If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s illegal to drive barefoot in North Dakota, you’re not alone. Many people have heard warnings from parents or driving instructors about the dangers or illegality of driving without shoes. But what does the law actually say?
The Legal Truth: Barefoot Driving Is Allowed
The truth is, there is no law in North Dakota that prohibits driving barefoot. The North Dakota Century Code does not mention any specific requirement for footwear when driving, and no legislation has ever been passed to make driving barefoot illegal. Therefore, you are legally allowed to drive barefoot in the state.
This is not just the case in North Dakota. Driving barefoot is legal in all 50 states across the U.S. The belief that wearing shoes while driving is required is simply a myth that has been passed down for generations, but it has no basis in state or federal law.
Why the Myth Persists
So why do so many people believe that driving barefoot is against the law? The misconception likely began as a safety concern. Many driving instructors and parents may have discouraged barefoot driving as a way to promote safer driving habits.
While there is no legal reason to require shoes, experts have often recommended footwear that provides better control, such as tennis shoes or flat-soled shoes.
Some of the confusion may also come from older versions of driver handbooks or safety guidelines that emphasized wearing proper footwear without specifically stating that shoes are mandatory by law. This advice has contributed to the myth that driving barefoot is illegal when, in fact, it is not.
Safety Considerations
Although driving barefoot is legal, safety experts do advise that you wear shoes with good grip and flexibility, such as tennis shoes or flat-soled shoes. Bare feet can sometimes slip off the pedals or fail to provide enough pressure in emergencies, which may impact your control over the vehicle.
However, some authorities even suggest that driving barefoot can be safer than wearing flip-flops or high heels, as these types of shoes can get caught under the pedals or impede your ability to react quickly.
Sources:
1. https://965thewalleye.com/is-it-against-the-law-to-drive-barefoot-in-north-dakota/
2. https://us1033.com/footloose-is-it-legal-to-drive-barefoot-in-north-dakota/
3. https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/26/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-north-dakota-heres-what-law-says/
