This might sound like a country song, but there’s a good chance someone’s driving a pickup barefoot down a dusty road somewhere in Oklahoma.
But unlike a country song, this barefoot Bandit won’t be in trouble with Smokey.
Here’s a rundown of how the law treats shoeless drivers in Oklahoma.
State law silent on driving without shoes
There is no Oklahoma state law against requiring a driver to wear shoes or any kind of footwear. In fact, barefoot driving is legal in all 50 states aside from some exceptions like Alabama, where footwear is required on motorcycles.
Oklahoma’s driver manual and commercial vehicle handbook doesn’t mention footwear, either.
The agency that issues driver’s licenses, Service Oklahoma, encourages riders to read the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) motorcycle operator manual.
The MSF recommends wearing protective clothing on a motorcycle, including boots or shoes that are “high and sturdy enough to cover your ankles and give them support.”
Some locations require ATV riders wear shoes
Inside Oklahoma City, all-terrain vehicle drivers and passengers at Lake Stanley Draper or West Elm Creek Reservations must wear protective footwear (and eyewear).
Other jurisdictions might require the use of shoes or boots while riding in offroad vehicles.
Make sure to check all local laws before exposing your toes to the elements.
Should you wear shoes while driving?
There are few, if any, official recommendations from law enforcement or road safety groups about wearing shoes behind the wheel.
Ultimately, driving barefoot is a personal choice.
Drivers are responsible for driving safely, though. If you have trouble operating the pedals without shoes, it’s a good idea to consider lacing up to hit the road.
An expert recently told USA TODAY that while barefoot may feel more comfortable, the practice can be dangerous.
“People need to be aware of the state laws on operating a motor vehicle in the states they’re driving in or through,” said AAA Senior Automotive Manager David Bennett.
USA TODAY reporter Krystal Nurse contributed to this article.
