Parking lights: what are they and when to use them?

Not sure what parking lights are and when to use them? This handy guide tells you what you need to know and how to use them correctly. 

Parking lights, sometimes called sidelights, are small lights on your car designed to make it visible when it’s not moving. Many drivers wonder, what are parking lights actually for, and when should you use them? Knowing the difference between parking lights and headlights is key to staying safe, and legal, on UK roads. This handy guide tells you everything you need to know.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

What are parking lights?

In the UK, parking lights are the same as sidelights – the small bulbs in the front corners of your car (and matched with rear tail lights and number plate lights). They’re much dimmer than headlights and are mainly there to make your car visible to other drivers when it’s not dark enough for full headlights.

They also double as “parking lights,” which the Highway Code requires you to leave on in certain situations when your car is parked on the road.

When must you use parking lights?

You must use parking lights when parked on a road or lay-by with a speed limit over 30 mph, according to section 249 of the Highway Code.

On roads with a speed limit of 30 mph or less, you don’t need to use parking lights if:

• You’re parked at least 10m (32 feet) from any junction.
• You’re close to the kerb and facing the direction of traffic.
• You’re in a recognised parking place or lay-by.

However, if visibility is poor (for example, in fog), you should leave your parking lights on regardless.

How to turn on parking lights

In the vast majority of modern cars, you can turn your sidelights on with the same control as your headlights. This is usually a stalk on the steering wheel or a small dial to the side.

The parking lights symbol is usually two small semi-circles facing in opposite directions. Each will likely have three lines coming from them to symbolise light, too.

Automatic headlights won’t leave parking lights on, as they only control the dipped beams. You’ll need to set this yourself.

Parking lights vs headlights

Parking lights are small, low-intensity lights designed to make your car visible when it’s stationary, especially at night or in poor visibility. They don’t project enough light to illuminate the road ahead, which is why they aren’t suitable for driving at night.

Headlights, on the other hand, are much brighter and are specifically designed to help you see the road and be seen by others when driving. The most common type used on the road is dipped beam headlights (also called low beams), which give enough light for safe driving without dazzling other drivers.

Do parking lights drain the battery?

Parking lights (or sidelights) use much less power than headlights, so leaving them on for a few hours usually won’t drain your battery. That said, if your car has an older or weaker battery, leaving them on overnight could cause problems.

As a rule, avoid leaving any lights on longer than necessary. Never leave your headlights on while parked – not only will they flatten your battery quickly, but it’s also illegal as they can dazzle other drivers.

Parking lights FAQs

What colour are parking lights?

Parking lights will be the same colour as your headlights in most cases. Halogen bulbs tend to have a warm yellowish glow, whereas LEDs will have a brighter, whiter tone. Meanwhile, parking lights at the rear are red.

Do all cars have parking lights?

Yes, practically all modern cars will be fitted with parking lights. If you’re unsure, look for two small, semi-circular symbols facing opposite directions on your light controls.

Do parking lights drain a car’s battery?

Parking lights are designed to consume a very small amount of energy without draining your battery. Providing your car’s battery is in a healthy condition, leaving them on overnight should be fine.

Is it legal to drive with parking lights on?

It’s not technically illegal to drive with just your parking lights, but they don’t give enough light to drive safely at night. By law, you must use dipped headlights after dark or when visibility is poor.

If you’re caught driving without proper headlights, you could face a £50 fine. In some cases, police may treat it more seriously – as driving without due care and attention – which can mean a £100 fine and 3 penalty points.

Are blue parking lights illegal?

Yes, blue parking lights are illegal for standard road vehicles in the UK as they are exclusively for emergency services. Any non-emergency vehicle fitted with a blue warning beacon, or a light that resembles one, is prohibited and could result in fines or other penalties.

Can you drive with parking lights on?

No, you should not drive with only parking lights on because they aren’t bright enough to light up the road. They’re only meant to make a parked car visible to others when it’s stationary.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.