Driving Laws Have Changed Over Time, so Get Yourself up to Date
Do you think you’re a total road rule expert like you were at 18? Don’t be too sure. Driving laws have quietly evolved over the years. Some have changed to adapt to safety concerns, and others changed just to keep up with the times. From phone use to left-lane lounging, here are 15 road rules that may have changed since you last drove.
Hands-Free Phone Laws
A flip phone cradled in your hand while you're cruising down the road is so last century. Most states now require hands-free devices, and texting while driving is a big no-no. The idea is simple: keep your eyes on the road and your thumbs off the screen, even at a red light.
Stricter Seatbelt Rules
“Click it or ticket” is more than a slogan; it’s the law. Many states now enforce back seat belt use, and some states can pull you over for not buckling up. No more pretending the back seat is a free-for-all.
Substances and Driving
In states that have legalized certain substances, it is still illegal to operate a vehicle under the influence. Law enforcement is cracking down with sobriety tests and blood analysis. It’s treated just like alcohol; just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s safe behind the wheel.
Lower Legal BAC Limits
The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit used to be 0.10% in many states, but today, 0.08% is the national limit, and Utah has gone even lower, with a 0.05% limit. So that one additional drink might now put you in DUI territory.
Updated Child Car Seat Laws
It's not just booster seats these days. Many states require rear-facing car seats until age 2 and have height and weight restrictions beyond that age. If you’re chauffeuring the grandkids, best to check your state’s current rules before hitting the road.
No More Rolling Right Turns on Red (In Some Places)
In many cities, especially busy urban areas, right turns on red are now restricted or outright banned. It’s all about pedestrian safety. So even if it feels like second nature, double-check the signs or risk getting ticketed for an old habit.
Headlights Required in Bad Weather
Many states now require headlights anytime your windshield wipers are on. Rain, fog, snow, it’s not just about visibility for you, but making sure others see you, too. So forget the old “I can see fine” excuse. Flip those lights on.
Move Over Laws Expanded
Originally just for emergency vehicles, “Move Over” laws now apply to tow trucks, utility vehicles, and even disabled cars with their hazards flashing. Failure to move over, or at least slow down, can result in fines.
Tighter Emissions Standards
Environmental regulations have gotten stricter. In some states, if your car can’t meet the new emissions standards, it won’t pass inspection, no matter how well it runs. Older cars, especially, may struggle to keep up, so staying street legal might require an upgrade.
No Headphones While Driving
In many states, driving with headphones or earbuds in both ears is now illegal. It limits your ability to hear emergency vehicles, horns, or anything else important. One earbud might be fine, but two is asking for a ticket.
Harsher Penalties for Passing School Buses
The consequences for ignoring a school bus stop sign are steeper than ever. Many states now use cameras on buses to catch violators, with fines that can be thousands. The message is clear: protecting kids comes before your rush.
Stricter DUI Penalties for First Offenders
Once upon a time, a first DUI might’ve gotten you a slap on the wrist. Not anymore. Many states now require ignition interlock devices, even for first timers. That means blowing into a breathalyzer just to start your car.
Lane Splitting for Motorcycles (Sometimes Legal)
Motorcycles weaving between lanes of slow traffic is now legal in places like California (with conditions). Once considered reckless, it’s now considered a way to reduce congestion. But it’s still illegal in most states, so riders beware.
Digital License Plates and Registration
Some states are now rolling out digital license plates and app-based registration. No more stickers to peel and stick each year. But it also means tech-savvy driving is the new normal. And yes, that plate might even flash a warning if your car’s stolen.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Lane Access Rules
EVs used to be the golden ticket into the carpool lane, even if you were driving solo. But some places are revoking that privilege or requiring updated decals. The rules vary wildly by state, so check before you zip past traffic.
