FMVSS Testing & Certification Services
FMVSS testing (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards testing) ensures that automotive lighting products meet the minimum safety and performance requirements mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Manufacturers, importers, and OEM suppliers rely on proper compliance testing before selling lighting products in the United States or certifying them as DOT-compliant.
This page provides a comprehensive overview of test procedures, photometric requirements, environmental conditioning, and the specific standards applicable to automotive lighting systems.
What Is FMVSS Testing?
FMVSS testing consists of laboratory evaluations that confirm whether a lighting device meets the performance, durability, and safety requirements defined in 49 CFR Part 571. The most common lighting regulation—FMVSS 108—governs lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment used on all motor vehicles.
- Photometric testing (luminous intensity, color, beam pattern)
- Environmental simulation (thermal shock, humidity, vibration)
- Mechanical durability (impacts, mounting robustness, corrosion)
- Colorimetry testing per SAE & FMVSS color boundaries
- Reflex reflector testing (specific photometric grid points)
- Signal flash testing (for turn signals, hazard lamps, etc.)
FMVSS Standards Covered in Our Testing
FMVSS Standard |
Description |
Key Test Categories |
|---|---|---|
| FMVSS 108 | Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment | Photometry, colorimetry, reflex testing, DRL testing, environmental exposure, corrosion, voltage variation, flasher performance |
| FMVSS 111 | Rear Visibility | Mirror reflectivity, curvature, environmental durability |
| FMVSS 125 | Warning Devices | Reflex photometry, color testing, environmental conditioning |
| FMVSS 131 | School Bus Pedestrian Safety Devices | Signal lamp photometry, flashing performance, durability |
| 49 CFR Part 564 | Replaceable Light Source & Headlamp Information | Luminous flux testing, filament position, vibration durability |
FMVSS 108 Testing Capabilities
FMVSS 108 is the most critical automotive lighting regulation in the U.S. Our laboratory performs complete evaluations for:
- Headlamps (LED, HID, Halogen)
- Turn signal lamps
- Stop lamps & tail lamps
- Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs)
- Backup lamps
- High-mounted stop lamps
- Reflex reflectors & retroreflective materials
FMVSS Laboratory Test Methods
Our FMVSS-compliant laboratory is equipped to perform:
- Goniophotometry
- Spectroradiometric color analysis
- Thermal shock testing
- Humidity & environmental cycling
- Corrosion & salt-fog exposure
- Vibration & mechanical stress testing
Why FMVSS Testing Matters
Failure to comply with FMVSS regulations can result in:
- Product recalls
- Customs detentions (CBP import holds)
- NHTSA investigations
- OEM contract failure
- Liability during roadway incidents
Request a Compliance Consultation
Our laboratory provides a variety of testing, photometry, environmental conditioning, and complete compliance reporting for OEMs, suppliers, importers, and aftermarket manufacturers.
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