Car Lights Types Explained: Different Lights on a Car and Their Uses

Introduction: Why Car Lights Matter for Safety

Car lights are essential safety features that improve visibility for drivers and signal a vehicle’s presence to others. The different car lights types are usually categorized by their location and purpose, such as headlights, rear lights, and signaling lights.

In total, most vehicles have 8–12 different lights. The main lights on a car include:

• Headlights (low beam, high beam, and daytime running lights)
• Fog lights (front and rear)
• Tail lights and brake lights
• Reverse lights
• Turn signal lights
• Hazard warning lights
• Sidelights, license plate lights, and interior lights

Understanding the different lights on a car, their names, and correct usage is important for safe driving and legal compliance. This guide explains each light type, its function, and common mistakes drivers should avoid.

What Are the Main Car Lights Types and Their Uses?

Car lights are divided into several categories based on their function and position on the vehicle. Below is a breakdown of the main car lights types and when they should be used:

1. Headlights

• Low-beam headlights: Provide sufficient illumination for night driving without blinding oncoming traffic; used in cities and when other vehicles are nearby.
  

• High-beam headlights: Offer bright, long-range light for dark roads with little or no traffic; should be switched off when other vehicles approach.
  

• Daytime Running Lights (DRLs): Automatically activated lights that make a car more visible during the day; not intended to replace low beams at night.

2. Fog Lights

• Front fog lights: Positioned low on the bumper, used in fog, heavy rain, or snow to improve near-ground visibility.
  

• Rear fog lights: Bright red lights at the back of the vehicle, activated in dense fog to warn drivers behind.

3. Rear Lights

• Tail lights: Red lights that turn on with the headlights, helping vehicles behind see the car in low light.
  

• Brake lights: Red lights that illuminate when the brake pedal is pressed, signaling that the car is slowing down.
  

• Reverse lights: White lights that activate when the vehicle is put into reverse, indicating backward movement.

4. Signaling & Warning Lights

• Turn signal lights: Flashing amber lights on the front, side, and rear of a car to indicate intended direction changes.
  

• Hazard warning lights: All signal lights flash together to warn others of an emergency, breakdown, or roadside stop.
  

5. Other Lights

• Sidelights (parking lights): Dim lights used when parking at night or in low-light areas.
  

• License plate lights: Small white lights that keep the rear plate visible at night (a legal requirement in most countries).
  

• Interior lights: Cabin lights activated when doors open, aiding passengers..

Regulations on Car Lights & Common Mistakes You Should Know

Using the correct car lights types is not only a matter of safety but also a legal requirement. Many regions have specific rules that determine when certain lights must or must not be used.

Key Regulations

• Low-beam headlights: Required at night, in tunnels, and when visibility is reduced to less than 100 meters.
  Learn more in our expert tips for using low-beam headlights.

• High-beam headlights: Must be switched off when approaching oncoming traffic or driving behind another vehicle, to avoid dazzling other drivers.
  For detailed guidance, see when you should use high beams.

• Fog lights: Only permitted in fog, heavy rain, or snow; using them in clear conditions can result in fines.
  

• Daytime Running Lights (DRLs): Mandatory on new vehicles in Europe; commonly fitted in North America and Asia.
  

• Hazard lights: Permitted only in emergencies, breakdowns, or when stationary and causing danger.

Regulations may differ by country (e.g., Europe’s ECE rules, U.S. FMVSS 108, U.K. Highway Code). Always check your local traffic laws.

Common Mistakes Drivers Make

• Overusing high beams: Failing to switch to low beams when another car approaches, causing glare and risk of accidents.
  

• Using fog lights unnecessarily: Turning on fog lights in clear weather, which can dazzle other drivers.
  

• Confusing DRLs with low beams: Relying on DRLs at night, which do not provide enough road illumination.
  

• Not using turn signals properly: Forgetting to signal when changing lanes or exiting a roundabout, reducing road safety.
  

Following regulations and avoiding these mistakes ensures safer roads for everyone and helps drivers stay compliant with traffic laws.

Conclusion: Using the Right Car Lights at the Right Time

Car lights are critical for safe driving, communication, and compliance. By understanding the different car lights types—headlights, fog lights, tail lights, brake lights, and signaling systems—drivers can use the correct lights on a car in every situation.

Following regulations and avoiding misuse, such as overusing high beams or treating DRLs as night lighting, improves safety for all road users. Whether you are new to driving or experienced, knowing when and how to use each car light ensures safer roads and fewer risks.

FAQs About Car Lights

1. What are the different lights on a car called?

The main car light names are headlights, daytime running lights (DRLs), fog lights, tail lights, brake lights, reverse lights, turn signals, and hazard warning lights.

2. How many types of car lights are there?

Most vehicles have 8–12 car lights types, grouped into headlights, rear lights, and signaling lights. Each serves a unique safety purpose.

3. What lights should be used when driving at night?

At night, drivers must use low-beam headlights. High beams can be used on dark roads with no traffic but must be dimmed for oncoming cars. Tail lights automatically switch on with the headlights.

4. When should fog lights be turned on?

Fog lights should only be used in fog, heavy rain, or snow when visibility drops below about 100 meters. Using fog lights in clear weather is unsafe and often illegal.

5. Are daytime running lights the same as headlights?

No. DRLs make a car more visible during the day but do not light up the road. Low-beam headlights are required for driving in the dark.

6. What lights should be used in heavy rain?

In heavy rain, drivers should switch on low-beam headlights and tail lights. If visibility is very poor, front or rear fog lights may also be used.

7. When is it correct to use hazard warning lights?

Hazard lights should be used only in emergencies—such as a breakdown, sudden obstruction, or when the vehicle is stopped and posing a danger to others.