Yes, driving without a shirt is legal in Maine under state statutes, provided it does not obstruct safe operation.
Maine’s motor vehicle laws do not explicitly prohibit shirtless driving, but local ordinances and federal safety standards impose indirect restrictions. The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) defers to broader traffic safety regulations enforced by the Maine State Police and municipal authorities. While no statute criminalizes shirtlessness, distracted driving statutes (29-A M.R.S. § 1301) and open-container laws (29-A M.R.S. § 2159) may apply if shirtless driving impairs visibility or control. Recent 2026 compliance guidance from the Maine Department of Public Safety emphasizes that shirtless driving could be cited under reckless operation (29-A M.R.S. § 2075) if deemed hazardous.
Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Maine
- Distracted Driving Prohibitions (29-A M.R.S. § 1301): Shirtless driving may be cited if it distracts the operator or other motorists, particularly in urban areas like Portland or Bangor where enforcement is stricter.
- Reckless Operation (29-A M.R.S. § 2075): Law enforcement may penalize shirtless driving if it endangers public safety, such as in high-traffic zones or during adverse weather conditions.
- Local Ordinances: Some municipalities, including South Portland, have adopted resolutions aligning with federal safety guidelines, allowing citations for shirtless driving deemed “improper attire” under local traffic codes.