High beamBrussels
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Brussels. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
159. High beam
High beam, also called main beam, is the headlight setting designed to illuminate the road a long distance ahead. It provides stronger and farther-reaching illumination than dipped beam but can dazzle other road users if used incorrectly.
High beam is mainly useful on dark roads where there is no nearby traffic that could be dazzled. Drivers must switch to dipped beam whenever required by traffic conditions or national rules.
Wikimedia.org • Ehsnils • CC BY-SA
When may you use high beam in Belgium?
High beam may be used when driving lights are required and none of the dipped-beam conditions applies. Dip in time to avoid dazzling an approaching road user, a rail-vehicle driver or a boat operator, when following another vehicle within 50 metres except while overtaking, and on continuously well-lit roads with about 100 metres of clear visibility.
Must you dip your high beam if an approaching driver signals that they are dazzled?
Yes. When an approaching driver repeatedly flashes their high beams to indicate that they are being dazzled, you must switch from high beam to dipped beam.

Traffic rules
Brussels