Many people wonder if it’s against the law to drive without shoes in New Jersey. Some might even believe it’s illegal because they’ve heard it from family or during driving lessons.
But the truth is, driving barefoot in New Jersey is completely legal. There’s no law in the state that says you must wear shoes while driving.
Let’s break it down clearly so you understand what the law really says and what safety tips experts recommend.
What the Law Says About Barefoot Driving in New Jersey
New Jersey has no rule or law that bans barefoot driving. This is not just true for New Jersey — no state in the U.S. has a law that makes driving barefoot illegal. So if you’re behind the wheel without shoes on in New Jersey, you’re not breaking any laws.
Even if a police officer stops you for another reason, such as speeding or distracted driving, they can’t give you a ticket just for being barefoot. There is no fine or penalty for not wearing shoes while driving.
Is Driving Barefoot Safe?
Just because it’s legal doesn’t always mean it’s the best idea. Safety experts say that driving barefoot can sometimes be risky. Here’s why:
Your bare foot could slip off the pedals, especially if your feet are wet or sweaty. This can slow down your reaction time, which may cause trouble in an emergency.
If your foot slips or can’t press the pedal properly, you might lose control of the car. That’s why most safety experts suggest wearing flat, close-toed shoes while driving. Avoid flip-flops or high heels — they can get stuck or slide under the pedal.
Can Insurance Be Affected if You Drive Barefoot?
While driving barefoot isn’t illegal, it could become a problem if you’re in an accident. If investigators or insurance companies find that your lack of footwear contributed to the crash, you might be considered careless or reckless. This could affect your insurance claim or lead to additional penalties.
So, although you won’t get a fine for barefoot driving, it might still become a legal issue if it plays a role in unsafe driving or an accident.
Police Discretion and Barefoot Driving
Police officers don’t have the right to stop you just because you’re barefoot. But if you’re pulled over for another reason and the officer feels your barefoot condition made your driving unsafe, they may mention it in their report. Still, it’s not enough to get you a ticket or fine by itself.
What Should You Do?
The best advice is simple: Keep a pair of comfortable, safe driving shoes in your car. That way, even if you prefer being barefoot or are wearing sandals, you can quickly switch into proper footwear when it’s time to drive.
So to answer the big question: No, it’s not illegal to drive barefoot in New Jersey. You can legally drive without shoes, but it’s not always the safest choice.
If you’re in an accident and it’s found that barefoot driving played a part, it might create legal or insurance trouble. To stay safe and avoid risks, keep proper shoes handy and drive responsibly.
