Texas Health and Safety Code 773.017 – Use of Certain External Motor Vehicle Markings or Features Prohibited; Criminal Offense
(a) A person may not operate a motor vehicle in this state that resembles an emergency medical services vehicle unless the person uses the motor vehicle:
(1) as an emergency medical services vehicle under this chapter; or
(2) for other legitimate governmental functions, including police or firefighting services.
(b) A motor vehicle resembles an emergency medical services vehicle if the motor vehicle has on the exterior of the motor vehicle any of the following markings or features:
(1) the word “ambulance” or a derivation of that word;
(2) a star of life as trademarked by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration;
(3) a Maltese cross commonly used by fire departments;
(4) forward-facing flashing red, white, or blue lights;
(5) a siren;
(6) the words “critical care transport,” “emergency,” “emergency medical services,” or “mobile intensive care unit”; or
(7) the acronym “EMS” or “MICU”.
Attorney's Note
Under the Texas Codes, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:| Class | Prison | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Class C misdemeanor | up to $500 |
Terms Used In Texas Health and Safety Code 773.017
- Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005
(c) A person commits an offense if the person violates this section. An offense under this subsection is a Class C misdemeanor.
(d) This section does not apply to a motor vehicle bearing a license plate issued or approved under § 504.501 or 504.502, Transportation Code.