Command sign · R133
Switch headlights on sign (R133)
Headlights must be switched on.
What does the switch headlights on sign mean?
Headlights must be switched on.
What should you do?
Use dipped headlights and avoid dazzling other drivers.
| Sign code | R133 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Command signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the switch headlights on sign
A blue circle with a headlamp symbol.
Where you will see it
On any road, especially before tunnels and in mountain areas.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Switch on dipped headlights so you can see and be seen.
The common mistake
It is not permission to use main beam. When the matching “end” sign (R133-600) appears, this particular command ends, but your other lighting duties do not.
Why this sign matters
Seeing and being seen matter most where the light changes quickly, such as tunnels and mountain roads. The command makes sure your lights are on.
About command signs
Command signs tell you what you must do, such as keeping left or using a minimum speed. They are blue circles with white symbols. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the switch headlights on sign (R133) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: command signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: use dipped headlights and avoid dazzling other drivers.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Speed signs and mandatory directions.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the switch headlights on sign with these:
Minimum speed (R101)A blue circle with a white number. It looks like a speed limit but is blue, not red-bordered.
Vehicles over indicated mass only (R102)A blue circle with a mass figure in tonnes (the sample artwork shows 10 t).
Keep left (R103)A blue circle with a white arrow slanting down to the left.Test yourself: Switch headlights on sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
- Headlights must be switched on.
- A pedestrian crossing is ahead.
Show the answer
Answer B: Headlights must be switched on.
Use dipped headlights and avoid dazzling other drivers.
Memory tip: R133 · Switch headlights on
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- If the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
- Use dipped headlights and avoid dazzling other drivers.
- Look for people waiting to cross or already crossing.
Show the answer
Answer B: Use dipped headlights and avoid dazzling other drivers.
Switch headlights on: Headlights must be switched on.
Memory tip: Use dipped headlights and avoid dazzling other drivers.
All vehicle codes
Switch headlights on sign: quick questions
What does the switch headlights on sign (R133) mean?
Headlights must be switched on.
What should you do at the switch headlights on sign?
Switch on dipped headlights so you can see and be seen.
Where will you see the switch headlights on sign?
On any road, especially before tunnels and in mountain areas.
What is the common mistake with the switch headlights on sign?
It is not permission to use main beam. When the matching “end” sign (R133-600) appears, this particular command ends, but your other lighting duties do not.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.