Texas § HS.773.017 - USE OF CERTAIN EXTERNAL MOTOR VEHICLE MARKINGS OR FEATURES PROHIBITED
Full text of Texas The Texas Constitution § HS.773.017 — USE OF CERTAIN EXTERNAL MOTOR VEHICLE MARKINGS OR FEATURES PROHIBITED, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ HS.773.017. USE OF CERTAIN EXTERNAL MOTOR VEHICLE MARKINGS OR FEATURES PROHIBITED
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". (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 Section 504.501 or 504.502 , Transportation Code. Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 253 (H.B. 1249 ), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017. SUBCHAPTER B. STATE PLAN FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES
Source: official Texas text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas § HS.773.017
What does The Texas Constitution § HS.773.017 cover?
Section HS.773.017 ("USE OF CERTAIN EXTERNAL MOTOR VEHICLE MARKINGS OR FEATURES PROHIBITED") is part of the The Texas Constitution, the codified statutory law of Texas. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Texas § HS.773.017?
A common citation format is "The Texas Constitution § HS.773.017" (Texas). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Texas law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Texas official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Texas attorney.
How does Texas § HS.773.017 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Texas can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Texas.