Which lights must be operational for a vehicle to pass inspection?

For a vehicle to pass inspection in Maine, having operational headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and taillights is essential. Each of these lighting elements plays a crucial role in ensuring the vehicle's visibility and communication with other road users.

Headlights are necessary for visibility during nighttime or in adverse weather conditions, while tail lights ensure that the vehicle can be seen from behind, especially at night. Brake lights are critical for signaling to other drivers when the vehicle is slowing down or stopping, promoting safety on the road. Turn signals are vital for indicating a driver's intention to change direction, thus preventing accidents that could arise from miscommunication with other drivers.

While other lights like fog lights, reverse lights, and dashboard lights serve important functions, the core requirements for passing an inspection focus specifically on the central lighting systems that directly affect safety on the roadway.