The Nevada Department of Transportation is installing ‘Daytime Headlights Required’ signage ahead of an updated Nevada traffic law that will require drivers to use headlights at all times while traveling on rural two-lane highways.

The law, effective July 1, 2028 (NRS 484D.100), is intended to improve visibility and reduce the risk of head-on crashes, which are among the most frequent crashes on rural roads. The requirement applies only to rural two-lane highways and does not apply to urban streets or highways with more than one lane in each direction.

NDOT has installed daytime headlight signs along U.S. 6 across central Nevada, including in Tonopah. Some signs have also been installed along U.S. 95 in Schurz, with additional updates pending. Existing daytime headlight zones—such as U.S. 93 in Elko County—will be updated to the new signage standard.

Each 108-by-36-inch sign reads “Turn on Headlights” and includes the distance to the next major city where daytime headlight use is not required. The larger size is designed to increase visibility.

Current Nevada law requires headlights from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise or during rain and limited visibility. NDOT reminds motorists that using daytime running lights can provide enhanced visibility of your vehicle, even in areas where daytime headlights are not required.

Between October 2019 and October 2023, 110 crashes involving passing vehicles occurred on U.S. 6 and U.S. 95 in Nevada.

With safety as top priority, NDOT has put the following safety enhancements in place for safer travel on two-lane roads across the state:

• Prioritizing additional passing lanes to reduce unsafe passing.
• Installing rumble strips on thousands of miles of state highways to reduce lane departure crashes.
• Flattening roadside slopes to help drivers recover safely if they drift off the road.
• Developing a statewide Speed Management Action Plan to reduce speed-related crashes.

Tips for driving on two-lane highways:

• Drive attentively and watch for other vehicles, wildlife, and access roads.
• Obey posted speed limits and slow down in poor conditions.
• Pass only in designated areas when it is safe to do so.
• Avoid tailgating and maintain a safe lane position.
• Use headlights or daytime running lights for improved visibility.