NHTSA to modernize vehicle lighting standards to improve road safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced plans to modernize outdated vehicle lighting standards to improve road safety. This initiative marks the first time in over 25 years that the agency will utilize negotiated rulemaking to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy will appoint up to 18 stakeholders, including manufacturers, safety organizations, and research institutions, to participate in the process. The update aims to address several key areas: mitigating headlight glare, modernizing technology for LEDs and automatic high beams, improving visibility through better headlamp aim, and aligning U.S. regulations with international safety standards.

NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison stated that current standards prevent automakers from deploying the latest safety-improving lighting technologies. The agency is currently soliciting public comments and formal nominations for committee membership through November 9, 2026.