What’s Legal, What’s Optional, and What’s Changing in School Bus Lighting Laws

Not all safety features are created equal—at least not legally.

Some are federally mandated. Others are state-approved but optional. And a few are in that gray zone of “voluntary until it isn’t.”

Let’s unpack what’s what with school bus lighting and visibility tech.

What’s Legally Required

- Stop arms

- Flashing amber and red lights

- School bus signage and paint colors

These are mandated by FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) and must be present on every school bus.

What’s Optional (for Now)

Supplemetal school bus safety light systems like Gardian Angel fall into the optional-but-approved category in 26+ states. These are not federally mandated (yet), but they are permitted and praised by state agencies.

What’s Changing

NHTSA is expected to release updated recommendations on pupil safety lighting this fall. Based on early reports, systems that improve visibility in front of the bus—like Gardian Angel—could gain momentum as part of new best practices.

Why Stay Ahead?

Early adopters avoid rush retrofits, qualify for funding programs, and lead safety PR in their regions.

Don’t wait to be told—lead now.

👉 Browse our state approval list at https://www.GardianAngelLLC.com 

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