No, West Virginia law prohibits driving without a shirt under W. Va. Code § 17C-15-29, classifying it as a secondary offense with potential fines up to $100. Local ordinances in municipalities like Charleston and Morgantown may impose stricter penalties, including mandatory citations under municipal codes. The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) enforces these rules as part of broader distracted driving and public decency statutes, with 2026 compliance audits expected to tighten enforcement.
Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in West Virginia
- W. Va. Code § 17C-15-29: Requires drivers to wear a shirt while operating a vehicle, defining violations as secondary offenses subject to fines.
- Municipal Ordinances: Cities such as Charleston (Code § 11-10-12) and Morgantown (Code § 11-10-5) impose additional penalties, including mandatory court appearances for repeat offenders.
- DMV Enforcement: The West Virginia DMV tracks citations under distracted driving protocols, with 2026 audits anticipated to increase random compliance checks.