As of 2025, Washington law still generally requires vehicles to have properly functioning tail lights for safe operation. However, recent legislative proposals could significantly change how police enforce such equipment violations.
Current Law:
Equipment Requirements: All vehicles must have at least two tail lamps mounted on the rear, emitting a red light visible from 1,000 feet behind, and a light to illuminate the rear license plate so it is clearly legible from 50 feet.
Traffic Infraction: Driving with a broken tail light is technically a traffic infraction under Washington law.
Traffic Stops: Historically, police have been allowed to stop vehicles for minor equipment violations like a broken tail light.
Proposed Legislative Changes:
Limits on Traffic Stops: There are active proposals in the Washington Legislature to prevent police from stopping drivers solely for nonmoving violations such as broken tail lights or recently expired tabs, unless these issues pose an immediate, serious threat to safety (e.g., a shattered windshield that impairs vision).
Purpose: These bills aim to limit low-level traffic stops that critics say disproportionately affect communities of color and can escalate into dangerous situations.
Status: As of early 2025, these bills have not yet become law, but they are under consideration and have generated significant debate.
Summary Table
| Situation | Can You Be Pulled Over? (Current Law) | Proposed Changes (Under Consideration) |
|---|---|---|
| Broken tail light | Yes | No (unless immediate safety threat) |
| Expired registration (recent) | Yes | No (unless immediate safety threat) |
| Other nonmoving equipment issues | Yes | No (unless immediate safety threat) |
Key Takeaways:
Under current law: Yes, you can be pulled over for a broken tail light in Washington.
If proposed legislation passes: Police would no longer be able to stop drivers solely for broken tail lights or similar nonmoving violations unless they pose an immediate safety risk.
Always check for updates: Legislation is evolving, so the rules could change soon.
For now, ensure your vehicle’s equipment is in working order to avoid being stopped. If you are pulled over, you are required to provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
Sources:
- https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.37.050
- https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.37&full=true
- https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/wa-state-traffic-laws-no-proof-of-insurance-and-ta-9560.html
- https://mcaleerlaw.net/traffic-stop-in-washington-state/