Did you know that under the Queensland Government Transport Rules, headlights, taillights, and number plate lights must legally be turned on from sunset to sunrise and during any period of reduced visibility.

To explain clearly to learner drivers, you need to understand the two distinct categories to ensure you adhere to the government rules:

The Clock (Legal Timeframe)

Sunset to Sunrise: Headlights must be switched on the exact minute the sun sets and remain on until the sun rises the next morning.

The “See and Be Seen” Rule: When it is twilight (dawn and dusk) this lighting creates long, flickering shadows between trees and buildings. Even if the driver can still see the road, headlights are required so other drivers can see them. 

The Conditions (Hazardous Weather)

Reduced Visibility: Headlights must be turned on during the day if atmospheric conditions drop visibility.

Specific Triggers: Drivers need to learn to automatically switch them on during heavy rain, thick fog, smoke, or dust storms.

The 100-Metre Gauge: A great rule of thumb when learning is: If you cannot clearly see a dark object 100 metres ahead of you, your headlights need to be on.

Top Tips

Remember that modern “automatic” light settings do not always detect daytime rain or fog. You must learn and remember how to manually switch on your low beams to stay safe and avoid fines.