For a vehicle to be street legal, which light must be functional?

For a vehicle to be considered street legal, having both headlights and brake lights functional is crucial for safety and compliance with traffic regulations. Headlights are essential for visibility during nighttime driving or in poor weather conditions, allowing the driver to see and be seen by other road users. Brake lights are equally important as they signal to other drivers when a vehicle is stopping, helping to prevent rear-end collisions.

While turn signals and clearance lights play significant roles in vehicle safety and signaling, the law primarily mandates that headlights and brake lights must operate properly for a vehicle to be deemed safe for road use. This dual requirement ensures that drivers have the necessary lights for both visibility and communication with other motorists, which are vital for safe driving practices.