No, driving barefoot in India is not explicitly prohibited under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, but it violates Rule 100 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, which mandates “proper footwear” for drivers. State traffic police enforce this discretionarily, with fines up to ₹500 under Section 177 for “dangerous driving” if barefoot operation impairs control. The 2026 draft amendments propose stricter penalties, including mandatory footwear sensors in new vehicles.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in India
- Rule 100 (CMVR 1989): Requires drivers to wear “footwear that does not interfere with pedal operation,” interpreted as closed-toe shoes by enforcement agencies.
- Section 177 (MVA 1988): Classifies barefoot driving as “careless or dangerous,” punishable with fines up to ₹500 or license suspension for repeat offenses.
- State-Specific Enforcement: Delhi Traffic Police and Mumbai Traffic Police actively penalize barefoot drivers under local traffic rules, citing “distraction” or “lack of control” as grounds.
Local authorities in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have issued circulars (2024) warning against barefoot driving, citing accident data linking it to pedal misapplication. The 2026 Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill may codify this as a non-compoundable offense. Insurance claims for accidents involving barefoot drivers are routinely rejected by insurers for “negligent driving.”