Understanding when and how to properly use your headlights is essential for safe driving—especially with today’s modern vehicles equipped with automated lighting systems, self-levelling beams, and multiple light modes.

While these features are designed to improve safety, they’ve also made correct headlight use more confusing for many drivers.

At Mars Performance, we work with enthusiasts and everyday drivers who upgrade their lighting systems for better visibility and performance, but still need to stay compliant with Australian road rules. This guide breaks down the essentials.

What’s the Correct Way to Use Low and High Beam Lights?

Driving at night, especially in regional or poorly lit areas, requires proper use of your headlights to maintain visibility without affecting other drivers.

• Low-beam headlights are designed to illuminate at least 25 metres ahead
• High-beam headlights extend visibility to at least 50 metres ahead

Meanwhile, high beam should always be used responsibly:

• Switch to low beam when within 200 metres of a vehicle ahead
• Switch off high beam when an oncoming vehicle is within 200 metres
• If another driver is already using dipped lights, high beam should be switched off immediately
• High beam can be used briefly when overtaking before initiating the manoeuvre.

When Should You Turn Your Headlights On?

Headlights must be used during hours of darkness, defined as from sunset to sunrise

However, legal compliance aside, visibility should always be your guide. If objects ahead become difficult to see at around 100 metres, headlights should already be on. Modern vehicles with auto headlight functions help reduce mistakes, but drivers should still actively monitor lighting conditions.

Can You Drive With Interior Lights On?

There are no specific penalties in most Australian states for driving with interior cabin lights on. However, interior lighting can:

• Reduce night vision
• Increase glare inside the cabin
• Distract from road focus

It is best used only when the vehicle is safely stationary.

Do You Need Headlights in Rain or Poor Weather?

Yes, headlights must be used in any hazardous condition that reduces visibility, especially when you're experiencing the following when you're driving:

• Heavy rain
• Fog
• Mist or smoke

There is no strict requirement on which beam to use, but drivers should adjust based on visibility:

• Low beam for general poor weather
• Fog lights only when conditions significantly reduce visibility

If visibility is still clear during daytime rain, headlights are not legally required, but recommended for safety.

What About Fog Lights?

Fog lights are designed differently from headlights as they spread light low and wide. They are intended for fog, heavy rain, or smoke conditions only. 

Key rules:

• Fog lights must not be used in clear conditions
• They should not be used together with inappropriate lighting setups
• Incorrect use can be considered illegal and may cause glare for other drivers

Daytime Running Lights (DRL)

Daytime running lights are now standard across many modern vehicles and are designed to improve visibility during daytime driving. However DRLS do not replace headlights at night, but they can sometimes create confusion in low-light conditions and drivers may mistakenly assume headlights are on when only DRLs are active.  As a result, many modern vehicles use auto headlight systems to help prevent this issue.

Fitting Aftermarket Lighting

Upgrading vehicle lighting is common, especially among performance and off-road enthusiasts, but compliance is critical.

General rules include:

• A maximum of four additional driving lights can be fitted
• An LED light bar is counted as one light unit
• Lights must comply with ADR (Australian Design Rules) standards
• Incorrect LED/HID retrofits in halogen housings can cause unsafe glare
• High-output lighting may require self-levelling and cleaning systems to remain compliant

Incorrect installation can impact roadworthiness and may result in defect notices.

Build Smarter Lighting. Drive with Confidence.

Proper lighting use isn’t just about visibility, it’s about control, safety, and compliance.

Whether you’re upgrading your daily driver or building a full touring setup, lighting performance only matters when it’s done right.

At Mars Performance, we supply performance-focused automotive lighting and upgrade solutions designed to enhance visibility while keeping your build compliant with Australian standards.

Shop compliant lighting upgrades at Mars Performance!