Safe driving
Fog lights: when can they be used?
Fog lights are for conditions of reduced visibility; use them as permitted and switch them off when no longer needed.
Front fog lights may be used in fog, snowfall or heavy rain as permitted by the Highway Code. The rear fog light is for severely reduced visibility and must be switched off as soon as conditions improve.
Front and rear fog lights are different
Front fog lights are designed to illuminate the road in reduced visibility, such as fog, snowfall or heavy rain, as permitted by Article 153 of the Highway Code. They are not extra headlights to leave on every dark night or on a dry road. Follow the vehicle manual and the legal conditions that apply to the type of light.
The rear fog light is very bright so that drivers behind can see your vehicle. Use it when visibility is severely reduced, and switch it off as soon as it is no longer needed, because it can dazzle or confuse drivers behind you. Do not confuse it with the rear position lights: check the dashboard indicator and the symbol on the control before switching it on.
When the weather worsens, first switch on the lights required for driving and adjust your speed and distance. Fog lights do not make excessive speed safe or improve visibility if the windscreen is misted or dirty. Use the wipers and demister, slow down, and stop somewhere safe if you cannot see well enough to continue.
- Front: use in the reduced-visibility conditions set out in the Highway Code.
- Rear: use only when visibility is severely reduced.
- Switch off the rear fog light when conditions ease.
- Fog lights and full beam do not replace a safe speed.
Avoiding glare and confusion
When you are following another vehicle, its rear fog light may be brighter than its brake lights and make it difficult to see when it is braking. Use the light only when it is truly needed and switch it off when the gap or conditions improve. If another driver leaves it on in good visibility, keep your distance and do not respond with full beam or aggressive manoeuvres.
If you are unsure which control operates each light, check the manual while parked before setting off. Also check that the lights are clean and correctly aimed.
To distinguish position lights, dipped headlights and fog lights,Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers chapters, timed practice tests and a review of mistakes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the rear fog light in ordinary rain?
The rear fog light is intended for severely reduced visibility. In ordinary rain it may dazzle drivers behind; follow the Highway Code conditions and switch it off as soon as it is no longer needed.
Do front fog lights replace dipped headlights?
No. Use the lights required for driving and treat fog lights as an additional device for specific conditions.