District of Columbia Headlight & Wiper Law
DC runs the wider night window (a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise) plus a 500-foot low-visibility trigger (18 DCMR § 703). Headlights are required whenever your wipers run continuously for weather (§ 703.10), though that clause is secondary enforcement only. Improper lighting runs $75. DRLs don't satisfy it — your tail lamps stay dark, so switch to full headlamps, not AUTO or DRL.
When you light up in District of Columbia
DC runs the wider night window (a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise) plus a 500-foot low-visibility trigger (18 DCMR § 703). Headlights are required whenever your wipers run continuously for weather (§ 703.10), though that clause is secondary enforcement only. Improper lighting runs $75. DRLs don't satisfy it — your tail lamps stay dark, so switch to full headlamps, not AUTO or DRL.
Night, low visibility, and daytime
- Night: a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise. Low visibility: 500 feet — any time insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions keep persons and vehicles from being clearly discernible at 500 feet ahead.
- Posted signs and the 3rd Street (I-395) tunnel require lights. DRLs aren't mandated and don't satisfy the rule — tail lamps stay dark; use full headlamps. Dual lens: the wipers-on clause is enforced only as a secondary action after a stop for another violation (§ 703.10(b)) and can't be used as proof of negligence in a crash (§ 703.10(a)) — but the 500-foot low-visibility rule in the same section is a primary duty that heavy rain trips on its own.
District of Columbia Headlight Law FAQ
Do you need headlights when using wipers in District of Columbia?
When are headlights required in District of Columbia?
What is the headlight fine in District of Columbia?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: http://dcrules.elaws.us/dcmr/18-703. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
More for District of Columbia
Check District of Columbia before you roll
Live weather, closures, and hazards on one map. Free, no account.
Open Live Map →