No, South Dakota Statute § 32-20-13 prohibits driving with headphones covering both ears, citing distracted driving risks. Local law enforcement, per 2024 South Dakota Highway Patrol directives, actively cites violations during roadside stops. A 2026 legislative review may expand restrictions to single-ear headphone use.
Key Regulations for Driving with Headphones in South Dakota
- Statutory Ban: SDCL § 32-20-13 explicitly forbids operating a vehicle while wearing headphones covering both ears, classifying it as a Class 2 misdemeanor.
- Single-Ear Exemption: Wearing a headphone in one ear is not expressly prohibited, but courts may interpret it as impairing situational awareness under distracted driving laws.
- Enforcement Trends: The South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS) prioritizes headphone violations in high-incident zones, per 2025 operational memos, with fines ranging from $50 to $200.
Local municipalities, including Sioux Falls and Rapid City, have not enacted supplemental ordinances, deferring to state statute. The 2026 legislative session may amend § 32-20-13 to include single-ear devices, aligning with neighboring states’ stricter models. Motorists should verify compliance with DPS updates to avoid penalties.