Police warn drivers of car headlights rules in France
It is advisable to carry spare bulbs when driving
The rules on headlights on cars are strict and clear in France
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Drivers in France whose vehicle only has one working headlight risk fines as this endangers other road users and the driver themselves, police have warned.
In a Facebook post, the Gendarmerie in Corsica reminded road users of the rules on headlights and warned of the dangers of driving a ‘cyclops’ (one-eyed / headlamp) vehicle.
What does the law say about car headlights?
These rules are detailed in articles R313-2 and R313-3 of the Code de la route (road laws). They also stipulate the colour of the lights and their required strength.
Headlamps must have two main beam lights (that can project 100 metres in clear weather at night), and two dipped-beam lights (that project 30 metres in clear weather at night without dazzling other drivers). The lamps must be yellow or white.
What if one of the lights breaks?
If one of the bulbs stops working “you must replace it immediately”, states the Sécurité routière website. This means that it is a good idea to keep replacement bulbs in your car so that you can replace the bulb if it breaks en route.
If a light stops working for any other reason you must fix it immediately to avoid driving with only one working headlamp.
What are the penalties for a non-working headlight?
Drivers who are stopped for the offence (a non-working headlight) have seven days to fix it and avoid a ‘third category’ fine of €68, which can rise to as much as €450 if unpaid or if a repeat offence.
If both lights are found to be faulty, drivers are liable to a ‘fourth category’ fine of €135 (which can rise to €750).
The Code de la route also states that if police or gendarmerie find that a vehicle’s headlights offer insufficient visibility either at night or day (so in the event of the absence of lights, non-conformity, or defect of the main or dipped beam headlights), they can confiscate the vehicle.
