Section 790. EMS vehicle letter restrictions and specifications

A. The following specifications apply to an EMS vehicle: the EMS agency name must appear in lettering larger than any optional lettering on an EMS vehicle, other than "Ambulance," the unit identification number or any lettering on the roof. Optional lettering, logos or emblems may not appear on an EMS vehicle in a manner that interferes with the public's ability to readily identify the EMS agency to which the EMS vehicle is permitted.

1. Additional lettering, logos or emblems must not advertise or imply a specified patient care level (i.e., Advanced Life Support Unit) unless the EMS vehicle is so equipped at all times.

2. The terms "Paramedic" or "Paramedical" may only be used when the EMS vehicle is both equipped and staffed by a state certified Paramedic at all times.

B. A nontransport response vehicle with a primary purpose as a fire apparatus or law-enforcement vehicle is not required to comply with the specifications for vehicle marking and lettering, provided the vehicle is appropriately marked and lettered to identify it as an authorized emergency vehicle.

C. An unmarked vehicle operated by an EMS agency is not eligible for issuance of an EMS vehicle permit except a vehicle used and operated by law-enforcement personnel.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 19, Issue 3 and Volume 19, Issue 9, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 01, eff. October 10, 2012.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.