Ask a Trooper Q&A

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Question: I often meet vehicles that not only have very bright headlights but appear to have many of them. Is there a law that limits the number of lights a vehicle can have on at one time, or how bright they can be?

Answer: Yes, there is. According to statute 169.63 (b), when a motor vehicle equipped with headlamps, as herein required, is also equipped with any auxiliary lamps, spot lamps or any other lamps on the front thereof projecting a beam of intensity greater than 300-candle power, not more than a total of four of any such lamps on the front of a vehicle shall be lighted at any one time when upon a highway.

I have learned that if a light is approved by the Federal Code of Regulations for use on cars then it is approved for use in Minnesota. Now the candle power will have to be checked to verify its correct use or not.

My guess is that most likely what the problem is here is that the lights are in need of adjusting, something that doesn’t appear to be done much lately. I passed on your concerns to the supervisory level of the Patrol district you live in. They can bring your concerns to the Troopers that work the area for appropriate action.

If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws in Minnesota, send your questions to Trooper Andy Schmidt, Minnesota State Patrol, 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. Or reach me at andrew.schmidt@state.mn.us.

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