No. Maryland does not explicitly prohibit driving without a shirt, but local ordinances and traffic safety laws may impose restrictions. The Maryland State Police and county governments enforce broad public decency standards that could apply to uncovered torsos in vehicles. A 2026 draft proposal by the Maryland General Assembly seeks to clarify these ambiguities by amending §22-403 of the Transportation Article to include attire requirements for motorists.
Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Maryland
- Public Decency Laws: Montgomery County Code §19-11 prohibits “indecent exposure” in public spaces, which courts have interpreted to include bare chests in non-emergency contexts. Baltimore City’s municipal code similarly criminalizes “disorderly conduct” via uncovered torsos in public view.
- Traffic Safety Statutes: Under Maryland Transportation §22-403, drivers must maintain “proper attire” to avoid obstructing vision or creating hazards. Failure to comply may result in a secondary citation if deemed a distraction to other motorists.
- Local Ordinance Variations: Prince George’s County enforces a strict “shirt requirement” for drivers cited under §10-101, while Anne Arundel County relies on discretionary enforcement by state troopers under broader public nuisance statutes.