Washington § 46.37.020 - When lighted lamps and signaling devices are required.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 46.37.020 — When lighted lamps and signaling devices are required., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 46.37.020. When lighted lamps and signaling devices are required.

Every vehicle upon a highway within this state at any time from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise and at any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions, persons and vehicles on the highway are not clearly discernible at a distance of one thousand feet ahead shall display lighted headlights, other lights, and illuminating devices as hereinafter respectively required for different classes of vehicles, subject to exceptions with respect to parked vehicles, and such stop lights, turn signals, and other signaling devices shall be lighted as prescribed for the use of such devices.
[ 1977 ex.s. c 355 s 2; 1974 ex.s. c 124 s 2; 1963 c 154 s 2; 1961 c 12 s 46.37.020. Prior: 1955 c 269 s 2; prior: 1937 c 189 s 14, part; RRS s 6360-14, part; RCW 46.40.010, part; 1929 c 178 s 2; 1927 c 309 s 19; 1921 c 96 s 22, part; 1919 c 59 s 10, part; 1917 c 155 s 15, part; 1915 c 142 s 21, part; RRS s 6362-19.]

Notes

Severability—1977 ex.s. c 355: See note following RCW 46.37.010.
Effective date—1963 c 154: See note following RCW 46.37.010.
Local twenty-four hour headlight policy: RCW 47.04.180.
Motorcycles and motor-driven cycles—When headlamps and tail lamps to be lighted: RCW 46.37.522.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 46.37.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 46.37.020 cover?

Section 46.37.020 ("When lighted lamps and signaling devices are required.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 46.37.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 46.37.020" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 46.37.020 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.