Are Radar Detectors Illegal?
Laser detectors are completely legal in every state when used in automobiles or light trucks (under 10,000 lbs.). Similarly, when used in automobiles or light trucks, radar detectors are legal in almost every state. Exceptions are Virginia and Washington DC, which have local regulations restricting the use of radar receivers in any vehicle.Concerning trucks over 10,000 lbs., the Federal Highway Administration (FHwA) issued a regulation, effective January 19, 1994, which prohibits nationally radar and laser detector use in these types of vehicles.Prior to the FHwA regulation, laws existed in the state of New York restricting the use of radar detectors in trucks over 18,000 lbs., and in Illinois, in trucks over 26,000 lbs. These laws remain in effect. In Canada, radar detectors and laser detectors are illegal to use in Manitoba, New Brunswick; Newfoundland, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec.NOTE: It is the responsibility of the individual radar detector owner to know the laws in
