FMCSR 393.17B: Lamps and Reflectors — Inspection Citations & OOS

Yes, most likely. Across 13 million inspections we see a 91.7% out-of-service rate for 393.17B violations. That is significantly higher than the average across all FMCSR codes (31.4% OOS rate). Once cited, an inspector will typically place your vehicle out of service until lamps and reflectors are repaired and reinspected. If you're in Texas, Illinois, or North Carolina—the top states citing this violation—the risk is even higher (87.5–100% OOS rate in the last 180 days).

393.17B carries a severity weight of 3 CSA points per violation. That weight is multiplied by the number of violations found in a 30-day period; one citation on one inspection = 3 points, but if you're cited twice in 30 days, that becomes 6 points in your Unsafe Driving BASIC. Points stay on your record for 12 months. Even a single citation can impact your CSA score, so repair and documentation of compliance are critical immediately.

Immediate steps:

1. Do not drive the vehicle. Our records show a 91.7% OOS rate; your truck is likely already out of service.
2. Check all lamps and reflectors on the tractor and trailer against FMCSR 393.17B requirements (working, correct color, proper position).
3. Repair or replace defective units. Commonly paired with fifth-wheel defects (seen together in 6 recent inspections), so inspect that too.
4. Request a re-inspection. Have the inspector verify repairs before resuming operation.
5. Document repairs for your records and carrier compliance file.

Yes, 393.17B is materially more serious. Our database shows that 393.9 (inoperable required lamps) has a 15.4% OOS rate and 393.11 (lighting devices/reflectors) has a 1.8% OOS rate. By contrast, 393.17B sits at 91.7% OOS—nearly six times higher than 393.9. This suggests inspectors view inadequate lamps and reflectors as an immediate safety hazard requiring removal from service before repair.

Yes, you can file a DataQs (Pre-Employment Screening Program dispute) request with FMCSA if you believe the citation was issued in error—for example, if lamps were working at the time of inspection, or if the inspector misidentified your vehicle's equipment. Contested violations are reviewed and removed if investigation supports your claim. However, this process takes 30–60 days. Meanwhile, the OOS status remains in effect, so repair and re-inspection is usually faster than waiting for DataQs resolution.

In the last 180 days, our records show citations concentrated in three states: Texas (8 citations, 87.5% OOS rate), Illinois (3 citations, 100% OOS rate), and North Carolina (3 citations, 100% OOS rate). Texas accounts for the largest share of citations for this violation. If you operate in these regions, pay extra attention to lamp and reflector condition during pre-trip inspections.

Very urgent. Our inspection database shows 40 citations in the last 12 months, with activity spiking in May–June and again in February 2026 (9 citations alone). More critically, 91.7% of vehicles cited are placed out of service, meaning you cannot legally operate until repairs are complete and verified. Delays cost time, revenue, and can trigger additional violations if you drive an OOS vehicle. Repair and re-inspection should be your first priority.

393.17B is a vehicle maintenance violation, so it attaches to the carrier and the vehicle, not the driver. Your USDOT record (and your carrier's motor carrier record) will reflect this citation. However, as a driver, you remain responsible for conducting pre-trip inspections under 392.7, and you can be cited personally if you knowingly operate an unsafe vehicle. The violation will appear on background checks for future employment.