This is a safe space. You can admit that you’ve wanted to take off your shoes in the car before. Maybe you even wanted to drive without wearing shoes. But can you legally go barefoot behind the wheel? 

Can you drive without wearing shoes?

This little piggy went to market, while attached to your foot, in the car. But can you legally drive without wearing shoes to give that piggy a taste of open-air freedom?

Yes, you can go barefoot behind the wheel. Driving without wearing shoes is legal in every state in America. From Washington to Florida, you can have your toes out and proud. 

It’s often a misconception or urban legend that driving barefoot is illegal. There are no state laws requiring drivers to wear footwear in their vehicles. That act has been condemned by some legislators, though. 

But just because you can do it, doesn’t mean you should. People may think that driving barefoot is illegal because it can be dangerous. 

It makes it easier for your feet to slip off the pedals. Also, using the accelerator or brake pedals can require more force. Also, friction from the pedals could burn your feet.

Also, if you’re in an accident and the police find that you’ve been driving without any shoes on, then you could be accused of reckless driving. Plus, if you have to get out at an accident scene then your bare feet could be exposed to glass and other sharp debris. 

But in some cases, going barefoot is safer. There are types of shoes like heels, wedges, pumps, and flip-flips that make it harder to drive. These shoes can slide off the pedals, make it uncomfortable, and reduce the feeling of the pedals. 

The best shoes for driving are tight, form-fitting, and comfortable. A pair of tennis shoes can improve control. But, you don’t want the laces to get stuck around the pedals. 

I have a bonus fact that’s related to this topic. For some reason, people think it’s illegal to drive while wearing Crocs, but it’s not! Crocs can provide comfort and control, but they’re slippery when wet.