Can I cycle without lights?
No — not in the dark or poor visibility. In dusk, darkness or poor visibility your bike must ride with working lights: a white headlight at the front, a red rear light, plus the required reflectors (white front, red rear, pedals and spokes). Since 2017 removable battery lights are allowed too — but they must carry the official test mark and be fitted and switched on while riding. In daylight with good visibility lights aren't required, but should be at hand.
📋 The rules
- In the dark/poor visibility: lights on — white front, red rear
- Required reflectors (front, rear, pedals, spokes)
- Battery/clip-on lights allowed (since 2017) with a test mark
- Lights must be fitted and switched on
- Lighting must work — defective counts as missing
🔓 Exceptions
- In daylight with good visibility you needn't carry/switch them on
- Racing bikes under 11 kg: special rules existed before — now normal lighting duty applies
- Dynamo or battery power are equally allowed
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Cycling without working lights in the dark is an offence: €20 warning fine, with endangerment €25, in a crash €35. More important than the fine is safety — poorly visible cyclists are one of the most common accident causes in the dark season. In a crash without lights you may also be assigned contributory fault.
📎 Official sources
- § 67 StVZO · Lighting equipment on bicycles →
- ADAC · Bicycle lighting: rules →
- Bußgeldkatalog · Bicycle without lights →
❓ Frequently asked
Do I always need lights on the bike?
In the dark, dusk or poor visibility, yes — white front, red rear, plus the required reflectors. In daylight with good visibility you needn't switch them on, but should carry them.
Are battery or clip-on lights allowed?
Yes, since 2017. Removable battery lights are permitted but must carry the official test mark and be fitted and switched on while riding. A mere handheld lamp or untested light won't do.
What does cycling without lights cost?
€20 warning fine, €25 with endangerment and €35 in a crash. On top is the safety risk: without lights you're seen far too late in the dark — a common accident cause.
Do I also need reflectors?
Yes. Required are a white reflector at the front, a red one at the rear, yellow pedal reflectors and side marking (spoke reflectors or reflective tyres/rims). They complement the active lights.
Does it also apply to a pedelec?
Yes. Pedelecs up to 25 km/h count as bicycles and follow the same lighting rules. Make sure the lighting works — especially with built-in systems a regular check pays off.
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