Navigating Texas highways can be stressful, not to mention time-consuming. Where else can you drive over 10 hours and still be in the state?

Many would prefer to make the journey as comfortable as possible: shoes off and radio on. Safety is a whole other conversation, but first let’s tackle legality.

No. You will not find any mention of it in the official description of it in the list of the Texas Constitution and Statutes. So, you aren’t breaking the law when you slip off your sandals or sneakers. Provisions listed on the website reflect amendments approved by voters through the 89th 2nd Called Legislative Session in November 2025.

The Texas Transportation Code (Sec. 545.401) does say that a person commits an offense if they drive in a “wilful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” It is possible that one could use driving barefoot as proof that this has occurred.

It is not illegal to drive an enclosed cab vehicle while barefoot in any U.S. state.

There is an exception for motorcycle owners and passengers in Alabama, however. The state code (Sec. 32-5A-245) makes it illegal for a person to “operate or ride upon a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle unless he or she is wearing shoes.”

You can, but some law firms, such as Texas-based Wolf Law PLLC., do not recommend it. Managing Attorney Julie Wolf writes in a February 2025 blog post that it can cause distraction, and thus, injury, if you’re bothered by floor debris.

Additionally, if you sweat — and you likely will given the frequent heat in the Lone Star State — you may find it hard to quickly apply enough pressure on the brakes.

“Insurance adjusters often exploit these risks to dispute liability, arguing that barefoot driving shows ‘recklessness,’ even if it played no role in the crash,” Wolf writes. “If you’re found 50% responsible for the accident, your compensation could be reduced by half. Exceed 50%, and you recover nothing.”

The Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Department of Public Safety and Wolf Law did not respond to MySA’s request for comments in time for publication. 

As with most issues, there is a grey area. Sometimes your shoe choice itself can be dangerous. According to GetDriversEd, a U.S. driver education course website, wearing flip-flops puts you at risk because they can get stuck under your pedals.

This puts you in a bad situation if you need to act quickly to avoid a collision. High heels, on the other hand, put your feet in a position at an inclined angle, which can also interrupt a smooth transition from brake to acceleration. 

The company recommends you opt for sneakers with grip, loafers, or flat-soled boots.