Is it illegal to drive in rain without headlights in Texas?

As the end of the week approaches, Central Texans can expect a rainy weekend.

For those in Austin, the timing is less than ideal, as weekend storms could interfere with several major events, including the Austin Earth Day Celebration and Zilker Kite Festival on Saturday, as well as the Statesman Cap10K race on Sunday.

While the weather could impact people’s plans, the rain can also affect how people should or should not drive.

For example, if it were to rain during the day, are drivers obligated to drive with their headlights on?

Texas law requires drivers to use headlights whenever weather or lighting conditions reduce visibility so that a person or vehicle cannot be clearly seen from at least 1,000 feet away. (Photo by Thomas Banneyer/picture alliance via Getty Images)
picture alliance/dpa/picture alliance via Getty I

While state law doesn’t specifically mention rain or other harsh weather, Texas law (Transp. Code § 547.302) says drivers must use headlights when visibility is reduced.

This Texas statute says there is a duty to display lights during bad weather, including rain. When visibility is reduced due to smoke or dust, headlights also must be used.

Here's what to know about the law:

• A vehicle shall display each lighted lamp and illuminating device at nighttime
• when light is insufficient or atmospheric conditions are unfavorable so that a person or vehicle on the highway is not clearly discernible at a distance of 1,000 feet ahead.
• At least one lighted lamp shall be displayed on each side of the front of a motor vehicle.

Headlights are required from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise, with no exceptions during that time. During the day, drivers must also turn on their headlights whenever weather conditions, such as rain, fog, snow, or sleet reduce visibility.

According to the Texas Transp. Code §. 547.353, headlights must emit only white or amber light. Using colors like blue, red, green, or purple is prohibited because they can be mistaken for emergency vehicles, making them subject to fines.