White Z 4 Show

how come if I put in DOT approved Hella lights they can still fail inspection but my buddy in an 00 civic bought projector style angel eye headlights (with DOT # stamped on the lights) and he will pass inspection but I probably won't. Why is that? (please no rice comments, I was only using that as an example). Does the aftermarket firebird lights pass inspection (at any garage, not the one your buddy works at)

Thanks and please give me any advice as long as its constructive.