No, driving with interior lights on in Turkey is prohibited under the Highway Traffic Law (Law No. 2918, Article 74), as they impair visibility and distract other drivers. The regulation aligns with 2023 amendments by the Turkish Ministry of Interior, reinforcing penalties for non-compliance.
Key Regulations for Driving With Interior Lights On in Turkey
- Visibility Mandate: Interior lights must remain off while the vehicle is in motion (Article 74/1). Exceptions exist only for parked or stationary vehicles.
- Distraction Clause: The Traffic Safety Board (Trafik Güvenliği Kurulu) classifies interior lighting as a visual distraction, citing studies from the 2026 National Traffic Safety Action Plan.
- Penalties: Violators face fines up to 887 TL (2024 rate) and potential license demerit points under the Electronic Traffic System (ETS).
Local enforcement prioritizes urban areas like Istanbul and Ankara, where traffic density amplifies risks. Vehicles with aftermarket lighting modifications may face additional scrutiny under the 2024 Vehicle Inspection Regulation.