Reflective USDOT decals
Add reflective film to any lettering decal. The whole decal is printed on reflective film, so your name and numbers show up when headlights hit them at night.
Build a reflective decal → USDOT decal, reflective
What reflective film does
Reflective (retroreflective) film sends light from headlights and streetlights back toward its source. A decal printed on it is easier to see from another vehicle at night than the same decal on standard vinyl. In daylight it looks like a normal decal.
The film reflects through the whole decal, not only certain letters. Lighter colors reflect the most; dark colors reflect much less, so a white or yellow background with black lettering is the strongest combination for night visibility.
What it costs
Reflective is an add-on to the normal decal price. The extra depends on the decal's width and how many lines it carries, because a wider or taller decal uses more film.
| Decal width | 1 or 2 lines | 3 or more lines |
|---|---|---|
| 12 inches | +$5 | +$9 |
| 18 inches | +$9 | +$16 |
| 24 inches | +$15 | +$26 |
Example: the USDOT decal sticker at 18 inches is $18.99 on standard vinyl and $27.99 on reflective film. Shipping is $7.99, free from $99.
How to order
- Open the door builder or any lettering product, such as the USDOT and MC two-line decal.
- Type your lines and pick the width and colors.
- Tick Reflective film. The price updates straight away.
- Add it to the cart. One decal for each door, so order two for both sides.
Do you need reflective?
No. The federal marking rule asks for the legal or trade name and the USDOT number on both sides of the vehicle in letters that contrast sharply with the background and can be read from 50 feet in daylight while the vehicle is stopped. It does not require a reflective material, and some states add rules of their own. Read the USDOT display rules and confirm with FMCSA or your state. Reflective film is a choice for night visibility, and it is not a substitute for the trailer conspicuity tape that trailers carry under separate rules.
For a longer comparison, see reflective vs standard vinyl for truck lettering. To compare prices before you start, use the price calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is the whole decal reflective, or just the letters?
The whole decal. With the reflective option, the entire decal is printed on reflective film, so the background and the lettering are on the same material. Lighter colors reflect the most light back, and dark colors reflect much less.
Do I have to use reflective film for my USDOT number?
No. The federal marking rule asks for the name and USDOT number in letters that contrast sharply with the background and can be read from 50 feet in daylight while the vehicle is stopped. It does not name a reflective material. Reflective film is an extra for night visibility, not a requirement.
How much more does reflective cost?
It adds a fixed amount per decal that depends on the width and the number of lines, because a bigger decal uses more film. For a decal with one or two lines it is $5 at 12 inches, $9 at 18 inches and $15 at 24 inches. With three or more lines it is $9, $16 and $26.
Can I get reflective in any color?
Every sticker color and lettering color we offer can be printed on reflective film. Lighter combinations such as black on white or black on yellow show up best in headlights.
Is this the same as the reflective tape on trailers?
No. Conspicuity tape on trailers is a different product with its own rules. Reflective film for lettering is for names and numbers on doors and panels. Check FMCSA and your trailer maker for tape requirements.
How do I put it on?
The same way as any decal in the package instructions: clean the surface, hold it with a tape hinge and squeegee from the middle out. Reflective film goes on dry, and it is best applied when the surface is 60°F or warmer.