Can NOS be legal on cars in America?

It’s perfectly normal to want to modify your vehicle other than to make it look more appealing or perform better. A popular upgrade is to have nitrous oxide injected. However, this leads to an important question. It is legal to install nitrous oxide in your vehicle in the United States.

The use of Nitrous in automobiles is legal in the United States. But, the NOS laws in each state are different. It’s also not illegal to store or transport the gas but is unlawful to use it as an inhalant. To drive on tracks or private property with nitrous oxide, it is legal.

This guide will cover a number of state laws that you need to be aware. Other modifications might be illegal are also discussed. 

Double-check the laws in your area and Federal before you make a final decision. This article is not intended to be a legal opinion.

State Nitrous Laws

1. California

At first glance, one might think that nitrous modifications are legal in California because the Penal Code 381b only talks about possessing nitrous oxide “with the intent to breathe, inhale or ingest” as a misdemeanor. Many enthusiasts have taken this to mean it’s completely legal to hook it up in the car.

California law makes it illegal to use nitrous devices, regardless of whether or not they have been hooked up. There will be drivers complaining that the equipment was in their vehicle when they were at the track. But it is totally disconnected. Each intake must have a C.A.R.B. California has made it illegal for the set-up to contain a number. 

2. Texas

Texas laws also make it illegal to inhale nitrous. But, laws regarding automobile use are not in place. For the most part, it’s considered legal to have, just not to use for street racing.

In some counties, testing is mandatory. Nitrous consumption can also affect emission standards. With that said, Texas only has three “Aftermarket Modification” rules listed on the TxDPS website. These issues concern Vehicle Lighting, Vehicle Height Adjustment, and Air Intake Modifications.

3. Florida

As with the other states, it’s illegal to use nitrous as an inhalant. The laws are a bit more complicated beyond that.

Most law enforcement officers agree that it’s legal to have nitrous oxide, just not to use it on the street. There are many opinions on the question of whether the bottles can be hooked up. Street racing with nitrous cans is a dangerous sport. You should expect some trouble. 

4. New York

The laws of this state are complex and difficult to understand. But, the 10-163 state that Nitrous owners are limited to 2 bottles and no specific size. 

Street racing, whether you use nitrous, is illegal. In that law, it specifically states, “the presence of a canister appearing to hold nitrous oxide attached to a vehicle;” is also considered illegal.

5. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's laws regarding nitrous oxide are more open-minded. It is clear that the gas should not be inhaled illegally.

Beyond that, it is also illegal to have an N2O bottle within the vehicle unless it’s disconnected. Only transporting it from or to a track can you find it in the vehicle.

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Another possible illegal car modification

1. The Lifted Suspension

The most popular modification to trucks is adding a lift kit. A lift kit may alter the driving dynamics and create a dangerous situation. Some states also have laws on lift kits.

Connecticut for instance, allows only lift kits with a height of four inches. What’s even more restrictive is the law in Georgia, which only allows for two more inches of ground clearance. 

2. Rolled coal

The EPA He has much to say on the topic of vehicle emission control. That’s why there’s nothing legal about rolling coal. Rolling coal is a term for diesel engines that consume more fuel.

 This has been ruled illegal by the EPA, and many other states are now following suit. Black smoke can be a problem in Maryland and other states such as New Jersey, Illinois, Colorado, New Jersey or New Jersey. 

3. Tint for darkened windows

Dark window tint has its purposes, whether you are trying to gain some privacy or you don’t want the hot sun baking you while you drive. There are some dangers to dark tint, such as making it harder for others to see you when the visibility is low. Of course, some tint also makes it impossible for others to see you, which police officers aren’t fond of.

There are specific laws in each state that limit the amount of darkening your car's tint. Most regulations apply to the side and rear windows because window tint in the front isn’t typically legal. If you're an Alaska driver, for example, the side window tint should allow 70% light through and the rear only 40%.

4. Air Conditioning

A cold air intake is a good modification for anyone who wants to increase the power output of their engine. If you spend a lot on well-respected brands, it can improve horsepower and fuel efficiency. However, cold air intakes aren’t always legal.

California law requires cold air intakes to be certified. This state forbids any modifications that affect the vehicle’s emissions. It’s how the state cuts down on pollution and works toward becoming more carbon neutral. You should ensure that your new cold-air intake is exempted from the CARBEO Exemption Number before installing it. If you are caught, you could face a very heavy fine.