Question on a branch circuit

[Steppenwolfe]

There is one loophole to the general rule that the wire has to be the same size throughout: the wire between an outlet and a device can be smaller.

Install an outlet box. Put a plug cord on the lights and plug it into the outlet.

Great idea, those led's don't pull much anyway.

 

[CobyRupert]

Yes, but now the receptacle has be GFCI (as per 210.8 (B) 8).

The receptacle does not need to be GFCI if it is NOT 'readily accessible'. As in mounted 6 feet or more above grade. ( On the ceiling? ).

I am not aware of that. Where are you getting that from?
As per 2017 NEC, garages need GFCI receptacles whether they are attached as part of a dwelling unit (see Code 210.8 (A)(2)); or not (see Code 210.8 (B)(8).
In fact, the fine print notes for 210.8(A)(2) says "There are no exceptions. All...receptacles installed in garages must provide GFCI protection regardless of where the receptacle is located..