When Do You Have to Turn on Your Headlights in Ontario?
In Ontario, you must turn on your headlights from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise. You must also use them any time visibility is reduced to less than 150 metres, such as in rain, fog, or snow. Daytime running lights do not satisfy the rear light requirement.
Key Facts
- From 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise
- Any time visibility is reduced to 150 metres or less due to fog, rain, snow, or other conditions
- In a tunnel or underpass
- Whenever the vehicle's windshield wipers are in continuous use (in many vehicles, this is required by law)
In this article
When You Must Use Headlights
Ontario's Highway Traffic Act requires headlights in the following situations.
- From 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise
- Any time visibility is reduced to 150 metres or less due to fog, rain, snow, or other conditions
- In a tunnel or underpass
- Whenever the vehicle's windshield wipers are in continuous use (in many vehicles, this is required by law)
Daytime Running Lights Are Not Enough
Many vehicles come equipped with daytime running lights (DRLs) that activate automatically during the day. While DRLs improve your visibility to other drivers from the front, they do not illuminate your rear lights. If it is raining or your wipers are on, you must switch to your full headlights so that drivers behind you can see your tail lights. Driving with only DRLs in low-visibility conditions is a common mistake.
High Beams vs. Low Beams
When full headlights are required, you may use either high beams or low beams depending on conditions. High beams must be switched to low beams when an oncoming vehicle is within 150 metres and when following another vehicle within 60 metres. Leaving high beams on and blinding oncoming drivers is a chargeable offence. Use your high beams on dark rural roads but be ready to dim them quickly.
Headlights and the G2 Road Test
If your road test is scheduled in conditions where headlights are required (rain, early morning, late afternoon in winter), the examiner will expect you to have them on. Failing to use headlights when conditions require them is noted as a driving error. Before your test, check that all lights are working: headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals.
Fines for Not Using Headlights
Failing to use headlights when required is a fineable offence under the Highway Traffic Act. The fine ranges from $85 to $500 depending on the violation. Officers regularly issue these tickets during poor weather conditions. Beyond the legal consequence, driving without lights in low visibility significantly increases your risk of being involved in a collision.
Related Questions
What Are the Restrictions on a G2 Licence in Ontario?
G2 drivers must maintain a zero blood alcohol level (0.00 BAC), ensure all passengers wear seatbelts, and avoid handheld electronic devices. Drivers under 20 also face passenger limits between midnight and 5 AM. These restrictions remain until you pass the full G road test.
Read answerHow Do You Drive Safely in Snow and Ice in Ontario?
Reduce your speed by at least 50% in heavy snow, increase your following distance to 6 to 8 seconds, brake gently without sudden inputs, and steer into any skid. Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving, as required by the Highway Traffic Act.
Read answerWhat to Expect on the G2 Road Test in Ontario
The G2 road test in Ontario is approximately 20 minutes of driving with an MTO examiner in the passenger seat. You will be tested on turns, lane changes, intersections, parking manoeuvres, and general safe driving habits. You must demonstrate controlled, predictable driving and avoid critical errors. Most tests do not include highway driving.
Read answerReady to Start Driving?
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