Driving lights on trucks: what is legally permitted?

Additional driving lights are popular on trucks. They improve visibility on dark roads and are also an important part of a truck's appearance. But how many driving lights can you install, where can they be mounted and when are you allowed to use them? We explain the regulations you need to consider.

Are driving lights permitted on trucks?

Under Dutch traffic regulations, the term driving light is not officially recognised as a separate lighting category.

However, this does not mean that all additional lights on a truck are prohibited. A suitable and approved driving light can function as a main-beam headlamp (high beam). The RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) permits multiple main-beam headlamps on heavy commercial vehicles.

When purchasing additional lighting, it is therefore important to consider not only its appearance or light output, but also its approval and the function for which the light was designed.

How many main-beam headlamps can a truck have?

A truck must be equipped with two standard main-beam headlamps. According to the RDW vehicle inspection manual, heavy commercial vehicles may also be fitted with additional main-beam headlamps. However, there is one important restriction: a maximum of four main-beam headlamps may operate simultaneously.

For example, if your truck has two original main-beam headlamps and you install two additional approved LED driving lights that switch on together with the high beams, a total of four main-beam headlamps will be operating.

Installing more lights on your truck does not automatically mean that they can all operate as high beams at the same time.

When can you use driving lights?

When a driving light is used as a main-beam headlamp, the same rules apply as for standard high beams.

According to Article 32 of the Dutch Traffic Rules and Signs Regulations (RVV), high beams must not be used:

• During daylight hours.

• When approaching another road user.

• When driving a short distance behind another vehicle.

High beams may therefore only be used when driving in the dark, provided they do not dazzle other road users.

Correct adjustment is also essential. A powerful LED driving light that is aimed too high can dazzle oncoming traffic, even from a considerable distance.

Where can driving lights be mounted?

On trucks, driving lights are commonly installed in the grille, on the bumper or above the cab.

The RDW requires certain vehicle lights to be mounted no more than 50 centimetres from the widest point of the vehicle. However, main-beam headlamps are exempt from this requirement.

This does not mean that every mounting position is automatically permitted. When installing driving lights, pay particular attention to the following:

• Secure mounting.

• Correct adjustment of the light beam.

• Approval of the light for its intended function.

• An electrical connection that ensures no more than four main-beam headlamps operate simultaneously.

For trucks first registered after 31 December 1997, the driver must also be able to see when the high beams are switched on, for example through an indicator light on the dashboard.

Important information about position lights and integrated strobes

Modern driving lights often offer more functions than just the main beam. These may include white or amber position lights and integrated strobe lights. Each function requires its own EU approval.

Even if a light is approved for all its functions, this does not automatically mean that every integrated function may be used in all situations on public roads.

For example, separate regulations apply to amber rotating beacons, strobe lights and flashing lights. These are intended for commercial vehicles carrying out activities for which such warning signals are permitted under the Dutch RVV regulations.

M-LED driving lights for trucks

The M-LED range includes various M-LED driving lights for trucks.

The M-LED Classic 220, for example, is a rectangular LED driving light with a classic appearance. It features ECE R149 approval for lighting and ECE R148 approval for light-signalling functions, among others. The Classic 220 has a reference number of 25 and is available with white or amber position lights.

If you prefer a modern, round driving light, the M-LED Co-Pilot 9-inch Dark Look is another option. According to its product specifications, it is certified to ECE R149, R148, R10 and R65, among others. It also features white or amber position lights and an integrated strobe light.

For multifunctional lights such as the Co-Pilot, it is important to check how each function may be connected and used on your truck.

Which driving light is right for your truck?

Choosing the right driving light involves more than simply looking at its size, wattage or appearance.

If you intend to use the light as an additional high beam on public roads, make sure that the specific model is approved for this purpose and consider your truck's complete lighting configuration.

At MobiLED, you will find a wide range of driving light brands for both classic and modern trucks. From the rectangular Classic 220 to round models such as the Co-Pilot, and from Strands to Lazer.

This allows you to choose a model that suits both the appearance of your truck and the intended purpose of the lighting.

Not sure which driving light is suitable for your truck or how to connect it correctly? MobiLED will be happy to help you make the right choice.