Yes, Puerto Rico’s Reglamento de Tránsito (Reg. 6049) does not explicitly prohibit driving with interior lights on, but the Policía de Puerto Rico may cite drivers under Artículo 8.03 for obstructed vision or Artículo 4.12 for unsafe vehicle operation. Local traffic courts rarely enforce this as a primary offense, though distracted driving laws (2024 amendments) could apply if lights impair focus.
Key Regulations for Driving With Interior Lights On in Puerto Rico
- Obstructed Vision Clause (Art. 8.03): Interior lights must not hinder the driver’s ability to see road signs, pedestrians, or other vehicles. Courts interpret this broadly; excessive brightness near the windshield is likely to trigger violations.
- Distracted Driving Prohibition (2024 Amendments): If interior lights are deemed a visual distraction (e.g., reflecting off mirrors or screens), they may fall under Ley 155-2020’s distracted driving statutes, punishable by fines up to $500.
- Local Enforcement Discretion: Municipal police (e.g., San Juan, Ponce) prioritize visible safety hazards. While no formal ban exists, officers may issue citaciones de cortesía (courtesy tickets) for “unsafe vehicle conditions” under Reg. 6049, Sección 12.5.
Practical Compliance Note: Avoid using interior lights during night driving or in low-visibility conditions. The Autoridad de Carreteras y Transportación (ACT) may introduce stricter 2026 guidelines aligning with U.S. DOT standards, requiring ambient lighting adjustments. Always ensure auxiliary lighting does not exceed 32 candlepower or violate ANSI/SAE visibility benchmarks.