Driving at night presents unique challenges, from reduced visibility to dealing with glare from oncoming traffic. Many drivers find night driving stressful, but with the right techniques and awareness, it can become second nature. Whether you're a learner driver or an experienced motorist, these tips will help you stay safe on the road after dark.

1. Use the road markings to guide you

One of the best ways to maintain good lane positioning at night is to focus on the road markings. Instead of looking directly into the headlights of oncoming vehicles, use the white line on the left side of the road (the fog line) to help guide your driving.

"For oncoming headlights, the glare can make it worse. But look at the white line (or shoulder) to the right when passing oncoming traffic. It will maintain your eyesight and be able to see properly after the car has passed." – MuttJunior

2. Adjust your speed for the conditions

At night, your ability to see hazards is reduced, meaning you have less time to react. Slowing down gives you extra time to spot obstacles and adjust accordingly.

"Don't drive faster than you feel comfortable. Some people think the minimum speed limit is posted and you must do it or faster. They're usually the ones in wrecks." – GummerB

"Driving at night means slower traffic. Remember that you can’t see as far, even with glasses." – Own-Blacksmith-9487

3. Use your high beams wisely

High beams provide extra visibility on dark roads, but they should only be used when there are no other vehicles nearby. In Australia, you must dip your high beams when you are within 200 metres of another vehicle (either oncoming or ahead of you).

"Practice more, and focus more on the lines on the road. If there's no other cars around, turn your brights on." – JoeCensored

If an oncoming driver forgets to dip their high beams, avoid looking directly at the light. Instead, focus your gaze slightly to the left and follow the edge of the road until they pass.

4. Let your eyes adjust before driving

If you're moving from a bright indoor environment to the dark streets, your eyes need time to adjust to the lower light levels. Spending just a few minutes outside before starting your trip can help your night vision.

"Heading outside for a few minutes before actually starting up the car can help your eyes adjust to the darkness. I've found this to help." – calamitygan

5. Be mindful of glare from other vehicles

Modern vehicles are often equipped with bright LED or HID headlights, which can cause discomfort or temporary blindness when driving at night. If you're struggling with glare:

• Adjust your rear-view mirror to the "night" setting to reduce glare from cars behind you.
• Keep your windshield clean, as dirt and smudges can make glare worse.
• If oncoming lights are too bright, shift your focus slightly to the left of the road.

"With the proliferation of those ridiculous aftermarket HID's that people keep shoving into reflective housings, my night driving really relies on that fog line." – hondac55

6. Take breaks on long night drives

Driving long distances at night can lead to fatigue, which is a leading cause of road crashes. To stay alert:

• Take a break at least every two hours.
• Pull over at rest stops to stretch and walk around.
• If you're feeling tired, take a power nap before continuing.

"How often should you take a rest break when driving long distances? Every two hours."

7. Upgrade your headlights if needed

Older vehicles may have dim or yellowed headlights, making it harder to see at night. If you drive frequently in the dark, consider upgrading to brighter halogen or LED bulbs (as long as they comply with Australian road regulations).

"If you have an older vehicle, you might try upgrading your headlights. This will throw more light out so you can see better. It gets complicated, though." – GummerB

8. Be aware of wildlife

In rural areas, wild animals such as kangaroos and wombats are more active at night. If you're driving on country roads:

• Keep your high beams on where possible.
• Watch for eye reflections from animals on the side of the road.
• Reduce speed in areas marked as wildlife zones.

"Honestly? I drive at the speed I feel fits the conditions. I’m in a rural area, so things in the road are common. It may be a tree, a cow, or a deer may run in front of you. So, my headlights throw more light off the side of the road, I drive slower, and I'm looking for beady little eyes glowing." – GummerB

9. Keep your distance from other vehicles

At night, judging distances can be trickier. Increase your following distance to give yourself more reaction time in case of sudden stops.

"One day you will see it easier. I know professional drivers who are afraid of driving at night because they only do it once in a while." – Own-Blacksmith-9487

10. Stay calm and practice

If you're not confident with night driving, the best thing you can do is get more practice in safe conditions. Start on well-lit city streets, then progress to suburban or country roads as you become more comfortable.

"Practice first in the city where the streets are often lit, then move to the suburbs or country roads." – Rukir_Gaming

"Take someone with you if you're uncomfortable starting off in the dark." – Rukir_Gaming

Final thoughts

Driving at night doesn’t have to be stressful. By using the right techniques—like focusing on road markings, adjusting your speed, using headlights properly, and staying well-rested—you can drive safely and confidently after dark.

If you're new to night driving, take it slow, be patient, and gain experience gradually. The more you practice, the easier it will become.