What type of light must illuminate the rear license plate for clarity?

The requirement for the rear license plate to be illuminated with white light is based on visibility standards set by transportation regulations. White light provides clear and even illumination, ensuring that the text and numbers on the license plate are easily readable from a reasonable distance, particularly at night or in low-light conditions. This visibility is crucial for law enforcement and other drivers to identify vehicles for legal and safety purposes.

Using other colors, such as red, amber, or blue, does not meet these standards as they can hinder the readability of the license plate. Red light could create confusion, as it is often associated with stop signals and warnings, while amber light is typically used for cautionary purposes. Blue light is primarily used for emergency vehicles and could lead to misinterpretations regarding the nature of the vehicle. Therefore, the regulation specifies that white light is the appropriate choice for illuminating rear license plates for maximum clarity.