High beamWorldwide
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Worldwide. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
336. High beam
High beam, also called main beam, is the headlight setting designed to illuminate the road a long distance ahead. It provides stronger and farther-reaching illumination than dipped beam but can dazzle other road users if used incorrectly.
High beam is mainly useful on dark roads where there is no nearby traffic that could be dazzled. Drivers must switch to dipped beam whenever required by traffic conditions or national rules.
Wikimedia.org • Ehsnils • CC BY-SA
What is high beam used for?
High beam provides long-range illumination and can help a driver see farther ahead on dark roads where there is little or no other traffic.
When should you switch from high beam to dipped beam?
You should switch to dipped beam whenever high beam could dazzle approaching or preceding road users. Exact requirements and distances vary between countries.
Can high beam be used on a well-lit road?
Often not when the existing road lighting already provides sufficient visibility. National traffic rules may specifically require dipped beam instead in adequately illuminated areas.

Traffic rules
Worldwide