Introduction: why the issue of lighting is relevant even during the day
Disputes about which turn on lights during the day, have not subsided among drivers for many years. Some people think that daytime running lights (DRL) is a sufficient measure; others prefer low beam headlights as a more visible option. And some people completely forget about lighting, risking getting a fine. Meanwhile, the correct choice of lighting devices directly affects visibility of the car on the road and a reduction in accident rates by 10-15% according to the traffic police.
In 2026, the rules remained the same, but nuances appeared taking into account new car models and changes in technical regulations. For example, cars with factory LED lights must now meet strict brightness standards, and the use fog lights became an even more contentious issue during the day. Let's figure out what the law says, what exceptions there are, and how to avoid getting fined.
What the Traffic Regulations 2026 says: official requirements
According to paragraph 19.5 Traffic rules of the Russian Federation, during daylight hours all moving vehicles must be included:
- 🔆 Low beam headlights - classic and most versatile option;
- 💡 Daytime running lights (DRL) - if they are provided for by the design of the car;
- 🌫️ Fog lights - only paired with low beam or DRL (but not instead of them!).
Important: High beam and side lights use during the day prohibited - this is regarded as a violation. You should also not drive with your headlights off, even if it is sunny outside. The exception is only for motorcycles with a side trailer (separate rules apply for them).
⚠️ Attention: If your car is equipped automatic light switching (system Auto Light or similar), check its functionality! In 2023, 18% of fines for lack of light during the day were issued precisely because of failures in such systems.
Daytime running lights (DRL) vs low beam: which is better
Many drivers wonder: is it possible to limit DRL, or is it still worth turning on the neighbor? Let's compare both options:
| Criterion | Daytime running lights (DRL) | Low beam headlights |
|---|---|---|
| Energy consumption | Low (LED lights - ~5-10 W) | High (halogen - ~55-60 W per pair) |
| Visibility to other drivers | Good (brightness 400-800 cd) | Excellent (luminous flux 1000+ lm) |
| Impact on battery | Minimum | Noticeable on frequent short trips |
| Lamp replacement cost | High (LED modules are more expensive) | Low (halogen lamps are cheaper) |
Experts recommend: if you have a modern car with LED DRL (for example, Volkswagen Golf or Toyota Corolla after 2018), they are quite sufficient. But for older cars with dim running lights it is better to use low beam - it is guaranteed to attract the attention of other road users.
On some models (for example, Hyundai Solaris until 2017) daytime running lights turn off when you turn the steering wheel - this is a factory feature, not a breakdown. Check the instructions!
Fog lights during the day: is it possible or not?
This is where the biggest confusion begins. According to traffic rules, Fog lights can be used during the day, but only in conjunction with low beams or DRL. That is:
- ✅ Allowed: DRL + foglights;
- ✅ Allowed: Low beam + fog lights;
- ❌ Prohibited: Only fog lights without other lighting devices.
Why such restrictions? The fact is that fog lights produce a narrowly focused light, which is clearly visible in fog or rain, but during the day it can blind oncoming drivers if used separately. In addition, their brightness is often lower than that of DRL, which reduces the visibility of the car.
⚠️ Attention: In 2026, traffic police inspectors will actively fine for the use of yellow fog lights without main light. Fine - 500 rubles (Part 1 of Article 12.20 of the Administrative Code). An exception is only for cars where fog lights are included in the standard system DRL (for example, Renault Duster 2020+).
Exceptions: when you can drive without lights during the day
The traffic rules provide for several cases when You don’t have to turn on lights during the day:
- Motorcycles with side trailers — the light requirement does not apply to them;
- Emergency services vehicles (ambulance, police, Ministry of Emergency Situations) when performing official tasks;
- Cars on trailer (if they are not self-propelled);
- Bicycles and mopeds — separate rules apply for them (only a reflector is required).
There is also a non-obvious nuance: if your car equipped with an automatic light switching system (for example, Auto Light Control on Kia Rio or Skoda Octavia), and it is working properly, then there is no need to manually turn on the headlights. But! If the system breaks down, you must turn on the light yourself - otherwise you will be fined.
What to do if you forgot to turn on the light?
If an inspector stops you for having your headlights off, you can try to avoid a fine by citing a malfunction (for example, a blown fuse). However, it is difficult to prove this on the spot - it is better to immediately admit the mistake and turn on the light so as not to aggravate the situation.
Fines for violation: how much you have to pay
For driving during the day without lights on (or with incorrectly selected ones), a fine of Part 1 Art. 12.20 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation:
- 💰 500 rubles — for the absence of light or the use of only dimensions;
- 💰 500 rubles — for using only fog lights without DRL/neighbor;
- 💰 1000 rubles - if, along with a light violation, you are not wearing a seat belt or using a phone while driving (the penalties are cumulative).
Important: a fine will be issued on the spot, and it cannot be paid with a 50% discount (unlike fines from cameras). The inspector can also do verbal warning, if you correct the violation immediately. However, you shouldn’t count on this - according to statistics, only 12% of drivers get off with a warning.
The most common fine is 500 rubles for turning off the headlights. But if you only use fog lights without the main light, the penalty will be the same, although the violation is considered more serious.
Practical tips: how to remember to turn on the lights
Even experienced drivers sometimes forget about their lights. Here are some proven ways to avoid a fine:
☑️ Checklist before the trip
If you have an old car without DRL, consider installing additional running lights. For example, on VAZ 2110 or Daewoo Nexia you can install LED modules for 1500-2000 rubles. The main thing is to choose certified lights with markings E22 (compliance with European standards).
Another life hack: on many modern cars (for example, Ford Focus or Nissan Qashqai) can be programmed automatic light switching on when engine starts. This option is often hidden in the on-board computer menu (path: Settings → Lighting → Daytime running lights → On at startup).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about daytime lighting devices
Can I use fog lights instead of low beams?
No, this is a traffic violation. Fog lights can be turned on only together with low beam or daytime running lights. By themselves, they do not replace basic lighting.
Which lamps are best to choose for low beam so as not to blind oncoming people?
The best option is halogen lamps with color temperature 4300K (for example, Osram Original Line or Philips VisionPlus). LED and xenon are only allowed if they are installed from the factory. Independent replacement with xenon is punishable by deprivation of rights!
Do I need to turn on the lights during the day in a populated area?
Yes, the rules are the same for the city and the highway. Exception - only for courtyard areas and residential areas (sign 5.21), but there the speed is limited to 20 km/h, so the light still won’t hurt.
Is it possible to get a fine from a camera for having your headlights off?
Since 2023, cameras have recorded this violation, but only in automatic mode (if the light is off for more than 3 minutes). The fine comes by mail - 500 rubles. Most often this happens on highways (for example, on the M-4 Don or M-11 Neva).
What to do if the daytime lights burn out while on the road?
In this case, you must enable low beam or fog lights together with the low beam. If this is not possible (for example, a fuse has blown), you need to drive to the repair site at a minimum speed, taking special care.