As you cruise down Colorado’s highways, the Rocky Mountains rising like giants in your rearview mirror, you might think the open road is your oyster. But, think again. Colorado has strict vehicle TV laws that govern what you can and can’t do with in-vehicle entertainment systems. From special license plates for amateur radio enthusiasts to prohibited passenger behaviors, there’s more to know than you might expect. What exactly are the rules of the road in terms of vehicle TVs in Colorado?
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Key Takeaways
- In Colorado, special license plates featuring amateur radio call signs or television licenses are available with specific eligibility criteria and fees.
- Driving with an obstructed view, including visible TV screens, is prohibited to maintain traffic safety and avoid fines.
- Certain vehicles, such as public transportation and emergency vehicles, are exempt from TV laws and registration fees.
- Failure to comply with vehicle TV laws results in penalties, fines, and sanctions, including suspended or revoked vehicle registration.
- Compliance with TV laws is mandatory to avoid legal consequences and maintain valid vehicle registration.
Eligibility for Special License Plates
You can apply for special license plates if you meet specific eligibility criteria.
In Colorado, holders of an amateur radio license issued by the Federal Communications Commission can obtain special plates featuring their call sign letters.
Amateur radio license holders in Colorado can showcase their call sign letters on special license plates.
According to the Colorado Revised Statutes, you must be licensed by the federal agency and have a vehicle annually registered in the state.
Additionally, television license holders may also be eligible.
You’ll need to pay the required registration fee and comply with Colorado laws.
Once approved, you can display your unique special license plates on your vehicle.
Limitations on Purchasing Special License Plates
The Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles imposes specific limitations on purchasing special license plates to guarantee their exclusivity and authenticity.
You’ll need to meet certain requirements to obtain special plates, such as holding an amateur radio license or television license. You’ll also need to provide your call sign and pay the required registration fee.
According to the Colorado Revised Statutes, you must have a valid vehicle registration and a special registration issued by the Federal Communications Commission for radio licenses. These limitations certify that only eligible individuals can purchase these unique license plates.
Validity and Renewal of Special License Plates
Special license plates remain valid until the end of the registration period, at which point they can be renewed for the same term as any other registration renewal.
To renew, you’ll need to apply and pay the prescribed registration fee. Additionally, you must still be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to renew your amateur radio license or television license, as specified in the Colorado Revised Statutes.
The renewal process is the same as for regular license plates, and you’ll need to verify your call sign is up to date.
Fees for Special License Plates
When you apply for special license plates, you’ll need to pay fees that vary depending on the type of plate you want.
For instance, if you’re an amateur radio operator, you’ll pay a specific fee for your amateur radio license plate.
Standard radio license plates, on the other hand, come with their own distinct fee.
Amateur Radio Fees
You’ll need to budget for amateur radio fees if you want to obtain special license plates showcasing your ham radio operator status.
As an amateur radio operator in Colorado, you must hold a valid radio license issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
According to the Colorado Revised Statutes, you’ll need to pay a registration fee for your unique call sign. This fee is separate from your vehicle registration and television license fees.
Once you’ve obtained your license, you can apply for special amateur radio license plates through the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles.
Standard Radio Fees
The Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles offers special license plates to amateur radio operators, and these plates come with an additional fee.
You’ll pay a standard radio fee on top of your vehicle registration fee. This fee goes towards supporting federal and state programs, including the Federal Communications Commission.
The fee amount varies depending on the type of license plate you choose. For instance, a standard amateur radio license plate costs $50, while a personalized plate costs $60.
These fees are in addition to your regular vehicle registration costs.
Prohibited Vehicle Operations
When you’re on the road, it’s essential to guarantee your vehicle is operated safely and responsibly.
This means avoiding obstructed driver’s view, hazardous passenger riding, and certifying unobstructed vehicle operation.
Obstructed Driver’s View
Driving with an obstructed view can be extremely dangerous, as it hampers your ability to react to road hazards and navigate safely.
In Colorado, it’s essential to guarantee your vehicle’s view isn’t obstructed, or you might face penalties.
According to Colorado Revised Statutes, you can’t operate a vehicle with an obstructed view, including:
- Television screens or video monitors visible to the driver
- Objects hanging from the rearview mirror or windshield that obstruct your view
- Any material or substance on the windshield or side windows that obstructs your view
Make sure to maintain a clear view to avoid compromising your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Hazardous Passenger Riding
You’re not just responsible for maintaining a clear view while driving; you’re also accountable for the safety of your passengers.
As a licensed driver in Colorado, it’s your duty to guarantee they’re not obstructing your view or distracting you from the road.
According to the Colorado Revised Statutes, you can’t allow a passenger to ride in a way that interferes with your control of the vehicle or obstructs traffic.
This applies to all vehicles, including amateur radio operators’ vehicles, and is a vital aspect of safe driving.
Make sure your passengers are buckled up and not compromising your ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Unobstructed Vehicle Operation
The safe operation of your vehicle relies on an unobstructed view and control of the vehicle.
As a licensed driver in Colorado, you must guarantee that your vehicle is operated in a way that doesn’t obstruct your view or control.
According to the Colorado Revised Statutes, certain vehicle operations are prohibited to maintain traffic safety.
- You can’t operate a motor vehicle with a television or video screen visible to the driver, unless it’s a GPS or a system that provides information about the vehicle’s navigation or operation.
- You can’t operate a vehicle with a call sign or plates that aren’t properly registered or licensed.
- You can’t operate a vehicle with a radio or other device that obstructs your view or control of the vehicle.
Prohibited Passenger Behavior
Passengers in vehicles equipped with TVs must adhere to specific rules to guarantee safety on the road.
You, as a passenger, can’t obstruct the driver’s view or interfere with their ability to operate the vehicle safely. You can’t tamper with the TV or radio while the vehicle is in motion, either.
As a passenger, avoid obstructing the driver’s view or tampering with the TV or radio while the vehicle is in motion.
Additionally, you can’t ride in a vehicle with a TV screen visible to the driver unless you’re in a class of vehicle exempt from registration, such as a farm truck, in Colorado.
Failure to comply with these laws can result in traffic violations and fines.
Exemptions and Exceptions
Certain classes of vehicles are exempt from TV laws, including those used for public transportation, like buses and taxis, and emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire trucks.
You’re also exempt if you hold a valid amateur radio license with a furnished call sign, as you’re entitled to operate a TV device for radio purposes.
Additionally, vehicles with a prescribed television license or radio license are exempt from registration fees.
- You don’t need to pay a registration fee if you’re exempt.
- Exempt vehicles can still operate TVs and radios.
- Always guarantee you have a valid license or permit to operate a TV device in your vehicle, and always verify you have a valid license or permit to operate a TV device in your vehicle.
Penalties and Enforcement
You’re now subject to penalties if you fail to comply with vehicle TV laws.
According to the Colorado Revised Statutes, violating these laws is considered a class A traffic infraction, resulting in prescribed penalties.
If you’re caught with an unauthorized TV in your vehicle, you’ll face fines and sanctions. Additionally, you may have to pay a registration fee to reinstate your vehicle’s registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Statute 42 4 702 in Colorado?
You’re wondering about Statute 42-4-702 in Colorado, which has nothing to do with driver distractions or screen limitations; it’s actually about special license plates for amateur radio, standard radio, FM, or TV license holders, not vehicle monitors or passenger entertainment.
What Is the Statute 42 4 603 in Colorado?
You’re looking at statute 42-4-603 in Colorado, which allows TV license holders to get special plates with their call sign letters; this has no relation to mobile entertainment, driver distraction, or screen restrictions, as it’s focused on license plates, not in-car viewing or display rules.
What Is the Statute 42 4 237 in Colorado?
You’ll be interested to know that Statute 42-4-237 in Colorado allows you to register your vehicle with your TV call sign instead of a registration number, promoting motorist freedoms while avoiding roadside distractions from entertainment systems and dashboard gadgets.
What Is the Statute 42 2 140 in Colorado?
You’re wondering about Statute 42-2-140 in Colorado, which surprisingly has nothing to do with window mounting, screen size, or driver distractions. Instead, it’s about special license plates for individuals with valid amateur radio, standard radio, FM, or TV licenses issued by the FCC.
Conclusion
As you navigate Colorado’s roads, bear in mind that vehicle TV laws are in place to guarantee safety and order. Failure to comply can lead to penalties that’ll leave you stuck in neutral, like a car in a snowbank. By understanding the rules and regulations, you’ll be driving smoothly, with special license plates and in-vehicle entertainment that’s both enjoyable and legal. Stay informed, stay safe, and avoid getting stuck in a traffic jam of fines and penalties.
