D.C. Mun. Regs. r. 18-700
The rules and regulations contained in this chapter shall govern the requirements for vehicle equipment on vehicles registered in or using the streets and highways of the District of Columbia, including but not limited to lighting equipment, safety glass, brakes, horns and other warning devices, and safety belts.
No person shall drive or move, or cause or knowingly permit to be driven or moved, on any street or highway any vehicle or combination of vehicles which is in such unsafe condition as to endanger any person, or which does not contain those parts or is not at all times equipped with such lamps and other equipment in proper condition and adjustment as required in this chapter, or which is equipped in any manner in violation of this chapter, and no person shall do any act forbidden or fail to perform any act required under this chapter.
Where the Director has found that a vehicle is not of conventional design and construction, or where proof is offered that equipment as required by this chapter is not available for replacement purposes or cannot be made available by the manufacturer, that vehicle may be exempted from the requirements of this chapter, upon issuance by the Director of an "approved" inspection sticker. In the case of temporary unavailability of required replacement equipment, an "approved" sticker may be issued for the period of time deemed necessary by the Director.
Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit the use of additional parts and accessories on any vehicle not inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter.
The provisions of this chapter which require equipment on vehicles shall not apply to implements of husbandry, road machinery, road rollers, or farm tractors, except as specifically provided in this chapter.
The current edition of the Washington, DC Vehicle Inspection Program Lane Operator's Manual (also referred to as the "Lane Operator's Manual") or when applicable, to the current edition of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrator's Vehicle Inspection Manual (also referred to as the "AAMVA Manual"), which describes in detail certain standards, types, and various requirements regarding mechanical and other equipment relating to the safe operation of motor vehicles, is incorporated by reference in this chapter.
In case of conflict between the provisions of the current edition of the "Lane Operator's Manual", or when applicable, to the current edition of the "AAMVA Manual" and those contained in this chapter, the provisions of this chapter shall be applicable. Copies of the current edition of the "Lane Operator's Manual" and the current edition of the "AAMVA Manual" are available in the Office of the Director.
Noise control regulations for motor vehicles are contained in the District of Columbia Noise Control Act of 1977.
All motor vehicles must display a manufacturer's certification of compliance, attesting that the vehicle complies with federal safety standards for use on public roads, streets, and highways, as required by the National Traffic and Motor Safety Act of 1966 (49 USC 30115) or have received a temporary exemption from specified federal motor vehicle safety standards by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
D.C. Mun. Regs. r. 18-700