FAQ #370
Ready to Move Light - Questions and Answers

Last Updated On 12/2/2025 10:40:34 PM by

sayovitz

Question
Formula SAE requires a Ready to Move Light. The intent is to separately identify the possibility of High Voltage and that the Vehicle may move under its own power.

We have received questions about the Ready to Move Light:
Answer
Q: May our team build a Ready to Move Light or do we have to purchase a specific light?
A: The Formula SAE Rules do not give further requirements. Either approach could be used. The Formula SAE Rules requirement is that “A Marker Light that complies with DOT FMVSS 108”. Purchased units generally met this certification while team built units will need to be proven to satisfy the DOT FMVSS 108 requirements.

We strongly suggest that teams purchase a compliant side marker light

Q: Where could we find a compliant Ready to Move Light?
A: Marker lights that meet FMVSS 108 are available at local auto parts stores, often at hardware stores or general retail locations. Online sources also. Many types and configurations are acceptable, and retail for less than $10 apiece.

Q: What do the Formula SAE Rules mean by the “luminous area”?
A: This is a way to specify the size of the light, not the light producing component within. The area is the portion of the cover lens that is being illuminated. DOT certified units have a plastic cover that is designed to diffuse the emitted light along with a reflective back surface to redirect the light forward. For team designed LEDs without a cover lens or reflector, the luminous area will be calculated using the dispersion angle of the LED at a distance of 1” from the LEDs multiplied by the number of LEDs.

Q: Could we use two or more lights as the Ready to Move Light, provided that their combined area meets EV.5.10.2.c?
A: No, each of the two required Ready to Move Lights must be a single assembly

Q: How do we show that our Ready to Move Light meets the FMVSS 108 standard?
A: There are several ways that we would accept in Tech Inspection:
1. Marker lights that you can purchase will often have a statement on the package that it complies with FMVSS 108 or DOT standards. Bring this to Tech Inspection
2. A spec sheet or other statement from the manufacturer showing compliance
3. Perform tests to show that the Ready to Move Light meets the requirements for side marker lights in FMVSS 108. Refer to the guidance provided on the FSAE Online website, under Series Resources, Technical Inspection Resources, Electric Vehicle. No equipment to test compliance will be available at Tech Inspection. Option 3 should not be necessary if your team purchases a light.

Q: Can we use software to control the Ready to Move Light?
A: No, this is not allowed per Formula SAE Rule EV.5.10.4.b

Visibility
Q: Can you clarify the visibility requirement of EV.5.10.3.e?
A: From above, EV.5.10.3.e must be satisfied at any angle inside a semi-circle with the flat portion across the roll hoop.

Q: How will the visibility of the Ready to Move Light be checked at Technical Inspection?
A: During inspection, we use a rope positioned to meet EV.5.10.3.e dimensions and rotate it from one side of the Main Hoop to the rear and then to the other side of the Main Hoop - if the rope 'hits' something, then your vehicle violates the Rule. See the attached File

Rule Numbers
2025:EV.5.10