their visibility at night. Manufacturers can opt for reflective sheeting or reflex reflectors. In instances where truck tractors come equipped with temporary mudflap systems instead of permanent ones, retroreflective materials placed near the top of mudflaps can be matched with existing temporary mudflap brackets that transfer to the final mudflap arrangement. Additional retroreflective material is also necessary at the top of the cab, adhering to similar patterns required on trailers.

For further information about Reflective Marking Tape, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are committed to providing expert assistance.