Truck running boards with lights do more than look sharp—they make stepping in and out easier after dark and add useful side visibility around your truck.
In this roundup, we focus on practical options for different cab sizes, power-step systems, and lighting kits so you can choose the right fit without guesswork.
Best 10 Truck Running Boards with Lights Picks for 2026
Best Value LED Strip Kit
Nilight 60 Inch Running Board Lights
- 144 LEDs with white courtesy and amber signal modes
- IP67 waterproof tube with adhesive plus hardware support
- Universal 12V fit for trucks, SUVs, vans, and trailers
Best For: Universal-fit buyers who want bright step lighting and sequential signals
OEM-Style Power Step Upgrade
WOLFBOX F150 Supercrew Power Running Boards
- Automatic retractable steps with integrated LED lighting
- Vehicle-specific fit for select Ford Supercrew Cab models
- No-drill install with 660-lb strength and 5-year warranty
Best For: Ford Supercrew owners seeking a premium retractable step system
Sequential Signal Pick
OPT7 Sidekick 78 Inch Running Board Lights
- Sequential amber turn signals with white courtesy lighting
- IP67 waterproof with weather-resistant silicone build
- 78-inch 2-piece kit for crew and extended cabs
Best For: Drivers who want a standout signal-and-courtesy light strip
Heavy-Duty Retractable Steps
Rough Country Power Running Boards for Silverado and Sierra
- Automatic retractable electric steps with integrated LED lights
- 6-inch anti-slip aluminum steps with SAFE-STOP protection
- Fits select Chevy and GMC crew cab gas models only
Best For: GM crew cab drivers wanting durable retractable steps with lights
Sequential Courtesy Strip Lights
OPT7 86" Sidekick Running Board Lights
- Sequential amber turn signals for road visibility
- White courtesy light for door-open step assist
- IP67 waterproof with 3M tape and 1-year warranty
Best For: Crew cab trucks needing bright step lighting and sequential signal style
Power Retractable Step Lights
Rough Country LED Running Boards
- Dual-motor retractable boards with integrated LED lights
- Textured anti-slip surface and 660 lb. capacity
- No-drill install with 5-year warranty
Best For: Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra crew cab drivers wanting illuminated electric steps
Bright Peel-and-Stick Light Strips
Nilight 48" Running Board Lights
- 114 LEDs with white courtesy and amber sequential signals
- 48-inch strip fits regular cab, two-door trucks only
- IP67 waterproof with peel-and-stick installation
Best For: Regular cab trucks needing simple, bright side-step lighting
Heavy-Duty Selectable LED Step Up
Rough Country AC2 LED Running Boards
- Selectable amber or white LEDs
- One-piece steel with powder coat
- Bolt-on install, no cutting required
Best For: Silverado and Sierra Crew Cab owners who want sturdy lighted steps
Flexible Universal Light Strip Set
70-Inch Truck LED Running Board Lights
- 216 LEDs per strip with white and amber modes
- Flexible, waterproof 70-inch strip design
- Includes adhesive, brackets, and wiring hardware
Best For: Universal-fit buyers wanting a customizable lighting strip
Bright Courtesy-and-Signal Strip
Nilight 70-Inch Truck LED Running Board Lights
- 216 LEDs with white courtesy and amber signals
- IP67 waterproof with strong adhesive backing
- Includes mounts, screws, and connectors
Best For: Pickup owners who want bright courtesy lighting and turn signals
Best Value LED Strip Kit – Nilight 60 Inch Running Board Lights
If you want truck running boards with lights that add both visibility and a turn-signal upgrade, this Nilight 60-inch strip kit is a practical universal-fit option. It combines white courtesy lighting and sequential amber signaling in one setup, with a waterproof tube design and peel-and-stick installation for straightforward add-on use.
Best For: Drivers who want an easy-to-install, universal running board light kit with white step lighting and amber sequential turn signals.
Pros:
- Uses 144 high-intensity LEDs split between white courtesy lights and amber sequential turn signals.
- IP67 waterproof transparent tube helps it handle rain and road conditions.
- No-drill install with adhesive backing, plus included mounts, screws, and zip ties for added security.
- Works with 12V vehicles and can serve as marker, step, parking, or DRL lighting.
Cons:
- Universal fit means installation and wiring may take more planning than a vehicle-specific step system.
- Does not include a remote.
This is a strong choice if you want a lighting-only upgrade rather than full power steps. It stands out for brightness, weather protection, and flexible use across trucks, SUVs, vans, and trailers.
OEM-Style Power Step Upgrade – WOLFBOX F150 Supercrew Power Running Boards
For truck running boards with lights that function as a full step system, this WOLFBOX power running board setup is aimed at specific Ford Supercrew cab fitments. The retractable design, LED step lighting, and no-drill install give it a clean OEM-style feel for drivers who want convenience as much as illumination.
Best For: Ford F-150 and Super Duty Supercrew Cab owners who want automatic retractable steps with integrated LED lighting.
Pros:
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2015-2020 F150 Supercrew Cab and 2017-2019 F250/F350/F450/F550 Super Duty Crew Cab.
- Automatic retractable steps keep the truck looking clean when closed.
- Integrated LED lights illuminate the step zone at night.
- No-drill installation and a 5-year limited warranty add value.
Cons:
- Only fits the listed Ford cab configurations.
- Heavier, more complex system than a simple light-strip upgrade.
This model is best if you want the step and the light in one premium package. It trades universal flexibility for a tailored fit, strong 660-lb capacity, and a more polished factory-like look.
Sequential Signal Pick – OPT7 Sidekick 78 Inch Running Board Lights
If your goal is to upgrade truck running boards with lights that stand out on the road, the OPT7 Sidekick focuses on sequential amber signaling and white courtesy illumination. The 78-inch strips are designed for crew and extended cabs, with a waterproof build and strong 3M tape for a clean exterior install.
Best For: Pickup owners who want a bright running board light kit with sequential amber turn signals and door-assist lighting.
Pros:
- Exclusive sequential amber turn signal function for added visibility.
- White courtesy lights activate when the doors open.
- IP67 waterproof and weather-resistant design for tough conditions.
- Authentic 3M tape helps keep the strips secure.
Cons:
- Universal fit still depends on having the right crew or extended cab size.
- Uses strip lighting rather than a full step assembly.
The Sidekick is a good match if you want a noticeable lighting signature instead of a structural step replacement. Its combination of sequential signaling, courtesy lighting, and weather protection makes it a strong visual upgrade.
Heavy-Duty Retractable Steps – Rough Country Power Running Boards for Silverado and Sierra
For truck running boards with lights that are built around daily use, this Rough Country system gives you automatic retractable steps with integrated LEDs. It is made for specific Chevy and GMC crew cab gas models, combining a low-profile look when closed with wider anti-slip footing when deployed.
Best For: Chevy and GMC crew cab owners who want retractable electric steps with LED lighting and a no-drill install.
Pros:
- Automatic deploy-and-retract operation keeps the truck looking clean.
- 6-inch wide aluminum steps with textured anti-slip surfaces improve footing.
- Integrated LED lights help in rain, mud, and low-light conditions.
- Dual motors, SAFE-STOP protection, and a 660-lb per side rating support heavy use.
Cons:
- Does not fit diesel or DEF-equipped trucks.
- Only works with listed Crew Cab Chevy and GMC applications.
This is a strong fit if you want a durable step system instead of an add-on light strip. It blends convenience, traction, and lighting into a package made for the right GM crew cab trucks.
Sequential Courtesy Strip Lights – OPT7 86" Sidekick Running Board Lights
If you want truck running boards with lights that do more than just glow at the step, the OPT7 Sidekick adds white courtesy lighting plus sequential amber turn signals in a long 86-inch strip. It is designed for 4-door crew cabs and is meant to sync to turn signals, courtesy lights, parking lights, or running lights, so it can serve both visibility and style on the side of the truck.
Best For: Crew cab owners who want bright step illumination with a sequential amber signal look.
Pros:
- Sequential amber turn signals are designed to stand out in daytime and stormy weather.
- White courtesy light activates when doors open for easier entry and exit.
- IP67 waterproof, weather-resistant construction is built for harsh conditions.
- Includes authentic 3M tape and lifetime technical support.
Cons:
- Installation may require additional wiring on longer vehicles.
- Must not be wired from the rear of the truck, or function can be incorrect.
- Made specifically for 4-door crew cabs, so fitment is limited.
Overall, this is a strong pick if you want a more custom lighting setup and are comfortable following the wiring directions carefully. Its appeal is the combination of road-facing sequential signaling and practical door-assist lighting in one strip.
Power Retractable Step Lights – Rough Country LED Running Boards
For truck running boards with lights that focus on convenience and factory-style integration, these Rough Country power running boards add electric retractable steps with built-in LED lighting. They are made for Silverado and Sierra crew cab models, using dual-motor deployment, a textured anti-slip surface, and automatic lighting when the boards deploy.
Best For: Silverado and Sierra Crew Cab owners who want retractable electric steps with integrated LEDs.
Pros:
- Dual-motor electric deployment and retraction for smooth operation.
- Built-in LED lights improve visibility when the boards deploy.
- Textured anti-slip surface and 660 lb. capacity support everyday use.
- No-drill installation and a 5-year warranty add value.
Cons:
- Fitment is limited to specific Chevy and GMC crew cab models.
- Heavier, more complex setup than fixed step lights.
- Higher-end power-step design may be more than some buyers need.
These are best viewed as a step-up solution for drivers who want illuminated running boards with automatic function, not just add-on light strips. The extra safety features and rocker-panel protection make them especially appealing for daily use in wet or icy conditions.
Bright Peel-and-Stick Light Strips – Nilight 48" Running Board Lights
If you are comparing truck running boards with lights for a regular cab, this Nilight kit is a straightforward strip-light option with white courtesy lighting and sequential amber turn signals. The 48-inch size is specifically noted for regular cab, two-door trucks, and the peel-and-stick design keeps installation simple without drilling.
Best For: Regular cab truck owners who want an easy-install side marker and courtesy light kit.
Pros:
- 114 high-intensity LEDs provide bright white and amber lighting.
- Sequential amber signal and white courtesy functions add useful visibility.
- IP67 waterproof tube and strong adhesive support outdoor use.
- No-drill install with wiring options for parking, door assist, and turn signals.
Cons:
- Only fits regular cab, two-door trucks, not extended or crew cabs.
- Adhesive installation still depends on a clean surface.
- Single-strip kit may be less robust than powered step systems.
This is a good fit if you want a versatile lighting strip that can work as a step light, marker light, or turn signal without a complicated install. Its main strength is simple compatibility for the right cab style and strong all-around brightness.
Heavy-Duty Selectable LED Step Up – Rough Country AC2 LED Running Boards
If you want truck running boards with lights that feel more like a rugged upgrade than a simple step, these Rough Country AC2 boards are built for that job. The one-piece steel construction, wide step surface, and selectable amber/white LEDs make them a practical fit for Silverado and Sierra Crew Cab owners who want safer nighttime entry plus a clean, heavy-duty look.
Best For: Silverado and Sierra Crew Cab drivers who want sturdy steel steps with automatic lighted entry.
Pros:
- Selectable amber or white LED lighting with a magnetic auto-on sensor
- Heavy-duty one-piece steel construction with black powder-coat protection
- Wide, low-profile step surface for easier cab access
- Bolt-on install with no cutting, welding, or drilling required
Cons:
- Vehicle-specific fit limits it to compatible Silverado and Sierra Crew Cab applications
- Heavier steel build may be more than some buyers need for a basic step
Overall, this is a strong pick if durability matters as much as lighting. The automatic illumination and lift-compatible design give it a useful edge for work trucks and lifted setups, while the limited lifetime warranty adds peace of mind.
Flexible Universal Light Strip Set – 70-Inch Truck LED Running Board Lights
For buyers comparing truck running boards with lights, this 2-piece strip set is aimed at adding visibility more than replacing the step itself. The flexible 70-inch design, switchback white/amber LEDs, and waterproof tube make it a practical exterior lighting add-on for trucks, SUVs, and other 12V vehicles.
Best For: Universal-fit truck owners who want a flexible light strip for step, marker, or signal use.
Pros:
- 216 LEDs per strip with white courtesy and amber signal lighting
- Flexible 70-inch strip design suited to extended and crew cab applications
- Waterproof plastic tube for better weather protection
- Includes adhesive tape, brackets, screws, connectors, and zip ties for installation
Cons:
- Universal fit means installation and results will depend on your specific vehicle
- Some setups may require extra electrical work, including a resistor on certain applications
This set makes sense if you want a customizable lighting strip rather than a dedicated step board. It offers a lot of lighting output and mounting options, but buyers should be comfortable handling wiring and fitment on their own.
Bright Courtesy-and-Signal Strip – Nilight 70-Inch Truck LED Running Board Lights
If your priority is bright, practical truck running boards with lights-style visibility, this Nilight set focuses on courtesy and signal functions rather than a full step platform. The 70-inch strips use 216 LEDs, switch between white courtesy lighting and sequential amber turn signals, and are built for easy peel-and-stick installation with extra mounting hardware included.
Best For: Truck and pickup owners who want bright courtesy lighting plus sequential amber signaling.
Pros:
- 216 LEDs per strip for strong white and amber output
- Sequential amber turn signals plus white courtesy lighting
- IP67 waterproof design with strong adhesive backing
- Includes brackets, screws, zip ties, and connectors for a more secure install
Cons:
- Universal fit means installation may vary by vehicle
- Strip-style lighting adds visibility but is not a heavy-duty running board step
This is a good option if you want a bright, weather-resistant strip that helps with entry visibility and turn signaling. The simple 12V setup and included hardware make it approachable, but it is best viewed as an exterior light upgrade rather than a replacement for a structural step.
How We Picked the Best Truck Running Boards with Lights
We prioritized fitment, ease of installation, lighting performance, weather resistance, and overall value. That means comparing actual cab compatibility, step width or retractable function, beam style, and how well each option supports everyday use in rain, snow, mud, and low-light parking lots.
We also favored products that balance visibility with a clean factory-style look, since many buyers want lighting that helps with access without being overly bright or complicated.
Quick Comparison
There are two main categories here: illuminated step lighting kits that upgrade existing running boards, and powered or fixed running boards with integrated lights. Lighting kits are best if you already have steps and want more side-marker visibility. Full running boards are the better choice if you want a complete step solution with automatic deployment or heavy-duty steel construction.
Lighting Kits Vs. Full Running Boards
If your goal is to improve nighttime visibility and accent your truck’s side profile, a lighting kit is usually the simpler upgrade. If your goal is easier cabin access, better ground clearance management, and a more finished build, an integrated running board system makes more sense.
Key Buying Factors for Truck Running Boards with Lights
Fitment: Confirm your cab type, model year, and trim before buying. Crew cab, extended cab, and SuperCrew fitments are not interchangeable.
Step height and width: Wider, lower steps are easier for kids, older passengers, and lifted trucks. Retractable boards help preserve clearance when closed.
Lighting style: White courtesy lighting helps when entering and exiting. Sequential amber turn signals add side visibility and a more premium look.
Durability: Look for sealed LEDs, corrosion-resistant housings, and rugged mounting hardware if your truck sees winter roads or off-road use.
Power and wiring: Electric boards need reliable motors, controls, and proper electrical integration. Lighting kits should have solid waterproof connectors and clear routing options.
Finish and maintenance: Powder-coated steel, aluminum, and textured black finishes each have trade-offs in weight, rust resistance, and appearance.
Who Should Buy Which Truck Running Boards with Lights?
Choose a lighting kit if you already like your current steps and mainly want better visibility and a custom look.
Choose power running boards if you want automatic convenience and a cleaner tucked-away profile when driving.
Choose heavy-duty fixed boards if you need maximum durability, simpler hardware, and dependable step access for work or fleet use.
For most shoppers, the best choice comes down to whether you want an appearance-and-safety upgrade or a complete step-system replacement. If you match the product to your cab and daily use, Truck Running Boards with Lights can improve both function and confidence every time you get in or out.