Vehicle Lighting Rules Haven't Changed Since 1997

Has this ever happened to you? You are driving at night, whether you are on the highway, interstate, or simply in your neighborhood. Another vehicle approaches, and suddenly you can hardly see where you are going because the other vehicle's headlights are SO bright. If that sounds familiar, you aren't alone: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reviewing vehicle headlights, and changes could be coming for the first time in 30 years.

NHTSA Looking At Several Areas Surrounding Headlight Complaints

According to a press release from the NHTSA, several areas will be looked at, including the one described above, the height and angle of a vehicle's headlights, and how they affect other drivers.

The Federal Code surrounding headlights on vehicles has parts of it that haven't been adjusted since 1997, almost three decades ago.

What Changes Could Be Coming?

Right now, it's uncertain what changes will be made, but we do know what areas the NHTSA will be looking at:

Addressing Headlight Glare: Examining the role that modern headlighting technology has on glare for other road users and making appropriate changes.
Modernizing Lighting Technology: Improving rules for LEDs, dusk sensors, automatic high beams, and replaceable light sources.
Improving Performance: Evaluating how headlamp height and aim affect driver visibility.
Updating Testing & Materials: Streamlining test procedures for plastic optics and replaceable lenses.
Aligning Global Standards: Harmonizing U.S. vehicle lighting regulations with international safety standards.

Why People Like Bright Headlights

Driving to work early in the morning, I can appreciate bright headlights, especially this time of year with deer. Maybe you work in ag, and having big bright headlights can help illuminate an area you are working in or an implement you are working on.

You Can Weigh In On The Possible Changes

The NHTSA is also welcoming public comments on vehicle headlights. If you are interested in voicing your opinion on LEDs, automatic high beams, headlight height and angles, etc., you can submit those comments by November 9th here.

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