I Tested Marker Lights on a Trailer: What You Need to Know for Safety and Compliance

AvatarByJoe Petrus

Whenever I hit the road towing a trailer, one thing that always catches my attention is the marker lights glowing steadily along its sides. These small but essential lights do more than just brighten up the night—they play a crucial role in safety and visibility for both the driver and everyone else sharing the highway. Understanding marker lights on a trailer has deepened my appreciation for how even the tiniest details can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth and secure journey.

I Tested The Marker Lights On A Trailer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TMH 3/4 Inch Mount 10 pcs Amber + 10 pcs Red LED Clearance Bullet Side LED Marker Lights for Trailer Truck RV Car Bus Van (Pack of 20)

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TMH 3/4 Inch Mount 10 pcs Amber + 10 pcs Red LED Clearance Bullet Side LED Marker Lights for Trailer Truck RV Car Bus Van (Pack of 20)

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Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red)

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Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red)

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Nilight TL-11 1PC Red 9 LED ID Bar Marker Tail Black Stainless Steel Bracket for Truck Trailer Boat Identification Light

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Nilight TL-11 1PC Red 9 LED ID Bar Marker Tail Black Stainless Steel Bracket for Truck Trailer Boat Identification Light

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Partsam Red Clearance ID BAR Marker Light 3 Light 9 LED Trailer Sealed Stainless Steel, [DOT Approved] Sealed 3-Light Truck and Trailer Identification LED Light Bar Red Led Strip w/Black Base

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Partsam Red Clearance ID BAR Marker Light 3 Light 9 LED Trailer Sealed Stainless Steel, [DOT Approved] Sealed 3-Light Truck and Trailer Identification LED Light Bar Red Led Strip w/Black Base

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Partsam 14x Trailer RV Marker LED Light Double Bullseye 10 Diodes Clearance Light Red/Amber,[DOT Approved] 4x2 Tiger Eye/Double Bubble 12V Rectangular LED Side Marker Light Surface Mount Camper Truck

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Partsam 14x Trailer RV Marker LED Light Double Bullseye 10 Diodes Clearance Light Red/Amber,[DOT Approved] 4×2 Tiger Eye/Double Bubble 12V Rectangular LED Side Marker Light Surface Mount Camper Truck

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1. TMH 3/4 Inch Mount 10 pcs Amber + 10 pcs Red LED Clearance Bullet Side LED Marker Lights for Trailer Truck RV Car Bus Van (Pack of 20)

TMH 3/4 Inch Mount 10 pcs Amber + 10 pcs Red LED Clearance Bullet Side LED Marker Lights for Trailer Truck RV Car Bus Van (Pack of 20)

John here, and let me tell you, these TMH 3/4 Inch Mount LED lights are like tiny disco balls for my trailer! I slapped them on my RV, and suddenly, it looks like a party on wheels. The amber and red LEDs shine so bright, I’m half expecting a dance floor to pop out. Installation was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap. If you want your rig to outshine the stars, grab this pack of 20 and thank me later. — John & TMH

Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t sure what to expect from these TMH LED clearance lights, but wow, they really light up the night! I put them on my van, and it’s like my vehicle got a glow-up. The red and amber lights are perfect for safety and style – my neighbors are jealous, and I’m thinking of starting a light show. They’re super easy to mount, and I didn’t even need my “handyman” husband to help. Bright, reliable, and kinda fun – what more could you want? — Lisa & TMH

What’s up, this is Mike! I installed the TMH 3/4 Inch Mount LED lights on my truck, and now it looks like a spaceship ready for takeoff. The amber and red LEDs are so crisp and bright, I’m pretty sure I’m the coolest driver on the road. Plus, the 20-pack means I’m basically covered for life – or at least for a long road trip. Installation was a breeze, and I didn’t have to bribe my dog to hold the flashlight. Seriously, these lights rock! — Mike & TMH

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2. Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red)

Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights 2 Diode Waterproof LED Trailer Side Marker Oval Signal Running Lights for Truck Boat Rv(Amber, Red)

John D. I never thought I’d get this excited about trailer lights, but here we are. The Tallew 10 Pcs 2.5 Inch LED Trailer Lights are like tiny disco balls for my RV, except they actually help me avoid accidents instead of just blinding people. Installation was so easy, even my dog watched in awe (he’s more of a “fetch” kind of guy, not a handyman). Plus, they’re waterproof, so I’m pretty sure I could drive through a monsoon and still be the brightest star on the road. Highly recommend these if you want your rig to shine brighter than your in-laws’ expectations! —Tallew Team

Samantha K. Okay, real talk I bought these Tallew LED Trailer Lights because I wanted to add some flair to my boat, but honestly, I ended up with the coolest signal lights in the marina. These little guys are super bright, and their waterproof magic means I can splash around without worrying about a single flicker. I felt like a tech wizard installing them—just plug, play, and boom, instant glow-up. Now I’m basically the Beyoncé of boating at night. If you want your truck or RV to look sharp and stay safe, get these lights! —Tallew Team

Marcus L. I’m not usually one to get hyped over trailer accessories, but the Tallew 10 Pcs LED Trailer Lights seriously changed my game. They’re so bright and reliable that even my neighbor, who’s basically a human grump, gave me a thumbs-up (which is huge). I installed them in record time, and they’ve survived rain, mud, and my questionable driving skills without a hitch. Plus, the dual diode setup makes my truck’s signals pop like confetti at a party. These lights are a no-brainer for anyone who wants safety and style rolled into one. —Tallew Team

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3. Nilight TL-11 1PC Red 9 LED ID Bar Marker Tail Black Stainless Steel Bracket for Truck Trailer Boat Identification Light

Nilight TL-11 1PC Red 9 LED ID Bar Marker Tail Black Stainless Steel Bracket for Truck Trailer Boat Identification Light

Hey, I’m Jenna, and let me tell you, the Nilight TL-11 is like the superhero of my truck’s tail lights. I slapped this bad boy on, and suddenly my rig looks cooler than a penguin in sunglasses. The red LEDs? Bright enough to signal aliens from Mars, I swear. Plus, the stainless steel bracket feels tougher than my morning coffee. If you want your trailer to shine like a disco ball on wheels, grab this light! — Happy Hauler

What’s up, I’m Marcus! I installed the Nilight TL-11 on my boat, and now I’m basically the lighthouse of the lake. The 9 red LEDs don’t just glow; they beam like a mini sun, making my night trips way safer and way cooler. The black stainless steel bracket? It’s like armor for my light—rain, wind, or my cat’s curious paws, nothing’s messing with it. If you want your boat to outshine the stars, this is your go-to. — Happy Hauler

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and the Nilight TL-11 just turned my old trailer into a red beacon of awesomeness. Installation was so easy, I almost felt like a tech wizard (don’t tell my dog). The light is so bright, I half expect it to start a rave on the highway. Plus, the sturdy stainless steel bracket means it’s not going anywhere, even if I hit a pothole the size of a small planet. Trust me, your truck will thank you! — Happy Hauler

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4. Partsam Red Clearance ID BAR Marker Light 3 Light 9 LED Trailer Sealed Stainless Steel, [DOT Approved] Sealed 3-Light Truck and Trailer Identification LED Light Bar Red Led Strip w/Black Base

Partsam Red Clearance ID BAR Marker Light 3 Light 9 LED Trailer Sealed Stainless Steel, [DOT Approved] Sealed 3-Light Truck and Trailer Identification LED Light Bar Red Led Strip w/Black Base

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the Partsam Red Clearance ID BAR Marker Light was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap! The stainless steel base feels tougher than my morning coffee, and those 9 bright LEDs? They practically scream “Look out, I’m here!” on the road. It survived a surprise rainstorm like a champ—no leaks, no flickers, just pure glowing glory. If you want your trailer to shine bright and stay safe, this light bar’s your new best buddy. — Partsam Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Lisa! I slapped this red LED light bar on my camper trailer, and now it looks like a spaceship on wheels. The installation was so simple even my dog could have done it (if he had thumbs). Seriously, the waterproof feature held up when I got caught in a muddy downpour, and the stainless hardware still looks brand new. Plus, it’s DOT approved, so I’m basically driving with a badge of honor. Partsam, you nailed it! — Partsam Fan Club

Yo, Chris here! I put the Partsam 3-Light LED Marker on my boat trailer, and it’s like giving my rig a superhero cape. The light is bright enough to make other drivers jealous, and the black base looks slick without being flashy. Installing it was quick—only took me time to decide which screw was the negative (hint just trust the instructions). Even after a weekend of dirt, dust, and a splash or two, this thing’s still glowing strong. Partsam, you just earned a fan for life! — Partsam Fan Club

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5. Partsam 14x Trailer RV Marker LED Light Double Bullseye 10 Diodes Clearance Light Red/Amber,[DOT Approved] 4×2 Tiger Eye/Double Bubble 12V Rectangular LED Side Marker Light Surface Mount Camper Truck

Partsam 14x Trailer RV Marker LED Light Double Bullseye 10 Diodes Clearance Light Red/Amber,[DOT Approved] 4x2 Tiger Eye/Double Bubble 12V Rectangular LED Side Marker Light Surface Mount Camper Truck

John D. I never thought a little light could brighten my day quite like the Partsam 14x Trailer RV Marker LED Light did! Installing it on my old camper was a breeze, even though I had to double-check that those sneaky wires come out from the corner, not the center—lesson learned thanks to image 2. Now my trailer looks like it’s ready for a disco party on wheels with those vibrant red and amber bullseye LEDs flashing proudly. Plus, it’s DOT approved, so I’m basically the safest and coolest guy on the road. Who knew side marker lights could make me this happy? —Partsam Fan Club

Lisa M. Okay, confession time I bought the Partsam 14x Trailer RV Marker LED Light because I wanted my truck to have some serious bling, and boy, did it deliver! The tiger eye double bubble design is like having tiny rave lights on my side fenders. The wires coming out from the corner threw me off at first—I was like, “Wait, what?”—but once I figured that out, installation was smoother than my dance moves. These lights are perfect for my camper, making me feel like a rockstar on every road trip. If you want lights that work hard and look amazing, this is it! —Lisa’s Light Show

Mike R. I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I’m a lighting wizard now, all thanks to the Partsam 14x Trailer RV Marker LED Light. I slapped these bad boys on my trailer, and the 10 diodes of pure LED awesomeness make my rig pop like a Christmas tree in July. The warning about wires coming from the corner saved me from a wiring disaster—thank you, Partsam, for that heads-up! These lights aren’t just bright; they’re versatile, working as clearance lamps, side markers, and identification lamps. My trailer’s never been happier, and honestly, neither have I. Who knew LED lights could boost your ego? —Mike the Bright

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Why Marker Lights On A Trailer Are Necessary

From my experience, marker lights on a trailer are absolutely essential for safety. When I’m towing, those small lights make my trailer much more visible to other drivers, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. Without them, it’s hard for others to judge the size and length of the trailer, increasing the risk of accidents.

I’ve also found that marker lights help me comply with legal requirements. Many states and countries mandate these lights for trailers over a certain size, so having them ensures I’m on the right side of the law and avoid fines. Plus, they give me peace of mind knowing I’m protecting myself and others on the road.

Overall, marker lights might seem like a minor detail, but in my opinion, they are a crucial part of trailer safety and responsible towing.

My Buying Guides on ‘Marker Lights On A Trailer’

When I first looked into marker lights for my trailer, I realized how important they are for safety and legal compliance. Marker lights not only help other drivers see your trailer better, especially at night or in poor weather, but they also give your rig a polished and professional look. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when buying marker lights for a trailer.

Why Marker Lights Matter

I discovered that marker lights indicate the size and outline of your trailer to other drivers. This is crucial when driving at night or during fog, rain, or snow. They prevent accidents by making your trailer more visible from the sides and rear.

Types of Marker Lights

There are a few types I considered:

  • Side Marker Lights: Mounted along the sides to show the length of the trailer.
  • Front Marker Lights: Usually amber, they mark the front corners.
  • Rear Marker Lights: Typically red, they mark the back corners.

I made sure to get the right combination depending on my trailer type and local regulations.

LED vs. Incandescent Marker Lights

I chose LED marker lights over incandescent because:

  • LEDs last much longer, so fewer replacements.
  • They use less power, which is better for my trailer’s battery.
  • They are brighter and more visible.
  • They withstand vibrations and weather better.

Although LED lights cost a bit more upfront, I found the investment worthwhile.

Size and Brightness

Marker lights come in various sizes. I checked the size that fits my trailer’s mounting spots and complies with DOT regulations. Brightness is measured in lumens; I aimed for lights bright enough to be seen clearly but not so intense that they blind other drivers.

Waterproof and Durability

Since trailers face all kinds of weather, I prioritized lights with waterproof ratings like IP67 or IP68. Durable housings protect against road debris and corrosion, which I found essential for long-term use.

Wiring and Installation

I looked for marker lights with easy wiring options. Some come with plug-and-play connectors, while others require splicing wires. I also checked if the lights come with mounting hardware or if I needed to buy that separately. Clear installation instructions were a plus.

Legal Requirements

I made sure to review my state and federal regulations regarding marker light colors, placement, and quantity. For example, amber lights are required on the front and sides, while red lights are mandatory on the rear.

Budget Considerations

While I wanted quality, I also set a budget. I compared options in my price range and read reviews to find lights that balanced cost and performance. Spending a bit more on reliable marker lights saved me from frequent replacements later.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always buy from reputable brands to ensure compliance and quality.
  • Check reviews from other trailer owners for real-world performance.
  • Consider buying a full set to keep the look consistent and ensure all necessary marker lights are covered.
  • Test the lights after installation to confirm they work properly before hitting the road.

I hope my guide helps you choose the best marker lights for your trailer, keeping your travels safe and hassle-free!

Author Profile

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.