No, applying makeup while driving in Tennessee is illegal under distracted driving laws, as it impairs a motorist’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-199 prohibits any activity that diverts attention from driving, and local jurisdictions like Nashville and Memphis enforce this through traffic citations. Violations may result in fines up to $50, though penalties could escalate with repeat offenses or accidents.
Key Regulations for Applying Makeup While Driving in Tennessee
- Distracted Driving Statute (T.C.A. § 55-8-199): Prohibits any action that diverts attention from driving, including grooming or applying cosmetics. Law enforcement may cite drivers if makeup application is observed impairing vehicle control.
- Local Enforcement Variations: Cities like Nashville and Memphis prioritize distracted driving crackdowns, with officers issuing citations for visible makeup application behind the wheel. Memphis’ 2024 “Vision Zero” initiative targets such behaviors to reduce traffic fatalities.
- Secondary Offense Status: While not a primary offense, makeup application can be cited if paired with erratic driving (e.g., swerving, delayed reactions). Tennessee’s 2026 compliance updates may reclassify such acts as primary offenses, aligning with AAA recommendations.