No, driving without a shirt in Massachusetts is not explicitly prohibited by state statute, but local ordinances and traffic safety regulations may impose restrictions. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) enforces vehicle equipment standards under 540 CMR 21.00, which prioritizes visibility and operational safety. While no law explicitly bans shirtless driving, municipalities like Boston and Cambridge have enacted public decency ordinances that could be interpreted to apply to vehicle occupants. Courts have not definitively ruled on this intersection, leaving ambiguity for enforcement.
Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Massachusetts
- Public Decency Ordinances: Local municipal codes (e.g., Boston Municipal Code § 12-13) prohibit indecent exposure in public spaces, which may extend to vehicle occupants in densely populated areas. Violations could result in fines up to $300 under local enforcement.
- Vehicle Equipment Standards (540 CMR 21.00): The RMV requires vehicles to be operated in a manner that does not obstruct the driver’s view or impede safe operation. Shirtless driving may be cited if it distracts other drivers or violates seatbelt laws (MGL c.90, § 13A).
- Distracted Driving Provisions (MGL c.90, § 13B): Operating a vehicle while engaging in conduct that diverts attention from driving—including adjusting clothing—can lead to citations. Shirtless driving may be deemed a secondary offense if it contributes to unsafe conditions.
Enforcement remains inconsistent, with police discretion playing a significant role. For compliance, drivers should consider local norms and avoid shirtless operation in urban or high-traffic zones. The RMV has not signaled plans to amend regulations by 2026, but municipal updates could emerge.