Is Applying Makeup While Driving Legal in Oklahoma After the 2026 Law Changes?

No, applying makeup while driving in Oklahoma is illegal under the state’s distracted driving statute, which prohibits any activity that diverts attention from the road. While no statute explicitly names makeup application, it falls under the broader prohibition of “manual, visual, or cognitive distraction” per 47 O.S. § 11-901A. Local enforcement, including the Oklahoma City Police Department and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, has cited drivers for similar behaviors under this statute. A 2024 amendment to the Oklahoma Uniform Traffic Code expands definitions of distracted driving to include grooming activities, effective January 1, 2026.

Key Regulations for Applying Makeup While Driving in Oklahoma

  • Distracted Driving Statute (47 O.S. § 11-901A): Prohibits any activity that impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, including manual actions like applying makeup.
  • Oklahoma Uniform Traffic Code (2024 Amendment): Expands the definition of distracted driving to explicitly include grooming behaviors, with enforcement beginning in 2026.
  • Local Enforcement Policies: Municipalities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa prioritize citations for behaviors that obstruct full control of the vehicle, as outlined in their traffic violation guidelines.