A driver illuminating apparatus adapted for use in a vehicle includes a light emitting element mounted within a rear field of vision of a driver of the vehicle through a rear-view mirror, for emitting infrared radiation toward the mirror. Alternatively, a driver illuminating apparatus includes a light emitting element mounted out of a rear field of vision of a driver through a rear-view mirror, for emitting infrared radiation to be reflected by a cold filter and delivered to the mirror. The cold filter is provided in part or whole of a portion of a rear window of the vehicle. The portion is located within the rear field of vision. Further alternatively, a driver illuminating apparatus adapted for use in a car includes a light emitting element mounted approximately at the center of a rear window of the car, for emitting infrared radiation toward an interior rear-view mirror.