No, it is not illegal to drive barefoot in Maryland. The state does not have any law that requires drivers to wear shoes, and police cannot issue a ticket or stop you just because your feet are bare.
What the law actually says
Maryland traffic code does not mention footwear at all, which means there is no specific “barefoot‑driving” offense. Many Maryland‑based attorneys and legal‑aid sites confirm that driving barefoot is fully legal in the state—and in fact, no U.S. state bans barefoot driving for car drivers.
Officers still need a valid traffic violation (like speeding or a broken light) to pull you over; bare feet alone are not grounds for a stop.
When bare feet can cause legal trouble
Even though barefoot driving is not illegal, it can become a legal issue if it appears to contribute to an accident.
If an investigator or jury concludes that being barefoot impaired your control of the vehicle enough to cause or worsen a crash, you could be tagged with negligent or reckless driving, or it could be used to argue comparative fault in a personal‑injury case.
Safety and best‑practice advice
From a safety standpoint, some experts argue that bare feet can slip on pedals or reduce feel and control, especially in wet conditions.
As a practical rule, Maryland drivers are usually advised to wear comfortable, secure footwear that lets them brake and accelerate smoothly, even though the law does not require it
SOURCES :
- https://wgk-law.com/blog/is-it-legal-to-drive-barefoot-in-maryland/
- https://www.mooney4law.com/blog/can-i-drive-without-shoes-in-maryland/
