NJ Form BLS-34A: Amber Warning Light Permit Guide

NJ Form BLS-34A: Amber Warning Light Permit Guide – Public utility company employees in New Jersey who must use a personal or family-owned vehicle for official duties can legally display an amber warning light under specific conditions. The official form for this authorization is the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Form BLS-34A, titled “Amber Warning Light Permit Application – Public Utility Company Employee.”

This guide explains eligibility, requirements, the application process, fees, light specifications, and where to submit Form BLS-34A. All information is based on current New Jersey statutes (N.J.S.A. 39:3-54.24 and related regulations) and official MVC guidance.

What Is Form BLS-34A?

Form BLS-34A is the specialized application used by authorized employees of public utility companies to obtain a permit allowing the temporary use of an amber warning light on a motor vehicle they or a family member own or lease. The light is provided by the utility company and may only be operated while the employee performs official duties on a public highway.

The form became available following legislation effective February 1, 2009. It is distinct from the general flashing amber light application (Form BLS-34), which covers tow trucks, service vehicles, snow-removal equipment, and certain contractors.

You can download the official PDF form directly from the New Jersey MVC:

Download New Jersey Form BLS-34A (PDF)

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligibility is limited to authorized employees of a public utility company who are required, as part of their official duties, to use a motor vehicle owned or leased by themselves or a member of their family. Key conditions include:

  • The vehicle must be registered as a passenger vehicle (not commercial registration in most cases under this specific permit).
  • The amber light is supplied by the public utility company.
  • The light may be used only while the vehicle is operated on a public highway during the performance of official utility duties.

These rules are established under N.J.S.A. 39:3-54.24 and N.J.A.C. 13:24-4.1(a)4.

Key Requirements for the Amber Warning Light

The permit imposes strict technical and operational rules:

  • The light must be a temporarily attached, removable flashing or revolving type.
  • Maximum diameter: 7½ inches.
  • It must be controlled by a switch installed inside the vehicle.
  • While in operation, the light must be conspicuously displayed on the roof of the vehicle.
  • The permit document must be in the employee’s possession whenever the light is displayed.
  • A magnetic company logo sign (provided by the utility) may be affixed to the exterior of the front driver’s side door, but only while performing official duties. It must be removed at all other times.

The light may be operated solely for the protection of the public and the utility employee. Operators must still obey all New Jersey traffic laws and drive with due regard for the safety of others.

How to Complete and Submit Form BLS-34A?

Follow these steps carefully to avoid delays:

  1. Download the current Form BLS-34A from the official MVC website (link above).
  2. Complete the Employee Information section (name, full address, driver’s license number, daytime phone, and a detailed description of duties and counties where the light will be used).
  3. Provide Vehicle Information for each vehicle: make, model, year, VIN, license plate number, registered owner/lessee name and address, and the relationship of the owner/lessee to the applicant.
  4. Both the employee and an authorized representative of the public utility company must sign the application.
  5. Attach required supporting documents:
    • Copy of the vehicle registration
    • Legible copy of the driver’s license (and Social Security card if the license is not from New Jersey)
    • Copy of the lease agreement if the vehicle is leased
  6. Include a check payable to “NJMVC” or “New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission” for the total fee.

Mail the completed package to:

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Business Licensing Services Bureau
P.O. Box 171
Trenton, NJ 08666-0171

For questions, contact Business Licensing Services at (609) 292-6500, extension 5014 (select option 6 for light permits). Spanish-language assistance is available at extension 5008.

Permit Fees and Validity Period

The fee is $25 per vehicle for both the initial issuance and each subsequent renewal. The permit is valid for four years from the date of issuance or until the employee’s termination of employment that qualified them for the permit, whichever is shorter. The permit is non-transferable.

Termination of the qualifying employment or sale/transfer of the vehicle automatically cancels the permit. The permit holder must surrender it to the MVC within 10 business days of cancellation or revocation.

Penalties for Misuse

Any person authorized to display an amber warning light or the company magnetic sign who willfully uses them in violation of the law is subject to a penalty of up to $100. The MVC may also cancel, suspend, or revoke the permit.

Additional Official Resources

Always verify the most current version of Form BLS-34A and any regulatory updates directly on the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website before submitting an application. Requirements and contact details can change.

Last updated based on official NJ MVC and statutory sources as of 2026.

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