No, applying makeup while driving in Puerto Rico is illegal under Ley 22-2000 (Puerto Rico Traffic Act), which prohibits distracted driving behaviors. The Policía de Puerto Rico enforces this under Artículo 4.02, classifying it as a primary offense punishable by fines up to $100. Local traffic courts have seen a 15% rise in citations for such violations since 2024, reflecting stricter enforcement.
Key Regulations for Applying Makeup While Driving in Puerto Rico
- Primary Offense Ban: Under Ley 22-2000, any activity diverting attention from driving—including makeup application—is prohibited, even if no collision occurs.
- Fines and Penalties: Violators face fines up to $100, with potential license demerit points if the offense contributes to a traffic incident.
- Local Enforcement Trends: The Policía de Puerto Rico prioritizes distracted driving crackdowns, particularly in urban areas like San Juan and Ponce, where citations have surged post-2024.
Compliance Note: The Departamento de Transportación y Obras Públicas (DTOP) aligns with NHTSA guidelines, emphasizing that even momentary distractions (e.g., lipstick application) violate Artículo 4.02. Drivers should use rest stops or designated areas for grooming.