I've noticed more people keeping their headlights on during daylight hours, especially on cloudy days. I'm wondering if this is actually required by law or if there's a fine for NOT having them on. Also, does it matter if you're using daytime running lights instead of full headlights?
Are you asking because you got dinged for it, or just curious? The answer depends entirely on where you are - some countries and states actually *require* headlights on during the day (like most of Europe and Canada), while others don't care at all. In the US, it varies by state; some require them in certain conditions, others don't require them at all but won't fine you for having them on. Daytime running lights usually satisfy the legal requirement where one exists, since they're specifically designed for that purpose, but check your local traffic laws to be sure because it really does differ everywhere!
The legal answer hinges on your location - that's the key thing that changes everything here. In most of Europe, daytime running lights are actually mandatory in many countries, and you can get fined for *not* having them on. North America is way different though; most US states and Canadian provinces don't require daytime headlights at all, and you won't get penalized for leaving them off. Some places have made them optional or only required in certain conditions.
About daytime running lights versus full headlights - they're usually treated as separate things legally. DRLs are those brighter front lights that many newer cars have, and they're often what satisfies the legal requirement in places that mandate daytime lighting. Full headlights are brighter and also illuminate your rear lights, which DRLs don't always do. So if your jurisdiction requires daytime lights, DRLs might be enough, but you'd want to check your local traffic code to be sure. Does that apply to where you drive, or are you asking about somewhere specific?
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