Louisiana Headlight & Wiper Law
Louisiana spells it out: headlights on from sunset to sunrise, any time you can't see 500 feet ahead, and whenever moisture or precipitation has your wipers running continuously (La. R.S. 32:301). Fine is up to $25, no court costs, and it's not a moving violation. DRLs don't count — your tail lamps stay dark. Use low beams; dim within 500 feet of oncoming traffic and 200 feet when following (R.S. 32:322).
When you light up in Louisiana
Louisiana spells it out: headlights on from sunset to sunrise, any time you can't see 500 feet ahead, and whenever moisture or precipitation has your wipers running continuously (La. R.S. 32:301). Fine is up to $25, no court costs, and it's not a moving violation. DRLs don't count — your tail lamps stay dark. Use low beams; dim within 500 feet of oncoming traffic and 200 feet when following (R.S. 32:322).
Night, low visibility, and daytime
- Sunset to sunrise, plus any time persons and vehicles aren't clearly discernible at 500 feet, and whenever precipitation or moisture forces continuous wiper use (La. R.S. 32:301).
- No daytime work-zone headlight statute and no DRL mandate. DRLs leave the tail lamps dark and don't meet §32:301 — switch to full headlamps. Fog and auxiliary lamps are barred within 500 feet of oncoming traffic and 200 feet when following, except during fog or inclement weather (§32:322).
Louisiana Headlight Law FAQ
Do you need headlights when using wipers in Louisiana?
When are headlights required in Louisiana?
What is the headlight fine in Louisiana?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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: https://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=88240. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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