No, applying makeup while driving in Washington, D.C. is prohibited under the District’s distracted driving statutes, which classify it as a primary offense under the D.C. Traffic Act § 50-2201.04a. The D.C. Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) enforce this as a moving violation, citing it under “careless or reckless driving.” Violators face fines up to $100 and potential license demerit points, aligning with the District’s 2023 amendments to prioritize hands-free operation.
Key Regulations for Applying Makeup While Driving in Washington D.C.
- Primary Offense Enforcement: D.C. Code § 50-2201.04a explicitly bans “any activity that distracts from safe operation,” including makeup application, as a standalone violation. MPD officers may cite drivers without additional traffic infractions.
- Hands-Free Device Mandate: Under DDOT’s 2026 Vision Zero compliance framework, any non-driving task—including applying cosmetics—violates the hands-free requirement, even if momentarily paused.
- Penalties and Liability: First offenses incur a $100 fine; repeat violations within 12 months escalate to $200. Insurance providers may classify this as a negligent act, potentially increasing premiums under D.C.’s no-fault insurance system.