(1) As used in this section, the term:

(a) “Blue dot tail light” means a red lamp that contains a blue or purple insert that is not more than one inch in diameter and is installed in the rear of a motor vehicle.

(b) “Custom vehicle” means a motor vehicle that:

1. Is 25 years old or older and of a model year after 1948 or was manufactured to resemble a vehicle that is 25 years old or older and of a model year after 1948; and

2. Has been altered from the manufacturer’s original design or has a body constructed from nonoriginal materials.

(c) “Street rod” means a motor vehicle that:

1. Is of a model year of 1948 or older or was manufactured after 1948 to resemble a vehicle of a model year of 1948 or older; and

2. Has been altered from the manufacturer’s original design or has a body constructed from nonoriginal materials.

(2) The model year and year of manufacture which the body of a custom vehicle or street rod resembles is the model year and year of manufacture listed on the certificate of title, regardless of when the vehicle was actually manufactured.

(3) To register a street rod or custom vehicle, the owner shall apply to the department by submitting a completed application form and providing:

(a) The license tax prescribed by s. 320.08(2)(a) and a processing fee of $3;

(b) A written statement that the vehicle will not be used for general daily transportation but will be maintained for occasional transportation, exhibitions, club activities, parades, tours, or other functions of public interest and similar uses; and

(c) A written statement that the vehicle meets state equipment and safety requirements for motor vehicles. However, the vehicle must meet only the requirements that were in effect in this state as a condition of sale in the year listed as the model year on the certificate of title.

(4) The registration numbers and special license plates assigned to such vehicles shall run in a separate series, commencing with “Custom Vehicle 1” or “Street Rod 1,” respectively, and the plates shall be of a distinguishing color and design.

(5)(a) A vehicle registered under this section is exempt from any law or local ordinance that requires periodic vehicle inspections or the use and inspection of emission controls.

(b) Such vehicle may also be equipped with blue dot tail lights for stop lamps, rear turning indicator lamps, rear hazard lamps, and rear reflectors.

History.—s. 2, ch. 83-19; s. 1, ch. 2007-165.