Have you ever wondered why modern cars have bright white lights during the day, while older cars only have dull orange lights? Or why can a traffic police inspector fine you for driving with the lights on instead of the DRLs? The answer lies in the fundamental difference between daytime running lights (DRL) and side lights - two systems that are often confused even by experienced drivers.
At first glance, both types of lights perform a similar function: they make the car more visible on the road. But in fact, their purpose, technical requirements and legal nuances of use are radically different. For example, the use of headlights instead of DRLs during daylight hours is considered a violation of traffic rules (clause 19.5) and is punishable by a fine of 500 rubles, while properly installed DRLs are not only allowed, but also required for most vehicles. In this article, we will figure out exactly how these systems differ, how to use them correctly, and what errors lead to fines.
1. Purpose: why DRLs and dimensions cannot be considered interchangeable
The main difference lies in intended purpose these lights. Daytime running lights (Daytime Running Lights, DRL) are specially designed to improve vehicle visibility during daylight hours. Their task is to make the car noticeable against the background of the surrounding environment, reducing the risk of accidents when overtaking, changing lanes or driving in traffic. Studies show that proper use of DRLs reduces the number of frontal collisions by 10-15%.
Side lights (Position Lights), on the contrary, are intended to indicate vehicle dimensions in conditions insufficient visibility (twilight, night, fog, rain). They help other drivers appreciate the width and contours of the car, but are not intended for daytime use. Their luminous flux is 5–10 times weaker than that of DRLs, so during the day they are practically invisible against a sunny background.
- 🔦 DRL: the main goal is increased visibility during the day, preventing accidents when overtaking.
- 🌃 Dimensions: the main goal is marking the contours of a vehicle at night or in fog.
- ⚖️ Legal nuance: using side lights instead of DRLs during the day is equivalent to driving without lights.
2. Technical requirements: brightness, color and location
Technical standards for DRLs and dimensions are specified in GOST R 41.48-2004 (for DRL) and GOST R 41.87-99 (for dimensions). The main difference is light intensity and color. Daytime running lights should emit white light with intensity from 400 to 800 candelas, while the dimensions are red (rear) or orange/white (front) with the brightness of everything 4–12 candelas.
In addition, DRLs are set strictly front (at the edges of the car) at a height 250–1500 mm from the ground, and side lights - both in front and behind. The distance between pairs of DRLs must be at least 600 mm (for machines wider than 1300 mm) or 400 mm (for narrow cars). Dimensions may be located closer to each other.
| Parameter | Daytime running lights (DRL) | Side lights |
|---|---|---|
| Color | White only | Front: white/orange Rear: red |
| Brightness (candelas) | 400–800 | 4–12 |
| Location | Front only | Front and back |
| Installation height (mm) | 250–1500 | 350–1500 (front), 350–2100 (rear) |
| Mandatory use | Yes, during the day (clause 19.5 of traffic rules) | Yes, at night or in poor visibility conditions |
⚠️ Attention: If you install DRLs yourself, make sure they are certified GOST R 41.48-2004. Uncertified LED strips or modules can not only blind oncoming drivers, but also cause a refusal to pass a technical inspection.
3. Legal nuances: when to include and what fines they face
According to clause 19.5 of the Russian Federation Traffic Regulations, during daylight hours all moving vehicles Either the DRLs, low beam headlights, or fog lights must be on. Side lights are not an alternative DRL! Their use instead of daytime lights is regarded as a violation, for which a fine is imposed. 500 rubles (Article 12.20 of the Administrative Code).
At night or in conditions of poor visibility (rain, snow, fog) dimensions are required, but they are not enough - you need to include low or high beam headlights. The only exceptions are trailers and towed vehicles, for which dimensions are the main source of light.
- ☀️ During the day: DRLs (or low beams/fog lights). Dimensions - violation!
- 🌙 At night: Dimensions + low/high beam. DRLs turn off automatically.
- 🚨 Fines: 500 ₽ for the absence of DRLs during the day, 500 ₽ for incorrect use of dimensions.
If your car is not equipped with standard DRLs, use low beam headlights during the daytime. It's cheaper than paying fines and safer than driving with traffic jams.
4. Connection diagrams: can the dimensions be used as DRLs?
Technically, it is possible to connect the lights so that they glow brighter and act as DRLs. But this illegally for two reasons:
- The brightness of the dimensions does not meet the requirements for DRLs (maximum 12 candelas vs minimum 400 candelas).
- The color of the front markers may be orange, which is prohibited for DRLs (white only).
If you want to save money, it is better to install certified LED DRLs (for example, Philips DayLight 8 or Osram LEDriving DL>) with automatic switching on when the engine starts. The cost of the kit is from 1,500 rubles, and connection takes 1–2 hours. An alternative is to use fog lights (if they exist), but their light should be white or yellow.
Make sure that the modules are certified according to GOST R 41.48-2004|
Select installation location (not lower than 250 mm from the ground)|
Connect to the ignition circuit (so that the lights turn on automatically)|
Adjust the glow angle (no higher than 20° above the horizon)|
Check that oncoming drivers are not dazzled -->
5. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Many drivers mistakenly believe that:
- "Dimensions and DRLs are the same thing" → No! Dimensions are 30–50 times dimmer.
- "You can drive during the day with the lights on" → This is a traffic violation (fine 500 ₽).
- “DRLs are only needed on the highway” → They are mandatory everywhere, even in the city.
- "LED strips can be used as DRLs" → Only if they are certified and comply with GOST.
Another common problem is incorrect DRL setting. For example, if the lights are mounted too high or pointed upward, they will blind oncoming drivers. Optimal tilt angle - 0–5° below horizontal. You can check this using a laser level or a special stand in a car service center.
⚠️ Attention: If you are buying a used car, check to see if the DRLs were disabled by the previous owner. Some drivers turn them off to “save battery,” but this violates traffic regulations. You can check the operation of the DRLs by starting the engine - they should light up automatically.
6. DRLs and dimensions in different countries: what tourists need to know
In Europe, the requirements for DRLs are even stricter: there they are are required on all vehicles from 2011 (directive EC 2008/89/EC). In the US and Canada, DRLs are optional, but many manufacturers install them by default. In Japan and China it is allowed to use low beam headlights instead of DRLs, but lights are prohibited during the day.
If you are planning a trip abroad with your car:
- 🇪🇺 B Europe check if your DRLs are up to standard ECE R87.
- 🇺🇸 B USA You can drive without DRLs, but at night, headlights + headlights are required.
- 🇯🇵 B Japan Low beam during the day is equivalent to DRL, but watch the height of the beam (there is left-hand traffic there!).
What happens if you drive in Europe without DRLs?
In most EU countries (Germany, France, Italy), the absence of DRLs during the day is punishable by a fine of 30 to 100 euros. In Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway) fines are higher - up to 150 euros, since they pay special attention to road safety. In some countries (for example, Poland) they may simply warn you, but it’s not worth the risk - it’s better to check the serviceability of the lights in advance.
7. How to choose DRLs: overview of types and manufacturers
There are three main types of DRLs on the market:
- LED modules - the most popular (for example, Philips DayLight 8, Osram LEDriving DL). Pros: low power consumption, long service life (up to 10,000 hours). Cons: high price (from 2000 ₽ per set).
- Halogen lamps - budget option (for example, Narva Range Power DRL). Pros: cheaper than LEDs (from 800 ₽). Cons: they get hot, shorter service life.
- Tapes and flexible modules - for non-standard installation (for example, Hella LEDayFlex). Pros: can be placed on curved surfaces. Cons: more difficult to install, often not certified.
When choosing, pay attention to:
- 📜 Certificate of Conformity (must be GOST R 41.48-2004).
- 🔋 Voltage (12 V for cars, 24 V for trucks).
- 🛠️ Mounting method (on an adhesive base or bolts).
- 💡 Color temperature (optimally 4000–5000 K - neutral white).
The most reliable DRLs - from manufacturers Philips, Osram and Hella. They undergo strict quality control and are guaranteed not to blind oncoming drivers when installed correctly.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about DRLs and dimensions
Can fog lights be used instead of DRLs?
Yes, but only if they are installed front and radiate white or yellow light. Red rear fog lights cannot be turned on instead of DRLs - this is a violation (fine 500 ₽). Also make sure that the fog lights do not blind oncoming drivers (adjust the angle).
Why do the DRLs light up on some cars even when the engine is off?
This is a design feature: on many modern cars (for example, Volkswagen, Audi) The DRLs remain on for another 15–30 seconds after the ignition is turned off for safety (so that the car remains visible when the driver exits). If the lights stay on longer, check the relay or light control unit.
Can DRLs be installed on a motorcycle?
Yes, DRLs have also been mandatory for motorcycles since 2010 (Section 19.5 of the Traffic Regulations). The main thing is that they are certified and installed at a height 350–1200 mm from the ground. Popular models: Denali DRL or R&G Micro Indicators.
What should I do if the DRLs are flashing or dim?
The reasons may be different:
- 🔌 Poor contact — check the wires and terminals.
- 🔋 Low voltage - measure with a multimeter (should be 12–14 V).
- 💡 Failure of LEDs - replace the module.
- 🔧 Control unit malfunction - requires diagnostics at a car service center.
If the DRLs are connected via a relay, check its functionality (clicking sound when the ignition is turned on).
Do I need to turn on the DRLs in the tunnel?
No! The same rules apply in the tunnel as at night: you need to turn on low or high beam headlights. DRLs in the tunnel are not bright enough, and it is prohibited to use headlights without headlights (fine 500 ₽).