Are lowriders still legal?

Yes—lowriders are legal in most places, and they’re increasingly welcomed. In California specifically, statewide restrictions on “cruising” were lifted effective January 1, 2024, under AB 436, making organized lowrider cruising legal statewide. That said, owners must still comply with general vehicle safety and equipment laws (lighting, noise, bumper/ride height, emissions, registration) and, outside California, some cities and states still impose local limits on cruising or vehicle modifications.

What’s changed—and what hasn’t

California

California’s new law (AB 436, signed in 2023 and in effect since 2024) prevents local governments from enforcing blanket bans on lowrider cruising and removes targeted restrictions that singled out lowriders. Owners can now legally organize and participate in cruises statewide, provided vehicles comply with standard safety and equipment rules—such as proper lighting, visible plates, legal exhaust noise, and safe operation. Hydraulics themselves are not banned, but using them in ways that compromise control or create hazards can still draw citations under reckless or exhibition-of-speed laws.

Other U.S. states

In most states, lowriders are legal to own and drive so long as they meet general vehicle requirements. The details vary: some states set minimum bumper or frame heights, limit protruding or scraping components, or regulate decorative lighting. A number of cities still have anti-cruising ordinances (typically tied to traffic flow or noise), though the recent trend is toward repeal or event-based permitting rather than blanket bans.

Outside the U.S.

Rules vary widely. Some countries focus on noise and lighting; others also regulate ride height, tire coverage, and modifications to suspension systems. Event permits are common for organized cruises. Always check national and local codes before modifying or cruising.

What can make a lowrider illegal

The following points summarize the most common issues that can cause a lowrider to be ticketed or considered noncompliant. Understanding these areas will help you build and drive within the law.

• Ride height and bumper/frame rules: Some jurisdictions set minimum ground clearance or minimum/maximum bumper heights. Bottoming out, dragging parts, or sparks can trigger citations.
• Hydraulics use on public roads: The hardware is generally legal, but “dancing,” hopping, three-wheeling, or raising/lowering while moving can be cited if it affects control or safety, or falls under stunt/exhibition laws.
• Lighting: Red or blue lights visible from the front, flashing/strobing lights, or underglow visible to the front in prohibited colors are restricted in many states. Headlamps and taillamps must remain DOT-compliant.
• Noise and exhaust: Many states cap exhaust noise (for example, 95 dB in parts of California). Straight pipes, cutouts, or excessively loud systems can be illegal.
• Fender/tire coverage: Exposed tread, stretched tires beyond fenders, or missing splash guards can violate equipment rules.
• License plate visibility: Tilted, tinted, or obstructed plates and plate lights can lead to stops and tickets.
• View obstructions: Overly dark tint, windshield decals, or objects hanging that block the driver’s view are often restricted.
• Sparks/scrapers: Dragging frames, chain plates, or devices that throw sparks are typically prohibited on public roads.
• Emissions and inspections: Smog checks, OBD readiness, and inspection requirements still apply where enforced.
• Insurance and registration: As with any custom vehicle, valid registration and adequate insurance are mandatory.

While few laws target “lowriders” by name today, general safety, equipment, and operation statutes still apply and are the most common sources of enforcement.

How to keep your lowrider street-legal

These practical steps can reduce your risk of citations and keep your car compliant while preserving style and culture.

1. Check your state vehicle code and local ordinances, including any municipal cruising rules or event-permit processes.
2. Measure ride height and bumper height at rest; set hydraulic presets that keep you within legal limits when rolling.
3. Use hydraulic “lockouts” or a conservative drive mode to prevent hopping or three-wheeling on public roads.
4. Keep lighting compliant: white/amber forward, red to the rear; avoid blue/red forward, flashing/strobing, or overly bright underglow.
5. Meet noise limits: choose mufflers that pass local decibel caps; keep cutouts closed on public streets.
6. Ensure tire/fender coverage and avoid exposed tread; add skirts or mudguards if your jurisdiction requires them.
7. Mount plates level and illuminated; avoid tints or covers that reduce legibility.
8. Secure batteries, lines, and reservoirs for hydraulics; prevent leaks and ensure safe wiring and fusing.
9. Stay current on emissions/inspection and carry proof of insurance and registration.
10. Coordinate with local clubs and law enforcement for organized cruises; many cities offer permits or designated routes/times.

A little preparation goes a long way: most tickets arise from easy-to-fix details like lighting, plate visibility, or ride height while moving.

Quick answers to common questions

Can I cruise in California now?

Yes. State law now prevents cities from enforcing blanket anti-cruising bans. You still must follow traffic, noise, and equipment rules, and some organized events may require permits.

Are hydraulics legal?

Hydraulic suspension systems are generally legal, but using them to hop, lift a wheel, or otherwise lose normal control on public roads can be cited under reckless or exhibition-of-speed statutes. Save the show moves for private property or sanctioned events.

Can I drive on three wheels?

Operating with a wheel lifted off the road is likely to be considered unsafe or reckless in many jurisdictions. It’s best reserved for demonstrations off public streets.

Is underglow legal?

Often, with restrictions: non-flashing, non-emergency colors, and not directly visible forward in prohibited colors. Check your state’s specifics before wiring it up.

Do I need fender skirts or mudguards?

If your wheels or tires protrude beyond the fender and your state requires coverage, you’ll need skirts or mudguards to stay compliant.

Summary

Lowriders are legal—and in places like California, they have clearer protections for cruising than ever. The key is compliance with universal rules: safe ride height, sensible use of hydraulics, legal lighting and exhaust, visible plates, and current registration and emissions. Regulations do vary, so confirm your local code, set up your car accordingly, and enjoy the cruise responsibly.

Why is lowriding illegal?

Lowriders were “banned” due to discriminatory laws that prohibited modifying cars to have their frames lower than the wheel rims, as well as anti-cruising ordinances, which stemmed from stereotypes linking the culture to gangs and crime. The laws were enacted in California, starting with the Vehicle Code in 1958 and followed by anti-cruising ordinances in the 1980s, which created public nuisances and traffic problems. However, these bans were largely reversed in California by the end of 2023, ending 40 years of restrictions. 
Key Reasons for the Bans

• Discriminatory Laws: Opens in new tabThe initial ban in California, enacted in 1958, directly targeted the modifying of vehicles to lower their frames, which is central to lowrider design. 
• Stereotypes and Associations with Gangs: Opens in new tabLowriding culture, which began among Mexican-American communities, was associated with gang activity and drug dealing in the 1980s and 1990s, leading to laws aimed at controlling the streets. 
• Public Nuisance: Opens in new tabAnti-cruising ordinances were implemented to address traffic congestion, noise complaints, and the general disruption caused by the low-speed cruising of lowrider cars. 

The Shift to Ending the Bans

• Ending a “Discriminatory” Practice: Opens in new tabCommunity members and advocates fought to end these laws, which they viewed as discriminatory and targeting Chicano culture. 
• AB 436 and the End of the Cruising Ban: Opens in new tabIn October 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 436, officially ending the state’s long-standing ban on lowrider cruising and prohibiting local governments from enacting their own anti-cruising ordinances. 
• Lowriding as a Cultural Expression: Opens in new tabThe lifting of these bans allowed the lowrider community to freely celebrate and express their culture without the fear of prosecution. 

Are lowriders legal in the US?

Lowriding is Legalized. ((Blurb: Lowriding has been a part of Mexican-American culture in the U.S for many decades, this year the state of California repeals the laws from 1958 and 1986, that were prohibiting lowering the cars and cruising.))

Is it illegal to drive a lowrider?

No, lowriders are not generally illegal, though specific modifications might be restricted. Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 436 in 2023, which repealed the ban on lowriding and cruising in California, the birthplace of the culture. This law allows lowriders to legally cruise on streets, although local jurisdictions can still regulate against nuisances or illegal activities associated with lowriding. 
Historical Context

• Origins: Lowrider culture began with Mexican Americans in Southern California after World War II, developing into an artistic tradition of modifying cars, including lowering them. 
• Cruising Bans: Starting in the 1980s, some California cities began banning lowrider cruising due to concerns about traffic congestion and crime, which many felt was discriminatory against the Latino community. 
• AB 436 (2023): In October 2023, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 436, lifting the statewide ban on lowrider cruising. 

Current Situation

• Legalized Cruising: The new law prohibits cities and counties from banning lowrider cruising, allowing drivers to legally operate their vehicles. 
• Still Regulated: While outright bans are illegal, cities can still establish regulations to prevent nuisances or illegal activities that might occur alongside lowriding, such as excessive noise or dangerous behavior. 
• Beyond California: Laws vary by state and municipality, so it is essential to check local regulations outside of California. 

Why do Mexicans like lowriders so much?

Lowriders have become synonymous to Chicano culture, due to its customization detail of expressing craftsmanship to create personalized art. Lowriding has evolved from out of the custom car subculture into activism and community building.