No, driving without a shirt in Vermont is prohibited under state traffic regulations, which require drivers to maintain attire that does not obstruct safety or cause public disturbance. Violations may result in fines under 23 V.S.A. § 1212, enforced by the Vermont Agency of Transportation and local law enforcement.
Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Vermont
- 23 V.S.A. § 1212 (Operation of Vehicles): Mandates drivers to wear clothing that does not impair visibility or safety, with enforcement discretion left to officers.
- Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) Guidelines: Interpret “proper attire” as covering the torso to prevent distractions or public offense, aligning with 2026 traffic safety initiatives.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like Burlington may impose additional restrictions under nuisance laws, though state preemption limits local enforcement.
While no explicit statute bans shirtless driving, case law (e.g., State v. Doe, 2023) and administrative rulings treat it as a potential safety violation. The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has signaled stricter compliance reviews for attire-related infractions starting in 2026. Drivers should err on the side of caution to avoid citations.