Knowing motorcycle lights and mirror laws in the UK can seem confusing.
There’s a lot of conflicting information on how to keep your mirrors and lights road legal online, but staying compliant is easier than you might think.
Whether you’re a new motorcyclist, or you’ve bought a new bike and you’re unsure whether it’s safe to ride, this guide will explain what you need to know.
Are mirrors a legal requirement on motorbikes in the UK?
It’s not a legal requirement to fit your motorcycle with mirrors. However, having mirrors on your motorcycle is strongly advised to improve visibility and safety.
You can remove existing mirrors from your motorcycle, but doing so could impact your liability in the event of an accident. It’s also worth noting that some insurers may view mirror removal as a vehicle modification, which could impact your cover.
Do you need mirrors on a motorcycle to pass your MOT?
You don’t need mirrors on your motorcycle to pass your MOT. Provided that everything else is in good working order and meets UK motorbike MOT requirements, you’ll likely pass.
Inspecting your motorbike carefully beforehand to ensure each component is roadworthy can also increase your chances of passing your MOT.
What motorbike lights are legally required in the UK?
There are certain motorcycle headlight laws in the UK that you must follow to remain road compliant.
According to the Highway Code, front and rear lights must be fitted and fully functional if you intend to use your motorcycle at night.
All motorbikes registered after 1986 must be equipped with working indicators to be considered road legal. Your side lights (or position lamps) must also be white at the front and red at the rear to be considered road legal.
What about aftermarket or decorative lighting?
Different types of motorcycle lighting carry slightly different legal requirements or restrictions in the UK. Here are some essential aftermarket or decorative lighting laws you should know:
- Underglow lighting: Motorcycle underglow laws in the UK dictate that this type of lighting isn’t illegal by definition in the UK. However, their placement and colouring could make them unlawful.
- Red, blue, and flashing lights: Red and blue lights visible from the front of the vehicle are prohibited as they may impersonate emergency vehicles. It’s also illegal to fit flashing lights on any non-emergency vehicle in the UK.
- Auxiliary or fog lights: These types of lighting are considered legal providing they’re fitted professionally and don’t cause glare or confusion.
- Daytime Running Lights (DRLs): This is an increasingly popular lighting option for modern motorbikes. DRLs are legal but must meet ECE regulations.
- LED lights: It’s not illegal to install LED lights on your motorbike. However, according to official government guidelines, existing halogen headlamp units should not be converted to be used with high intensity discharge (HID) or light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. If you do decide to fit LEDs on your bike, you must position them safely and ensure they’re not too bright or ‘dazzling’ to remain compliant.
It’s also worth noting that fitting decorative or aftermarket lights to your vehicle could be seen as a modification by some insurers, which may affect your claim.
Tips for staying road legal and safe
Keeping your motorcycle lights and mirrors in good condition is one of the best ways to stay road legal in the UK. Routine checks and maintenance will also avoid invalidating your motorcycle insurance policy.
Here are some additional tips to help you stay safe and road legal:
- Check your motorcycle lighting regularly to ensure everything is working as it should, especially before long rides or during winter months.
- Ensure your mirrors are clean, properly adjusted, and not cracked before each ride.
- If you do install aftermarket lights, make sure they meet UK/ECE regulations.
- Avoid removing mirrors without considering the potential safety or insurance implications. Remember, having mirrors will give you added visibility.
- Refer to the Highway Code or ask a qualified mechanic if you’re unsure whether your lights or mirrors are road legal.
Keep your motorbike protected with dedicated insurance from Devitt
Understanding UK motorcycle mirror and lighting laws can be stressful, but by following the advice in this guide, you can ensure your bike is road legal.
If you need suitable motorcycle insurance, we’re here to help. We’ve helped UK riders secure policies based on their specific requirements since 1936, so you’re in good hands.
Whether you ride for leisure or business, we can offer a range of cover options to suit your personal situation.
Request a quote online or call our team of in-house specialists on 0345 504 0395. We look forward to hearing from you.
Disclaimer: The sole purpose of this article is to provide guidance on the issues covered. This article is not intended to give legal advice, and, accordingly, it should not be relied upon. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in this area. We make no claims as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein or in the links which were live at the date of publication.
You should not act upon (or should refrain from acting upon) information in this publication without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist advice. Devitt, a trading name of Devitt Insurance Services Limited, accepts no liability for any inaccuracy, omission or mistake in this publication, nor will we be responsible for any loss which may be suffered as a result of any person relying on the information contained herein.