Using the correct lights is both a legal requirement and a key safety measure. In Sweden, lights must be on whenever the vehicle is moving — even in daylight.
Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
All vehicles in Sweden must have lights on at all times when driving. Modern cars have automatic daytime running lights. DRL do not illuminate the rear of the vehicle, so when it gets dark or visibility drops, you must switch to full dipped headlights.
Dipped Headlights (Halvljus)
Use dipped headlights: at night, in poor visibility (fog, heavy rain, snow), in tunnels, and whenever DRL are insufficient. Dipped headlights illuminate approximately 40–60 metres ahead.
Full Beam (Helljus)
Use full beam on unlit roads with no oncoming traffic and no vehicle directly ahead. Dip to half-beam when an oncoming vehicle is within approximately 150–300 metres, when following another vehicle, and when approaching pedestrians or cyclists who could be dazzled.
Fog Lights
Front fog lights supplement dipped headlights in fog or heavy precipitation. Rear fog lights are for visibility below 50 metres — they are very bright and dazzle drivers behind you in normal conditions, making their use outside of thick fog an offence.
Exam tip: In Sweden, your lights must be on whenever you are moving — there is no exception for driving in daylight. DRL alone are not sufficient at night.