Headlight rules — Iowa Permit Test

Iowa law requires both headlights from sunset to sunrise.

Lights help you see the road and let other drivers see you after the sun goes down.

Iowa law requires the use of both headlights from sunset to sunrise or whenever visibility is 500 feet or less,

Iowa law requires both headlights whenever visibility is 500 feet or less, such as in fog, heavy rain or snow.

In fog or heavy snow, other drivers may not see a car without lights until it is too late.

Iowa law requires the use of both headlights from sunset to sunrise or whenever visibility is 500 feet or less,

A good rule of thumb is to turn your headlights on whenever you turn your windshield wipers on.

If it is wet enough for wipers, it is dim enough that others need help seeing your car.

A good rule of thumb is to turn your headlights on whenever you turn your windshield wipers on.

In some conditions, such as a daytime snowstorm, it is bright enough that automatic headlights must be turned on by hand.

Snow can make the sky bright while still hiding your car, so the sensor may leave your lights off.

such as daytime snowstorms, the ambient light is bright enough your automatic headlights must be turned on manually.

Turn on your headlights whenever you have trouble seeing other vehicles, since they likely have trouble seeing you.

If you cannot see them well, they cannot see you well either. Lights help both of you.

Turn on your headlights whenever you are having trouble seeing other vehicles, as they are likely having trouble seeing you.

When does Iowa law require you to use both headlights?

From sunset to sunrise. Lights help you see the road and let other drivers see you after the sun goes down. Iowa Driver's License Manual, p.49: “Iowa law requires the use of both headlights from sunset to sunrise or whenever visibility is 500 feet or less,”