What are Dipped Headlights (Feux de Croisement)?\n\nDipped headlights, commonly referred to in France as "codes," are vehicle lights designed to illuminate the road surface directly ahead. According to the French Code de la route (Article R313-3), these lights must efficiently illuminate the road for a minimum distance of 30 meters ahead during clear night conditions, without dazzling other road users. \n\nUnlike high beams (feux de route), which project a powerful, parallel beam straight ahead to maximize distance, dipped headlights project an asymmetrical beam directed downwards and slightly to the right. This unique design illuminates the roadside and pedestrian paths while preventing the light from directly hitting the eyes of oncoming drivers.\n\n## When Must You Use Dipped Headlights in France?\n\nUnder French road regulations, using dipped headlights is mandatory in several specific situations where natural visibility is compromised. Understanding these scenarios is a frequent focus of the ETG (Épreuve Théorique Générale) theory test.\n\n* At Night in Well-Lit Urban Areas: When driving in illuminated city streets, you must use dipped headlights. Sidelights (feux de position) are permitted on their own only if the street lighting is continuous and sufficient, but dipped headlights remain the safest and most standard choice.\n* At Night in Unlit Areas with Oncoming Traffic: While high beams are the default choice for unlit rural roads, you must switch to dipped headlights as soon as you follow another vehicle or detect oncoming traffic, including cyclists and pedestrians.\n* During the Day in Poor Weather: In the event of rain, snow, or fog, dipped headlights must be turned on. High beams are prohibited in these conditions because their intense light reflects off water droplets, snow, or mist, blinding the driver.\n* In Tunnels: Regardless of whether the tunnel is well-lit or unlit, you must turn on your dipped headlights immediately upon entering. This is signaled by the blue "Tunnel" indication sign.\n\n## Comparing Dipped Headlights with Other Lights\n\nTo pass your theory test, you must avoid confusing dipped headlights with other light settings:\n\n* Sidelights (Feux de position): These lights only allow your vehicle to be seen by others from a distance of 150 meters, but they do not illuminate the road. They are insufficient on their own in most night driving situations.\n* High Beams (Feux de route): These provide maximum visibility at night up to 100 meters but must be turned off when other road users are present to avoid dazzling them.\n* Fog Lights (Feux de brouillard): Front fog lights can complement or replace dipped headlights in heavy rain, snow, or fog. Rear fog lights are strictly prohibited during rain as they are too bright for drivers behind you, but they are mandatory in fog and snow.\n\n## Exam Tips and Common Traps\n\nFrench theory exam questions often try to trick candidates on weather combinations. Remember the golden rule for poor daytime visibility: in rain, snow, or fog, dipped headlights (feux de croisement) are always a correct option. However, never turn on rear fog lights in the rain. Another common question tests your reaction when exiting a tunnel or meeting oncoming traffic at night. Always transition smoothly between high beams and dipped headlights to prioritize collective safety.