Is Driving Without a Shirt Legal in Nebraska After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

No, driving without a shirt in Nebraska is prohibited under state traffic regulations, as it constitutes a violation of public decency and safety standards enforced by the Nebraska State Patrol and local law enforcement. Violations may result in citations under §60-6,213 of the Nebraska Uniform Traffic Code, with penalties escalating in 2026 under proposed amendments targeting distracted and improperly attired drivers.

Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Nebraska

  • Nebraska Revised Statute §60-6,213 explicitly requires drivers to maintain attire that does not obstruct visibility or endanger public safety, implicitly barring shirtless driving as a form of improper dress.
  • Local Ordinance Enforcement: Municipalities like Omaha and Lincoln may impose additional fines up to $200 under municipal codes, with 2026 revisions expanding penalties for “distracting attire” under traffic safety ordinances.
  • Commercial Vehicle Exclusions: CDL holders face stricter scrutiny per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration guidelines, where shirtless driving may trigger roadside inspections or fleet compliance violations.

Nebraska’s traffic statutes derive authority from the Nebraska Department of Transportation’s 2024 Safety Action Plan, which prioritizes reducing driver distractions. Courts have consistently upheld shirtless driving citations as valid under public decency precedents, though enforcement varies by jurisdiction. Legal challenges in 2025 have yet to overturn the statute, reinforcing its standing in 2026 compliance frameworks.