In Ukraine, starting from October 1, a separate seasonal rule regarding headlights is not being introduced. Since 2023, the requirement has become year-round: outside populated areas, mechanical vehicles must have daytime running lights on, and if they are absent - low beam headlights.
Low beam headlights from October 1 are no longer a seasonal requirement
Previously, clause 9.8 of the Traffic Rules did indeed establish a period from October 1 to May 1. However, by Cabinet of Ministers resolution No. 1105 of October 20, 2023, the mention of these dates was removed. Since then, the rule has been in effect throughout the entire year.
"On all mechanical vehicles outside populated areas, daytime running lights must be turned on," - stated in the current clause 9.8 of the Traffic Rules.
In the absence of DRLs provided by the design, low beam headlights must be used.
Daytime running lights outside the city must be turned on year-round
The rule applies to movement outside populated areas regardless of the season. That is, after May 1, the requirement no longer ceases to apply, and on October 1 it does not start again. The current examination materials of the Main Service Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs also require DRLs or low beam headlights when driving outside populated areas.
For violating clause 9.8, the police apply Part 2 of Article 122 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses. In a court case regarding a violation in January 2026 for driving without DRLs or low beam headlights, a fine of 510 UAH was recorded.
