Yes, driving with interior lights on is legal in the Czech Republic, provided they do not impair the driver’s visibility or distract other road users. The Zákon o provozu na pozemních komunikacích (Act No. 361/2000 Coll.) does not explicitly prohibit interior lighting, but it mandates that vehicle lighting must not obstruct vision or mislead others. Police may intervene if lights are deemed excessive or hazardous.
Key Regulations for Driving With Interior Lights On in Czech Republic
- Visibility and Distraction Clause: Interior lights must not impair the driver’s view or distract other drivers under § 3 of the Road Traffic Act, which prohibits any lighting that could confuse or hinder traffic.
- Technical Standards: Vehicles must comply with ČSN 30 0000-1 technical norms, where interior lighting is permitted only if it does not exceed 5 watts and is shielded to prevent glare.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: From January 2026, amendments to Decree No. 341/2014 Coll. will tighten rules on non-standard lighting, including interior lights, if they are deemed to violate safety standards under EU Directive 2014/45/EC.