It is not illegal to drive barefoot in Missouri. Contrary to popular belief and persistent myths, there is no state law that prohibits operating a motor vehicle without shoes. The Missouri State Highway Patrol explicitly confirms that driving barefoot is legal, and you will not receive a ticket solely for driving without footwear.
Safety Considerations
While legal, law enforcement and safety experts often caution that driving barefoot may not always be the safest choice.
Some drivers find they have better pedal control barefoot compared to wearing certain types of shoes, such as high heels, flip-flops, or heavy boots, which can slip off or get stuck under the pedals. However, bare feet can also slip off the pedals or be injured in an accident.
If barefoot driving contributes to an accident or loss of control, you could still be cited for other violations, such as careless or reckless driving, but not for being barefoot itself.
Officer Discretion
Although there is no law against barefoot driving, officers have discretion to cite drivers for unsafe driving behaviors. If an officer believes that your lack of footwear contributed to unsafe vehicle operation, you could face penalties related to that behavior, not the absence of shoes.
Motorcycles
The law for barefoot driving applies to cars and trucks. For motorcycles, Missouri does not have a specific statute requiring footwear, but safety recommendations are even stronger due to the increased risk of injury.
Key Takeaways
- Driving barefoot is legal in Missouri.
- You cannot be ticketed solely for driving without shoes.
- If barefoot driving leads to unsafe operation or an accident, you may be cited for other violations.
- Wearing secure, well-fitting shoes is recommended for safety.
You are free to drive barefoot in Missouri, but always prioritize safety and vehicle control, regardless of your footwear choice.
Sources:
- https://www.mshp.dps.mo.gov/MSHPWeb/Root/March2013FeaturedStatutes.html
- https://www.schaeferautobody.com/is-driving-barefoot-legal-in-missouri/
- https://thebradleylawfirm.com/blog/is-it-legal-to-drive-barefoot-in-missouri/
- https://www.bobeuckmanford.com/blog-common-questions-about-missouri-driving-laws.htm