Are daytime running lights on all the time?

Daytime running lights are not on 24/7; they turn on automatically when the engine is running during daylight and either stay dim or switch to full headlights as needed. Regulation and vehicle settings vary by country, so behavior can differ by model.

What are daytime running lights?

Daytime running lights (DRLs) are a safety feature designed to make a vehicle more visible during daytime hours. They typically operate at a reduced brightness and are separate from the vehicle’s full headlights or fog lamps. In modern cars, DRLs are often LED-based and activated automatically when the vehicle is started.

DRLs by region

Regulatory and industry practice around DRLs varies by country. Here is a general snapshot of how it plays out in many markets.

• In Europe and many other jurisdictions, DRLs are required for new vehicles or are widely adopted by manufacturers.


• Canada and Australia have regulations that effectively promote or require DRLs on new cars, particularly during daylight hours.


• In the United States, there is no universal federal mandate for DRLs, but most new passenger cars include DRLs by default and automakers offer them as standard or optional features.

The exact rules can differ from one country to another, and some regions update requirements over time. Always check local regulations and your owner’s manual for specifics on your vehicle.

How DRLs operate in vehicles

Here is how DRLs typically work in modern cars.

• They usually activate automatically when the ignition is on or the engine starts, and they run at a lower brightness during daytime driving.


• Some cars use dedicated DRL LEDs or daytime-only bulbs; others use the low-beam headlights at reduced intensity.


• When the headlights are turned on (or ambient lighting is low), DRLs may dim or switch off, letting full headlights take over.


• Many models offer a setting to disable DRLs, or they may be tied to the automatic headlight system and vary by market.

Knowing how your vehicle handles DRLs helps you understand when you’re visible to others and whether you’re meeting local requirements.

Practical considerations for drivers

Daytime running lights improve daytime visibility for other drivers and pedestrians, potentially reducing collisions. They are not a substitute for headlights at dusk, night, or in poor weather, and drivers should switch to full headlamps as conditions require. Some automatic lighting systems coordinate DRLs with other features like fog lamps or high beams.

What if your car doesn't have DRLs?

If your car does not have dedicated DRLs, the vehicle's standard lights may serve as daytime illumination when the car is running, or daytime visibility relies on the low beams turned on at a reduced level by design. Always consult your owner's manual and local laws to ensure compliance.

Summary

Daytime running lights are a daytime-only safety feature that activates automatically in many cars when the engine is running. They are not permanently on, and their behavior depends on the vehicle and the country’s regulations. For night driving or poor visibility, use proper headlights. Always check your specific vehicle's manual and local regulations for exact operation.

Can you get pulled over for a daytime running light out?

Unfortunately yes. DRLs are safety equipment and are supposed to be working. If your car has them and one is out, an officer can initiate a traffic stop (where that isn't specifically illegal).

Do daytime running lights drain the battery?

No, modern daytime running lights (DRLs) should not drain your battery while driving because the vehicle's alternator provides the power. However, DRLs can drain the battery if the car is turned off and the lights are left on, especially if the battery is old or weak. The power consumption is very low, so a strong battery will likely not be drained overnight, but leaving them on for many hours will drain the battery, particularly if the engine is not running. 
While driving

• The alternator provides power: When the engine is running, the alternator generates electricity to power the car's electrical systems, including the DRLs. The battery's role is primarily to start the engine and provide power when the engine is off. 
• LED DRLs are very efficient: Modern DRLs, especially those that use LEDs, consume very little power. This makes them even less likely to put a strain on the electrical system while driving. 

With the engine off

• The battery provides power: With the engine off, DRLs draw power directly from the battery. 
• Battery drain is possible: While DRLs consume minimal power, leaving them on for an extended period can drain the battery over time, especially if the battery is not in good condition. 
• Consider manual controls: If your vehicle allows it, turning off DRLs when the engine is off can help preserve battery life, particularly if the car will be parked for a long time. 

Important considerations

• DIY installations: Incorrect wiring from a DIY installation of DRLs could cause a continuous power drain, even if the lights are switched off. If you've recently installed new lights and are experiencing battery drain, have the wiring checked. 
• Weak or old batteries: A weak or old battery may drain more quickly than a new one. If a new or nearly new battery is draining quickly with the lights on, there may be another issue, such as a "parasitic draw" from another component. 

Should daytime running lights always be on?

Should daytime running lights always be on? Daytime running lights should only be on while you're driving during the daytime – the clue is in the name with this one! At night, daytime running lights should automatically turn off when you activate your headlights.

What are the rules for daytime running lights?

Daytime running lights (DRLs) are not required by law in the United States, though they are legal and widely used as a standard feature on most modern cars. Some states may have specific regulations on how they function or require headlights to be used in certain conditions, such as low visibility or when using windshield wipers. In contrast, DRLs are mandated for all new vehicles sold in Canada and several other countries. 
United States

• No federal mandate: The U.S. does not require DRLs, as federal studies did not find a statistically significant enough safety benefit to justify a nationwide mandate. 
• Manufacturer-installed: Because they are not mandated, individual car manufacturers decide whether to include them as a standard feature. 
• State-level regulations: While DRLs are legal, state laws may have their own rules about when headlights (including DRLs) must be on. For example, some states require headlights when visibility is poor or when windshield wipers are in continuous use. 
• Specific state requirements: Some states require headlights during certain times or conditions, such as 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, when visibility is less than a certain distance, or in adverse weather like fog, rain, or snow. 

Other countries

• Canada: DRLs are mandatory on all new or imported vehicles made after January 1, 1990. 
• Europe: DRLs are common, with specific technical standards for their performance. 
• Nordic countries: Sweden was one of the first countries to require DRLs in 1977, with other Nordic countries following suit in the years after. 
• Other countries: Many other countries now require them, with the specific regulations varying by country. 

Important note

• Check local laws: It is important to be aware of your local laws regarding headlights, as state or even city-level regulations may require you to turn your headlights on in certain conditions, regardless of whether you have DRLs.