Are LED Lights Illegal in Cars in Australia?

LED Lights are not illegal in cars in Australia. At the moment, there are no law prohibiting using LED lights in cars

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Last updated on December 12th, 2023 at 04:50 pm

LED Lights are not illegal in cars in Australia since there is no law prohibiting the use of led lights in any Australian Territory or State.

Vehicle Lighting Regulations

Vehicle lighting regulations are governed by the Australian Design Rules ( ADRs) and Territory or State laws.

These rules are in place to ensure proper visibility and road safety for all motorists. It’s important for all drivers and vehicle owners to comply with these regulations for their safety and to avoid penalties.

The Legality of LED Lights in Cars

Led lights in Australia are allowed for use in cars. However, there are strict regulations and guidelines by the Australian Design Rules ( ADRs) which must be followed to ensure compliance. 

These guidelines focus on factors such as electrical connection, color, positioning, brightness, and the LED light’s specific purpose for the safety of other road users.

  1. Color:  The colors that are legally acceptable for headlights are yellow or white. It’s applicable for both high-beam and low-beam headlights. Colors red, purple, and blue are prohibited for use on personal vehicles. These colors can easily dazzle other vehicle drivers hence, increasing the risk of accidents.
  2. Brightness: Australian Design Rules (ADRs) regulates the brightness of headlights in Australia. The standards exist to ensure the brightness of headlights is enough to provide drivers with clear visibility while protecting other road users from glare.
  3. Electrical Connection: All connections and electrical wiring must be insulated, protected, and inspected regularly.

Considerations for LED Lights in Cars

Interior and Underbody Lights: Since there are no regulations against using LED Lights under the body or inside the car, it’s very important to use them responsibly.

Distracting or overly bright lights to other drivers might be considered illegal. This will result in penalties if they cause confusion to other road users or interfere with the driver’s vision

  • Headlights: LED headlights are permitted, but there are specific criteria that must be met regarding beam pattern, light intensity, and alignment to ensure clear visibility for other drivers. Ensure that any aftermarket LED headlights installed on your vehicle meet these regulations.

Auxiliary Lights and LED Light Bars:  The auxiliary lights and LED light bars are regulated in Australia for use on vehicles.

These lights are used as additional lighting for certain vehicles or off-road purposes. Their use is allowed but there are specific guidelines on their usage and installation.

They should be properly mounted, so as not to interfere with the driver’s view.

Keep in mind that regulations may change over time, so it’s recommended to consult the latest local laws and regulations or relevant road traffic authorities for accurate and up-to-date information about the legality of LED Lights in cars.

More Resources:

Brands of LED Lights

Australia Lighting Council Fact Sheets

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